Dishin’ on Taste Chefs: Meet Jorge Rocha of Radius

At Radius, nestled in the heart of Burlington at 455 Brant Street, you’ll find a dining experience that blends creativity, passion, and the warm embrace of community. Behind the scenes, steering the kitchen with a deep love for food and tradition, is Chef Jorge Rocha—a culinary artist whose journey started in the rustic kitchens of Portugal and evolved into a celebrated career in Canada.
From Portugal to Canada: A Childhood Shaped by Food
Born in Portugal and later immigrating to Hagersville, Ontario, Chef Jorge’s love for food was cultivated at home. His mother prepared every meal from scratch, and his father was a baker, meaning food was more than just sustenance—it was a way of life.
But it was the family gatherings in Portugal that left the deepest impression. Imagine sitting in an old, dusty cellar in rural northern Portugal, where terracotta vessels filled with slow-roasted dishes emerged from a wood-fired oven, filling the space with intoxicating aromas. The scene was simple—unpretentious, filled with love, homemade wine, and stories that stretched late into the night. Today, those memories shape the way Chef Jorge approaches food: humble, honest, and rooted in tradition.
A Signature Dish with a Creative Twist
While his cooking is heavily influenced by Iberian and coastal flavours, Chef Jorge loves to experiment with global inspiration. His approach to food has evolved—less fussy, more about letting ingredients speak for themselves.
One of his most unexpectedly popular creations? Stacked sushi. What started as a late-night snack experimentturned into a crowd favourite, proving that sometimes, the best dishes come from spontaneity.
What’s Cooking at Radius?
With the holiday rush behind him, Chef Jorge is gearing up for the warmer months ahead. Spring menu planning is on the horizon, and he’s eager to host more Chef’s Table events, offering diners an up-close experience with his culinary craft. He’s also keeping an eye out for community-driven events that shake up the routine—because for Chef Jorge, cooking is about more than just food; it’s about connection.
Words to Live By
Food is about more than what’s on the plate—it’s about experiences, conversations, and stepping outside your comfort zone. Chef Jorge shares one of his favourite reflections:
“Eat at a local restaurant tonight. Get the cream sauce. Have a cold pint at 4 o’clock in a mostly empty bar. Go somewhere you’ve never been. Listen to someone you think may have nothing in common with you. Order the steak rare. Eat an oyster. Have a negroni. Have two! Be open to a world where you may not understand or agree with the person next to you, but have a drink with them anyway. Eat slowly. Tip your server. Check in on your friends. Check in on yourself. Enjoy the ride.”
It’s a philosophy that perfectly aligns with the Taste of Burlington experience—savouring not just the flavours of a meal, but the moments that come with it.
Experience Radius for Yourself
Ready to indulge in fresh, locally inspired flavours? Visit Radius at 455 Brant Street, or book your table online:
radius.ca
reserve@radius.ca
@radiusdining
For more delicious experiences across Burlington, explore all the participating restaurants at Taste of Burlington.