Elliot Faber's story starts in the most unlikely of places. The relatively sleepy Canadian city of Calgary is known more for its cowboys, oil industry, and annual Calgary Stampede than for any sort of old world heritage of wine and spirits. But a thirst for travel and a desire to see the world would catalyze Elliot's long journey as a somelier, beverage director and the title of Sake Samurai.

Production by MAEKAN & Sunday's Grocery
Hosted by Eugene Kan
Photography by Fung Siu Yan

See the whole story here.

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Fernet Hunter is a modern take on a classic Italian bitter. A delicate blend of Arnica, Orris Root, Lavender, it owes its unique flavors to the forest and nearby Austrian town of Brunnwald. The creation of Raphael Holzer and Neville Kotewall, its recipe dates back to the early 1900’s with Raphael’s great grandfather, Oskar Holzer.

Generations later, Raphael is continuing the family tradition and introducing the spirit to a new crowd with cocktails that complement it fresh hand-picked botanical ingredients.

In this third episode of Grilling Me Softly, Iris chats with Raph about Fernet and his journey from working hospitality to becoming an entrepreneur in the craft spirits world.

Production by MAEKAN & Sunday's Grocery

In this second episode of Grilling Me Softly, Iris Van Kerckhove sits down with high school friend, Jonathan Jay Lee.

Jon’s inspirations revolved around Marvel comics growing up. His passion followed him from the States to Hong Kong, where he moved in 1992. But after a period of dormancy, the dream of becoming an illustrator would return after some encouragement from a teacher.

Production by MAEKAN & Sunday's Grocery
Hosted by Iris Van Kerckhove
Photography by Justine Tai

See the whole story here.

What is MAEKAN?

MAEKAN

We’re happy to introduce our inaugural series in partnership with Sunday’s Grocery, titled Grilling Me Softly. Food plays an important role in our cultural landscape and we’re excited to dive deep into some of the interesting and influential figures creating a meaningful impact in the space.

In our first episode, we highlight Janice Leung Hayes.

Production by MAEKAN & Sunday's Grocery
Hosted by Iris Van Kerckhove
Photography by Justine Tai

See the whole story here.

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