Well neither do we, and we think that's a problem. Grape Expectations presents wine and food in a light-hearted, entertaining manner and strives to make sure all of our guests leave with the knowledge and confidence to select and enjoy wine, cook gourmet meals, and discover the secret of life… okay, so we might be exaggerating on that last one, but only a little.
Grape Expectations is owned and operated by Nick “the wine guy” Hender... What? People call him that... really.
Nick LOVES wine and food, and I'm not talking about the way you love your pet hamster or the way your Mom loves you... even if you didn't go to law school. I'm talking 24/7, unconditional, till the end of time, mythological type of love. And he shares that with everyone he meets.
His love of food started at a young age, thanks to dear old dad. Eventually, Nick followed his love to culinary school. At Liaison College of Culinary Arts in Kingston, Ontario, he completed both Cook-Basic, and Cook-Advanced diplomas during 2001-2002.
Throughout this time Nicholas gained experience in the restaurant industry, working nights at a busy restaurant in downtown Kingston, while attending school during the day. Eventually, after a move to Ottawa, he graduated with honours from Algonquin College, receiving the prestigious Sommelier Diploma, well recognized in the wine world.
After five years of professional cooking in Ottawa, Nick had acquired enough experience to complete the examinations for the Interprovincial Red Seal, the nationally recognized trade papers which certified him as a professional Chef.
Nick has now returned home to share his love of food and wine and his expertise, having worked in a variety of kitchens ranging from industrial cooking and pubs, to fine dining. This includes his most recent stint as a chef at Bianca's, one of St. John's' finest dining establishments.
Nick has experience in a wide variety of cooking styles, including Mexican, classical French, nouvelle cuisine, Asian fusion, Mediterranean, Irish, and of course traditional Newfoundland. This has made him an extremely versatile chef and knowledgeable sommelier.