Edible British Columbia is the province’s largest culinary tourism operator dedicated to providing both locals and visitors unique ways to experience the best of BC’s food and wine culture.

Founded in February 2005 by native Vancouverite, Eric Pateman, the company has evolved from its initial beginnings as a Web-based culinary concierge company modeled after Edible Paris. The company was initially expected to be a sideline business to Mr. Pateman’s hospitality consulting practice, but within months of launching the website, the company had hired its first employees.

“In the nearly three years since I launched Edible BC, it has grown to encompass more than culinary concierge services,” says Pateman/ “We now offer chef-guided market tours, gourmet kayaking adventures, Okanagan Audi driving adventures, cooking classes, Chef for a Day programs, and the flagship retail location located in the heart of Granville Island Public Market.” Due to all of this amazing growth, the company now includes up to nine part-time and full-time employees as well as two business partners.

Eric Pateman sold a 50 per cent interest in the company to long-time friend and schoolmate Cecilia Leong in May 2006 when he decided to open the retail arm in Granville Island. “Cecilia is a trained pastry chef with passion for the food science side of the business,” says Pateman, “While my training focused on classic French techniques and business school.”

Edible BC has forged strong relationships in the community through their support of local charity events as well their work with many great businesses and personalities. Right from its inception, Edible BC and its 650 unique local artisan food products found the “Get Local” program a natural fit with the shared philosophy of local, sustainable food choices.