"It was the first year for the restaurant so it was exciting and a huge learning curve. The setting is amazing and attracts visitors on it's own merit. We managed to create a menu suited perfectly to the atmosphere and something that wasn't being done anywhere else in the region."

Justin Lesso - Chef de Cuisine

Justin Lesso is a graduate of the Niagara College Culinary Program. Upon graduating Justin began working immediately in the industry accepting a position at The Coach House by Erik Peacock, located at Henry of Pelham Winery in St. Catharines.

"It was the first year for the restaurant so it was exciting and a huge learning curve. The setting is amazing and attracts visitors on it's own merit. We managed to create a menu suited perfectly to the atmosphere and something that wasn't being done anywhere else in the region."

Justin eventually managed the Coach House Café helping to train new staff. At the same time Justin worked in the catering division at Wellington Court Restaurant + Catering.

After two and a half years his thirst for knowledge and experience motivated Justin to leave Wellington Court and travel to Ireland. There he worked at the Four Seasons Hotel. After a successful run at this exclusive property he moved to London, England to the Connaught Hotel. Looking to maximize his experience in the UK before returning to Canada, Justin took a placement at La Trompette in Chiswick. At La Trompette the food was predominantly French, with strong roots in the regional cooking of the South and South West. Charcuterie, confits and foie gras dishes help to define the restaurant's style. Justin gained experience at every station, including pastry.

In September 2010 Justin returned to Canada. Erik Peacock Chef/Owner of Wellington Court Restaurant & Catering quickly moved in offering Justin a position in the kitchen.

"We were thrilled with Justin before he left I knew if he was going to be back in the region I wanted him to work within our team. He has learned a tremendous amount working in these kitchens. He brings a great deal of natural and learned talent to the table. I am excited to have him in the kitchen with me."

In March of 2011 Justin accepted the position of Chef de Cuisine at Wellington Court Restaurant + Catering.