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Our Story

Step Into the Foundry 1872, where warmth, flavour, and family intertwine.

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Rick Nurse

Our Chef

Meet Rick Nurse Chef/ Owner of The Foundry, With a career spanning over three decades, marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for the art of cooking. Rick's journey in the culinary world has been nothing short of extraordinary, earning him the prestigious title of World Certified Master Chef.

Rick began over 30 years ago, where he honed his skills in the demanding and dynamic world of professional kitchens. His dedication to mastering the craft led him to work in various culinary settings, ranging from renowned hotels and convention centres as well as The John Labatt Centre where he prepared meals for such artists as The Tragically Hip, Cher, Shania Twain, Guns and Roses, David Bowe, Willie Nelson, Dirks Bentley, Blue Rodeo, the list goes on.

Rick is a devoted family man to his wife and 2 boys, he enjoys time spent together, whether it's sharing a meal, attending hockey games, or simply enjoying quality downtime.

Embracing a new chapter in his culinary journey, Rick made a significant decision to relocate his family to his wife's hometown. This move not only marked a change in scenery but also a profound shift in Rick's culinary philosophy. Rick's commitment to sourcing local ingredients and collaborating with local businesses reflect not only his culinary expertise but also a genuine desire to contribute to the community. The restaurant will become a hub for locals, offering not just exceptional food but also a welcoming space where neighbors gather for delicious meals, celebrate milestones, and foster a sense of togetherness.

The Nurse Family

The Nurse Family standing next to each other on a beach.

Meet Nancy.

Nancy's roots in Durham laid the foundation for our culinary journey. Nancy was born and raised in Durham before moving to London to pursue her career in Early Childhood Education. London is where Nancy met Rick, and a new journey began. Nancy became a devoted stay-at-home mom, raising their two boys and becoming a huge advocate for children with special needs. Once the boys were older, she donned another hat as an Event Planner, specialising in fundraising, where she successfully raised thousands of dollars for local charities and families in need. Armed with this wealth of experience, she eagerly extends her expertise to help you plan your perfect event in our 115-person private event room.

Meet Rick.

Chef Rick Nurse is the creative force behind the Foundry 1872. Rick brings over 30 years of culinary experience, with distinguished qualifications. His culinary influence spans from diverse settings, including restaurants, hotels, convention centres, and entertainment facilities. Notably, he recently earned the title of World Certified Master Chef, showcasing his commitment to culinary excellence.

Meet the Boys.

Carter lives and breathes hockey. Whether he's glued to the TV, analysing plays, or out on the ice with his sled, the rink is his sanctuary. His passion for the game infuses The Foundry 1872 with energy and determination. Caiden, is a sports aficionado. Basketball and hockey hold a special place in his heart. When he's not shooting hoops or chasing pucks, he's bonding with new friends over video games and mini hoops basketball. His zest for life adds a youthful spark to our family-run restaurant.

Our culinary adventure isn't just a restaurant; it's an extension of our family - a place that blends tradition with innovation. The menu is a testament to our love for hearty meals, locally sourced ingredients, and the joy of creating meals for our guests.

Come share a meal, swap stories, and become part of our extended family. The Foundry 1872 is more than a hot spot; it's a place where memories are forged, laughter echoes, and flavours linger. We can't wait to welcome you!

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