travis hansen

Travis is the Executive Chef at the internationally famous tourist destination Butchart Gardens.

Born and raised on the Saanich Peninsula, he grew up appreciating the beauty and bounty of Vancouver Island.  The abundance of quality local products and a lineage of great cooks within his own family inspired his interest in the culinary arts.

Travis began his career at The Butchart Gardens and worked his way through the ranks.   He completed his apprenticeship at The Dining Room restaurant in 1997.   After completing his studies he took a sabbatical in order to gain experience in some of the top hotels in Vancouver.  Travis then went on a epicurean tour through Europe gleaning inspiration and ideas from each of the regions he visited.  It was during this trip that Travis strengthened his appreciation of pairing regional food with wines from the surrounding area.

In 2001, Travis returned to The Butchart Gardens accepting the position of Chef de Cuisine in the elegant Dining Room Restaurant.  He was promoted to Executive Chef responsible for all Food Services Outlets in 2008.

Travis’ menus emphasize local farm-fresh ingredients.  He regularly visits his suppliers’ farms and vineyards to ensure that he receives exceptional products and he fully understands how the artisan products he uses are created.   His creativity, passion, and commitment to sourcing the best seasonal products are a complement to the family traditions that The Butchart Gardens has extended to its guests for over a century.