A few friends, a shared dream, and a 100-year-old house.
Food has a way of bringing people together, doesn’t it?
For three friends, Anthony, Ian, and Heather, it started with long, lively dinners—everyone laughing, passing plates, and talking late into the night.
That’s the feeling they wanted to capture.
“We should open a restaurant.”
At first, it was just a running joke: But the more they talked, the more it started to feel real.
The turning point came when the Matterson House—a 100-year-old heritage gem downtown—went on the market, ready for a new chapter.
Anthony rolled up his sleeves and renovated the space, Ian designed the kitchen of his dreams, while Heather managed the logistics.
And with that, Heartwood was born.
A Century of the Matterson House
1920’s
The Matterson family built their home, “Glendale,” on Peninsula Road. The house came to be known as “Matterson House”.
1940–1945
Served as the Officers’ Mess for the Royal Canadian Air Force during WWII.
image © Ucluelet Historical Society
1945-1980’s
Occupied by the Matterson family for decades before being left to the church.
1994
The house was purchased by Jen and Sandy Clark and became The Matterson House Restaurant.
image © Joyce Holmes
2018
Purchased by Ian and Heather and Anthony, who transformed the home into Heartwood Kitchen.
2024
Recognized among the top 10% of businesses worldwide by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice awards.
2025
Honoured locally by District/CoC of Ucluelet as Ucluelet’s Business of the Year.
At the Helm
Owner / Executive Chef
With 30+ years in hospitality and a Red Seal, Ian brings experience from top Canadian resorts to Heartwood Kitchen. His Ucluelet must-dos: Get in the water, hike, forage, and don’t miss Ukee Days.
Owner
Heather keeps the wheels turning at Heartwood—marketing, operations, and the personal touches. She draws on 30+ years of experience in hotel operations and catering.
Owner
Anthony brings a unique mix of skills to Heartwood—as both chef and carpenter, he crafts every detail with care, from recipes to renovations.
Heartwood in the Community
Heartwood in the Community
Recognized & Recommended
Step Inside Heartwood
Cozy corners, lively kitchen, a calm, coastal garden. Heartwood is a place to gather, linger, and enjoy the moment.
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