Ushering in a New Culinary Era with the Appointment of Executive Chef Leroy Borrega
Internationally acclaimed chef brings a globally inspired, locally rooted vision to one of British Columbia’s most celebrated dining destinations
Sooke, British Columbia, Canada, September 14, 2026 – Sooke Harbour House today announced the appointment of Executive Chef Leroy Borrega, marking the beginning of an exciting new era for the culinary program at the iconic west coast Vancouver Island hotel and restaurant.
A Canadian Red Seal Chef and the recipient of numerous culinary competition awards, Chef Borrega has an extensive international résumé spanning Canada, Australia, the United States, China, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Philippines. Most recently, he served as Executive Chef of The Dorian, Autograph Collection—the Michelin Key hotel in Calgary—where he oversaw multiple restaurants, banquet operations, and large culinary teams.
Previously, Chef Borrega led the kitchens at Shokunin, contributing to the acclaimed eatery’s recognition among Canada’s Top 100 Restaurants and helping secure Avenue Magazine’s Best Restaurant in Calgary award for three consecutive years. He has also collaborated alongside Michelin-starred chefs and culinary leaders from The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, experiences that have shaped his refined yet deeply personal culinary style. As Head Chef of Maven, he launched Calgary’s first Filipino omakase restaurant, introducing guests to a contemporary tasting-menu experience that celebrated the richness of Filipino cuisine.
Under Chef Borrega’s leadership, the restaurant at Sooke Harbour House will build on an illustrious culinary legacy with a renewed focus on hyper-local ingredients, thoughtful gastronomic storytelling, and refined contemporary cuisine inspired by the property’s coastal location and the creative offerings of local growers, fishers and provisioners. His menus will showcase the exceptional bounty of Vancouver Island from sustainably harvested seafood and locally raised meats to seasonal produce, wild herbs, and foraged ingredients. The new Sooke Harbour House menu is BC-focused with a mix of elevated seafood, rich comfort food, and some creative Asian influencesfeaturing locally-sourced ingredients from 63 Acres, ALM Organic Farm, Finny Farms, InishOge Farm, and other provisioners.
“Exceptional food begins with exceptional ingredients, genuine relationships, and a deep respect for place,” said Chef Borrega. “Sooke Harbour House has long been a pioneer in showcasing the incredible abundance of this region. It’s an honour to continue that tradition while creating menus that reflect both the landscape around us and the experiences I’ve gathered throughout my journey as a chef.”
“The launch of the new culinary program directed by Chef Borrega signals a renewed commitment to delivering unforgettable dining experiences rooted in craftsmanship and sustainability,” said Sooke Harbour House General Manager Danielle Carriere. “Guests can expect seasonal tasting menus and thoughtfully composed à la carte offerings that celebrate both the heritage and future of one of British Columbia’s most iconic culinary destinations. Dining at Sooke Harbour House is more than a meal, it’s a reflection of the surrounding landscape, crafted to create memorable experiences that connect guests to the food, the people, and the place.”
About Sooke Harbour House
Sooke Harbour House, one of British Columbia’s most iconic coastal retreats, is celebrated for its intimate hospitality, culinary legacy, and deep connection to the tranquility and natural beauty of Vancouver Island’s west coast. Nestled along the shores of the Salish Sea, the inn features 28 individually designed rooms, each with an ocean view, that blend classic charm with modern luxury. Long-recognized as a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement in Canada, Sooke Harbour House champions locally sourced ingredients, regional wines, and sustainable culinary practices. Today, Sooke Harbour House enters a fresh chapter under vibrant new ownership and management, honouring its heritage while reimagining a favoured experience for travellers and locals seeking authentic coastal luxury, exceptional dining, and meaningful connections to place.
The Sooke Harbour House Restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
1528 Whiffin Spit Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0T4 | (778) 425-9000
Media Contact:
Shawna Gardham, SGPR Connects for Sooke Harbour House
shawna@sgprconnects.com p: 604.928.5013