-Hey Renee! Introduce yourself... What's your name? What's your biz name?

I'm Renee Girard, and I'm the owner and chef behind Shirley's, which is a restaurant and cocktail bar.

-What do you make/create/do?

I run a restaurant and make food. My restaurant is cozy and intimate and familiar. Just the way I want it to be.

-What is the inspiration behind your work?

The food I make and the way I make it, is inspired by growing up on my family's farm. Shirley is the name of my grandma, which is a direct nod to this inspiration.

-What is one thing that is different about the work that you create, compared to others in your field?

Shirley's is based on the family foundations that I grew up with, but it ended up being a great foundation for a space that other people want to spend time at.. with cocktails and comfort food.

I'm also very focused on using seasonal produce, and myself and my team put a lot of care into everything we make.

-What is a dream project/opportunity that you hope to get to do one day?

I'm living my dream project. (-Aw!)

-Take this opportunity to tell us about another local artist/creator that you love... Who is putting out cool shit that keeps you inspired and excited?

Chloe and Andy at Synonym . They are amazing.

ALSO, a HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Renee and the rest of the staff at Shirley's, for being a longlist finalist for Air Canada's "50 Best New Restaurants in Canada"? Read about it here.

Do yourself a favour and check out Shirley's. Whether for a cozy dinner, or a drink and a snack up at the bar... you won't regret it.

Would you like to purchase Renee's lenscloth? It will be available to purchase at our launch party on October 23 from 6-9pm and in the online shop on Friday, October 24.

Renee wears her Theo frame from G.

Lenscloth design by Courtney at Buffet.