Robert Rainford

BIOGRAPHY

Robert Rainford (born November 30, 1966, in Saint Andrew Parish, Jamaica) is a professionally-trained Canadian chef, bestselling cookbook author, and celebrated television personality. Raised in downtown Toronto after moving to Canada at age three, Rob grew up immersed in the aromas and energy of a family that took food seriously. A knee injury that ended his promising basketball career led to his pivotal 1994 'aha moment', when a conversation with his older brother redirected him toward cooking, and he enrolled at the renowned George Brown College culinary program.

Upon graduation, Chef Rainford built his professional pedigree at some of Toronto's finest establishments, including Accolade/Crown Plaza and the celebrated Senses Restaurant & Bar alongside Chef Ned Bell. His trajectory took a defining turn when he became the host of Licence to Grill on Food Network Canada, a show broadcast in over 52 markets worldwide, including the United States, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Romania, and the UAE. Known for his signature line 'look at those beautiful char marks!', Rob turned backyard grilling into an art form that resonated with millions. He later served as Kitchen Commander on CBC's Recipe to Riches.

In 2012, Chef Rainford released his bestselling cookbook Rob Rainford's Born to Grill through Penguin Random House, an instant classic that inspired both home cooks and culinary professionals. He has done brand campaigns for Starbucks, Ziploc, Frigidaire, Weber, George Foreman, and Corona Beer, and today serves as a chef instructor at George Brown College's Continuing Education Program.

As Celebrity Chef Partner at Sixty67 Group, Chef Rob brings his world-class culinary artistry, magnetic presence, and deep passion for food to every catering event, live demonstration, and corporate engagement, elevating meals into unforgettable experiences.