GUELPH, Ont. — Celebrity chef Michael Smith will lead the keynote address at a one-day foodservice seminar announced by the Guelph Food Technology Centre in partnership with Maple Leaf Foods, Inc.

The event, themed Leading Innovation: The Art and Science of Food, will be held at the new Maple Leaf ThinkFOOD! Centre in Mississauga, Ont., on Oct. 19.

Smith, who will discuss emerging global food trends, will be joined by speakers and guest panellists who will examine sodium reduction, the health-conscious consumer, sustainable foods and more.

TORONTO — Chef Scott Conant’s first Canadian location of Scarpetta is set to open today, July 22, in the ritzy new hotel Thompson Toronto.

Conant took a moment to introduce himself and his concept in a recent open letter to the city that was posted on The Huffington Post. And, although foodies are already bemoaning his so-called condescending chatter, many are still excited about the new branch of his popular Italian eatery that originally debuted in New York City.

MONTREAL — This summer will see more than 1,000 underprivileged children in Montreal nurturing their souls at camp while nourishing their stomachs with free lunches being offered from June 28 to August 20 by Sodexo, in partnership with Moisson Montréal food bank.

"I have received a healthy meal every lunch-time during my day camp for three years. I am happy because I have the energy all day long to play and learn new things from the counsellors," explains 10-year-old Laura L'Africain.

TORONTO — With Toronto's Summerlicious in full swing until July 25, the perks continue to roll in. Now, diners who order the French lager Kronenbourg 1664 during the special prix-fixe event may be eligible to win an invite to a private “soiree” in a secret location.

The mysterious event, aptly titled Brasserie Mystere, is set to take place Aug. 5. Lucky Kronenbourg drinkers who attend can expect to be served upscale French cuisine by renowned chefs, paired with the beverage in question.