Haïti, 1987
The beginning
Jacmel
Paul Harry Toussaint was born in 1987 in Jacmel, Haiti’s artistic epicenter. He later moved to Montreal, Canada, to complete his college education and enroll in law school, as he was expected to become a lawyer. Realizing it was not his calling, he dropped out only to graduate a few years later, top of his class, from culinary studies at Montreal’s LaSalle College.
This major achievement opened doors for the up-and-coming chef. Paul gained experience in some of the city’s best kitchens, including that of the famed and favourite Toqué!. He remained there for two years, during which he honed his culinary skills, and in 2012, he was involved in the drafting of the restaurant’s coveted cookbook, Toqué! Creators of a new Quebec gastronomy.
Haiti, 2013
The first venture
Port-au-Prince
In 2013, chef Paul returned to Haiti to share his passion for cooking with young culinary students. He taught at École Hôtelière and provided culinary training and lectures at the French Institute in Haiti. Chef Paul gained notoriety amongst his peers and was sought out to provide culinary consultation for some of Haiti’s well-known hospitality establishments. A year later, chef Paul was called upon to join one of Haiti’s most anticipated restaurants, Asú. Located at the Karibe Hotel, Asú Rooftop Lounge exhibits one of the country’s most innovative and modern culinary concepts. As its executive chef, Paul was able to develop his unique signature style, and he quickly built an indelible legacy.
Canada, 2017
A new challenge
MontrEal
Chef Paul returned to Canada in 2017, where he joined the team at Agrikol restaurant as executive chef. A favourite of locals and international celebrities alike, Agrikol is a celebration of Haitian gastronomy and an homage to its rich culture. Pursuing his quest to showcase the epicurean jewels of his home country, he joined some of Montreal’s most renowned chefs at the city’s new Time Out Market, in November, 2019.