MasterChef Canada’s Andy Hay uses East Coast Kitchen fame to give back

Andy Hay is hosting a culinary fundraiser in Nova Scotia this spring.

Many Canadians were first introduced to Andy Hay on MasterChef Canada, but it was during the pandemic that he truly found his audience.

“I just kind of, as a joke, used my phone and said, ‘Welcome to the quarantine kitchen,’” Hay said in an interview with CTV Atlantic’s Katie Kelly. “That decision itself was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. So, it’s been unbelievable.”

His focus is on accessible, no-fuss recipes.

“It’s all about approachable recipes for home cooks. I don’t want to use too many ingredients. I just want people to be able to enjoy the process of cooking,” said Hay.

Hay says his East Coast roots have remained central to his work.

“I love being from Atlantic Canada, learning more about our food culture and the ingredients we have here. It just became part of me… part of the brand.”

That pride will soon take him back to television screens this spring with Andy’s East Coast Kitchen Crawl on the Food Network, a series exploring food and communities across the region.

“It’s an exploration of all things East Coast. It’s easy watching, and I think it’s going to make East Coasters really proud,” said Hay.

Beyond television, Hay is also using his platform to give back. This April, he’ll serve as emcee of the Chefs for UNICEF Gala in Nova Scotia – one of the province’s most impactful culinary fundraisers.

“For the last 70 years, UNICEF Canada has been providing humanitarian assistance to children in 190 countries and territories around the world, and here in Canada as well,” said Colleen Robbins, co-chair of the Chefs for UNICEF Gala.

The gala brings together some of Nova Scotia’s top chefs, restaurateurs and community leaders.

“It’s fun. It’s a really good time. Every year we’ve elevated the experience. You get to mingle, have cocktails and wine, and try some of the best food in Nova Scotia,” said Robbins.

Hay says the event is a natural fit.

“My goal is to keep vibes high and make sure people are having a good time - so I think I’ve got that. Food is everything to me. It’s how I show love and support, and I know the power of food.”

The 34th Annual Chefs for UNICEF Gala is on April 21 at the Halifax Convention Centre.