Bartender · Foraging Specialist
Chris Maher
Whistler
Whistler native. Expert mushroom forager. Experienced bartender and sommelier. Hospitality background paired with deep knowledge of wild foraging across the Sea-to-Sky.
Chris Maher combines a strong background in hospitality with extensive knowledge of wild foraging throughout the Sea-to-Sky region. His experience spans the forests and alpine environments surrounding Pemberton, Whistler, and nearby backcountry areas, where he has developed a deep understanding of seasonal ingredients and local ecosystems.
Chris is an experienced bartender and sommelier with a passion for crafting thoughtful food and beverage experiences inspired by the landscapes of British Columbia. His work often incorporates locally foraged ingredients, bringing a unique regional element to cocktails, pairings, and outdoor dining experiences.
In addition to his beverage background, Chris is also a proficient cook with a strong appreciation for ingredient-driven meals and wilderness hospitality. His approachable style and knowledge of both hospitality and the outdoors help create experiences that feel authentic, relaxed, and deeply connected to place.
The best hospitality experiences are rooted in seasonality, atmosphere, and connection to the environment — outdoor knowledge and thoughtful food and beverage, reflecting the landscapes they come from.
Chris leads foraging-forward day trips and joins multi-day expeditions where the program calls for cocktails, sommelier-led beverage service, or foraging integration. A specialist on the boundary where the forest meets the bar.