About Us

 The Ainslie is a family operation involving 3 generations. 

 

The name of the restaurant, we wanted to be personal and family oriented, therefore the inspiration was a no brainer. We decided to name the restaurant after our son David Ainslie. Part of our dream is to have our son grow up in the restaurant with us.

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Chef Ian Blom and wife Kimberly met in Culinary school and had a dream to open a restaurant one day. With the help of family and friends, and Ian's mother, Heather, who is also and owner and from the Cowichan Valley, we were able to make that dream a reality.

 

Chef Blom, who was born and raised in the Cowichan valley always took for granted how beautiful the Cowichan region is with its endless outdoor activities.

 

 "We have multiple rivers, the ocean is a short drive in almost any direction, there are unbelievable trees and forests and a plethora of amazing organic farms, wineries, distilleries and artisan producers. As a chef I would not want to be anywhere else." 

 

Chefs in the Cowichan Valley are just starting to scratch the surface of what can be done with all these amazing products at our fingertips. We hope to be on the leading edge for our future culinary scene.