KNOTTED ROOTS

KNOTTED ROOTS

Allow me to re-introduce myself, my name is Rich

… but most people just call me Chef.I’m a Calgary born & raised chef and entrepreneur who’s been in the game for a while — from grinding it out in local pubs to opening some pretty memorable restaurants (and everything in between).

You might not know it, but there’s a good chance I’ve cooked or catered some of your favorite meals out in this awesome city.

After more than 20 years in the industry, I’m all about shaking things up. These days, I’m into hospitality consulting, leadership coaching, and teaming up with cool people to do things a little differently. I’m big on building culture, creating great vibes, and making sure we all have a good time doing it. Whether I’m leading a project or jumping in to support one, I’m here to raise the bar — and have some fun along the way.I decided to seize the opportunity to share my skill and expertise on a more personal level.

Knotted Roots: Our Story, Our Flavor

At Knotted Roots, we honor the deep, complex, and beautiful heritage of Afro-Caribbean culture — one plate at a time.

Our name speaks to the intertwined history of our people: African ancestry carried across oceans, shaped by struggle, survival, and resilience. These “knotted roots” tell a story of displacement and resistance, but also of strength, celebration, and deep cultural pride. They are the foundation of the vibrant flavors, rich traditions, and soul-satisfying dishes we bring to every table.

Food is our way of keeping those roots alive. We specialize in Afro-Caribbean cuisine that reflects our heritage — bold, honest, and unapologetically flavorful. Every dish is a tribute to where we come from and a celebration of where we’re going.

At Knotted Roots, we’re not just serving food — we’re telling a story, building community, and feeding the spirit.

What’s Cooking Beneath the Surface….

Collaborations

At Knotted Roots, I’m always looking to connect with brands, events, and initiatives that share the same love for culture, community, and creativity. When there’s trust, passion, and purpose, there’s no limit to what we can build together. I believe in meaningful partnerships that grow over time — bringing fresh, soulful, and unforgettable offerings to the table. If you're planning an event or initiative and looking for a chef who brings flavour, energy, and authenticity — I’d love to hear more.

Private Chef & In Home Dining

Cooking is more than just food — it’s about creating connection, comfort, and unforgettable moments. There’s nothing I enjoy more than bringing that experience directly into your home, where the energy is personal and the vibes are real.

Let me design a one-of-a-kind dining experience for your next dinner party, crafted with care, soul, and the finest ingredients — all rooted in flavour, culture, and intention.

From setup to cleanup, I take care of it all — so you and your guests can be fully present, sharing stories, laughs, and a meal you’ll remember long after the plates are cleared.

Pop Ups

Currently blessed with the opportunity to showcase my passion at Shelter Cocktail Lounge, where I bring bold flavors to some unique small and sharing plates for the vibrant crowd — but Knotted Roots is always on the lookout for new spaces to host pop-up experiences. Whether it’s a cozy café, a creative venue, or a community-focused space, I’m always open to checking out spots that align with the energy and spirit of Knotted Roots. If you’ve got a location that could be the next pop-up home, let’s connect!