Our Story
Chef Maxwell — Founder & Executive Chef
Chef Maxwell is the founder and chef behind Backyard Catering, bringing more than 30 years of culinary and food-service experience to the business.
A graduate of George Brown College’s Culinary Program, Chef Max has built his career across institutional kitchens, restaurants, resorts, and his own food businesses. Over the years, he has developed a broad understanding of both professional cooking and the operational side of food service.
Chef Max also spent five years working internationally in Jamaica under the mentorship of Chef Martin Maginley. During that period, he advanced from Sous Chef to Executive Sous Chef, gaining valuable experience in professional kitchens and continuing to develop the standards, techniques, and discipline that would shape his culinary career.
One of the highlights of that experience was being selected as part of Chef Maginley’s culinary team to cook at the James Beard House in New York. His international experience also included culinary and sales trips throughout the United States, representing and showcasing Caribbean cuisine.
From 2008 to 2019, Chef Max was part of a Caribbean restaurant team as a franchise owner and Franchise Development Manager. In that role, he contributed to the growth of the brand from seven locations to more than 20, while gaining extensive experience in restaurant operations, franchise development, business growth, and team leadership.
Today, Chef Max brings together his Caribbean roots, international experience, entrepreneurial background, and decades of food-service knowledge through Backyard Catering. His approach is centered on flavour, consistency, quality, and creating memorable food experiences for private events, corporate clients, BBQs, special occasions, and broader food-service needs across the Greater Toronto Area.
With a commitment to culinary excellence, our team offers tailored menus for any occasion. From corporate gatherings to elegant private events, we provide varied cuisines prepared with meticulous care. Through years of industry leadership, we have built a reputation for reliability and creative flair, ensuring that every guest experiences a refined, welcoming service that feels truly exceptional.
Guided by Chef Max, Backyard Catering delivers deep culinary knowledge to your table. His approach to diverse menu design is built on a career dedicated to food that inspires real connection.
What We Believe
Backyard Catering is a versatile food partner. We blend diverse culinary styles with modern techniques to design custom menus that bring people together, offering everything from global classics to island specialties.
Culinary Edge
Chef Max brings decades of elite experience to every plate, balancing his rich Jamaican background with a broad mastery of global cuisines. His focus is on delivering high-end, adaptable dining for every client.
True Service
To us, catering is about connection. We provide expert, genuine service to ensure every occasion is a warm and polished celebration of great food, tailored specifically to your unique event vision.