Golden, British Columbia, is a town known for its breathtaking mountain views, vibrant community, and adventurous spirit. Now, it’s about to become a destination for food lovers, too. The Stolen Bell Distillery is opening its doors not just as a place to enjoy world-class spirits, but as a home for a truly unique dining experience. At the heart of this new chapter is Jorrit Schuurman, the distillery’s new head chef, whose passion, creativity, and global perspective are about to make a delicious mark on the local food scene.

Meet Jorrit: A Chef with a World of Experience

Jorrit’s journey to Golden is as inspiring as the dishes he creates. From a young age, he knew he was destined for the kitchen. His culinary path began in the Netherlands, where he attended a pre-culinary school in high school before diving into four years of culinary training. But Jorrit’s ambitions didn’t stop at the classroom door. He set out to see the world, cooking his way through Australia, New Zealand, Austria, and Norway, before finally landing in Canada.

His travels weren’t just about collecting passport stamps, they were about collecting flavours, techniques, and stories. Each stop along the way added a new layer to his culinary identity, shaping a chef who is as comfortable with classic European techniques as he is with bold, international flavours. After years of working in high-volume kitchens and intimate eateries alike, Jorrit was ready for a new adventure, one that would let him put down roots and truly make his mark.

Golden, with its small-town charm and welcoming community, was the perfect fit. “I was hoping to end up somewhere in Canada that felt like home,” Jorrit shares. “Golden was high on my list, and as soon as I arrived, I knew this was the place.” Now, as head chef at Stolen Bell Distillery, he’s ready to share his passion with locals and visitors alike.

A Food Philosophy Rooted in Simplicity, Creativity, and Community
So, what can diners expect from the Stolen Bell food program? In a word: excitement. Jorrit’s philosophy is all about taking simple dishes and elevating them with unexpected twists, international influences, and fresh local ingredients. “I love the freedom and creativity I’ve been given here,” he says. “We have a vision, but I get to go wild and see what I can create.”

The menu is designed to be approachable yet adventurous, offering something for everyone. Think chicken tenders reimagined with Indian-inspired spices and yogurt, or beef skewers grilled over Japanese charcoal, marbled with chicken skin for an extra layer of flavour. Each dish is a reflection of Jorrit’s global journey, but also of his deep respect for the ingredients and the people who produce them.

One of the most exciting aspects of the food program is its commitment to local sourcing. Jorrit is already working with Golden Acres, a local pig farm, to bring whole-animal features to the menu. “We’re not just buying specific cuts, we’re using what the animal gives us, and creating weekly features based on what’s available,” he explains. There are also plans to collaborate with other vendors in the Columbia Valley and to source bread from local bakers. The result? A menu that’s as fresh and dynamic as the community it serves.

A Shared Dining Experience Like No Other
Dining at Stolen Bell Distillery isn’t just about the food, it’s about the experience. The restaurant is designed as a shared space, where guests might find themselves sitting alongside new friends, sampling a variety of dishes throughout the night. “It’s not your average three-course meal,” Jorrit says. “We want people to order what they want, when they want, and just enjoy the evening.”

This communal approach extends to the menu itself, with dishes sized for sharing and a focus on variety. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favourite spot or a visitor seeking a taste of Golden’s culinary creativity, you’ll find something to love. And with the distillery’s expertly crafted spirits on hand, there are endless opportunities for unique food and drink pairings. Jorrit and the bar team work closely to ensure that the international flavours on the menu are reflected in the cocktail list, creating a seamless and exciting dining experience.

More Than a Distillery: A Destination for Food Lovers
Stolen Bell Distillery is more than just a place to enjoy a drink, it’s a destination for anyone who loves great food, great company, and great stories. Jorrit’s vision for the kitchen is one of inclusivity and passion. “I hope to recruit chefs with the same passion as me,” he says. “You don’t necessarily need experience. If you’re dedicated and passionate, you can go a long way. The kitchen should be a welcoming place, not the stressful environment people often imagine.”

This commitment to positivity and community is already making waves. With plans to launch a career page and hire a full team, Stolen Bell is poised to become a hub for culinary talent in Golden. And with Jorrit at the helm, diners can look forward to a menu that’s always evolving, always exciting, and always rooted in the best that the region has to offer.

Get Ready, Golden: Something Delicious Is Coming
As the Stolen Bell Distillery prepares to open its doors, the excitement is palpable. For locals, it’s a chance to experience something new, a modern, elevated dining experience that celebrates the flavours of the world and the bounty of British Columbia. For visitors, it’s a reason to linger a little longer in Golden, to savour not just the scenery, but the food and the stories behind it.

So whether you’re planning a date night, a gathering with friends, or just looking for your next culinary adventure, make sure Stolen Bell Distillery is at the top of your list. With Jorrit leading the kitchen, you’re in for a meal and an experience you won’t soon forget.