Marcel Bregstein - A Character with Immense Character

04/03/25 • 30 min

“We’re not in the hospitality business. I create experiences. I create moments. I create memories.” – Marcel Bregstein

What does turning a dining room into a stage and service into soul-stirring theatre take? In this week’s 'Taped Live' - Chatter That Matters, I sit down, glass in hand and mic on—with Marcel Bregstein: sommelier, showman, and the heart behind The Toronto Hunt, one of Canada’s most extraordinary clubs. His story is a cinematic sweep—from privilege in Costa Rica, to hardship in Canada, to cruise ships, heartbreak, fine wine, and a calling. Marcel doesn’t just serve food or wine. He serves memory. Meaning. Magic. And along the way, he reminds us that what truly matters is how you make people feel.

Listen to this episode to discover how a busboy turned maître d’ became a knighted sommelier, how a bottle of ’47 Lafite taught more than taste, and how great service is never about the table—but the story you take home from it.

And as a bonus? Special appearances were made by three Canadian icons—wine entrepreneur extraordinaire Elayne Bassett, one of Canada’s most celebrated musicians, John Lennard, and celebrated chef Jamie Kennedy, who shared their reflections on what makes Marcel a character of immense character.

This is a great listen for anyone who loves a good rags-to-riches-to-emotional riches story and those who want to matter more by creating experiences that linger long after the lights go out.

Many years ago, Marcel was a newcomer to Canada. To learn more about RBC and how they support those who come here to chase the Canadian dream. https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/en-ca/new-to-canada/newcomers/

“We’re not in the hospitality business. I create experiences. I create moments. I create memories.” – Marcel Bregstein

This is a great listen for anyone who loves a good rags-to-riches-to-emotional riches story and those who want to matter more by creating experiences that linger long after the lights go out.

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Chatter that Matters - Marcel Bregstein - A Character with Immense Character

Transcript

00:00:05.358

I've always been drawn to people who are both a character and someone of great character. The kind of person who isn't afraid to stand out, speak their mind, entertain, and engage, not from a place of ego or authority, but from a place that bratiates humanity. My guest this week is one of those rare individuals, Marcel Bregstein.

00:00:27.730

We're recording this episode at the Toronto Hunt. It's a golf course perched above Lake Ontario in the East