Owner Profiles

	Chef Owner Norman Aitken
	Norman Aitken was born in the small town of Souris and raised in Bay Fortune, Prince Edward Island, Canada. At 14, working under the guidance of Chef Michael Smith, of the food network, he began his apprenticeship in the kitchen at the Inn At Bay Fortune. From his experience working with Michael Smith, Norman developed a profound understanding and respect for local, fresh ingredients. Norman attended the Culinary Institute of Canada. Following his graduation from the Culinary Institute of Canada and years of experience at the Inn at Bay Fortune and other local restaurants, Norman move to Ottawa to take the position of Sous Chef at Juniper Kitchen and Wine Bar, working with Chef Richard Nigro. After three years at Juniper, Norman went to work in Ireland as the Chef of the award winning Delphi Resort and Spa in County Mayo with a handpicked Canadian brigade. Upon returning to Canada Norman became part owner of Juniper Kitchen and Wine Bar with Richard Nigro. With Juniper having two chef /owners there is a drive to creating a distinctive regional and seasonal New Canadian Cuisine. In reviews, Juniper has been critically acclaimed as one of Ottawa’s top tables.

	Chef Owner Peter Robblee
	Peter Robblee was born and raised in Ottawa, but began his restaurant career in Toronto at the age of 19 when he was hired as a dishwasher. He experienced his first taste of fine dining when he landed a job as garde manger at the popular Oliver & Bonacini restaurant, Jump. Peter moved back to Ottawa in 2000 and was hired, for the first time at Juniper Kitchen and Wine Bar. In 2003, Peter travelled with his friend and fellow chef Norm Aitken to Ireland, where they joined the crew at the award winning Delphi Resort and Spa. Peter was inspired and challenged by the menu, which changed daily and focused on seasonal and local ingredients. Upon his return to Canada, Peter decided to enroll at the Culinary Institute of Canada in Prince Edward Island. As part of his education, he worked for six months in New Zealand at Mudbrick Vineyard. After graduation, Peter has hired once again at Juniper, where Norm Aitken had since joined as chef/owner. He welcomed an increase in responsibilities when the restaurant moved to its new location, and in 2009 the opportunity presented itself to join Norm as an owner. Peter is excited about his future at Juniper, and is dedicated to maintaining its reputation as one of Ottawa’s top restaurants.