TORONTO — The Pine, located in Creemore, Ont. and led by George Brown College (GBC) alumni Jeremy and Cassie Austin, has been awarded a prestigious Michelin star.
The restaurant received one of only four stars awarded this year by the MICHELIN Guide. This recognition elevates the husband-and-wife team to the ranks of the global culinary elite, marking a significant milestone in their careers and for the college’s culinary programs. Known for its contemporary Chinese cuisine, The Pine features a 17-course tasting menu inspired by the couple’s extensive work and travel experiences in China.
Partners in both life and cuisine for 16 years, the Austins began their journey at GBC when Jeremy enrolled in the Culinary Arts Italian program and Cassie pursued Food and Beverage Management. Post-graduation, the couple honed their craft internationally, working in Italy, Wuxi, Hong Kong and Shanghai.
“Attending GBC was the most important thing I’ve done in my life,” says Jeremy Austin. “The connections and skills I gained there introduced me to the industry. The program offers critical hands-on experience and crucial industry connections with its internationally renowned teaching roster.”
The Pine’s farm-to-table philosophy is driven by Cassie Austin’s family farm, where the couple sources heirloom vegetables and microgreens.
“Jeremy and Cassie embody the skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit we strive to instill in our students, and their success is an inspiration to current and future culinary and hospitality students,” says Rudi Fischbacher, Dean of George Brown’s Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts.
