Join us inside L'OCA Labs for an informative session with Mike Yates from Trafford Farms, a family-run urban operation that grows gourmet mushrooms right here in Alberta. Unlike produce that travels hundreds or thousands of kilometres, Trafford Farms' mushrooms arrive at L'OCA within 24 hours of harvest.

Mike will share the story behind mushroom cultivation, from the unique challenges of growing these delicate fungi in Alberta's climate to the controlled-environment methods that eliminate the need for pesticides and herbicides.

While Mike shares his expertise, Chef Fabricio will be cooking up some light bites featuring mushrooms from Trafford Farms:

• Piopino Mushroom Crostini with Jersey butter, goat brie, buckwheat honey on L'OCA sourdough
• Chestnut Rigatoni alla Boscaiola made with chestnut mushrooms, pancetta, San Marzano tomatoes, thyme, and Pecorino Romano
• Charcoal Grilled Lion's Mane mushrooms with a maple and soy glaze, served with Thai slaw and ponzu sauce
• Pink & Blue Oyster Mushroom Salad with baby Swiss chard, pine nuts, and Jerez vinaigrette