Culinary school taught me the basics of what I needed to know working in a professional environment. I had worked in kitchens before college, but Niagara College really helped me dig deeper into knowledge. I also met a lot of people at the college that I still talk to these days in business.
Growing up Marissa Hartley wasn’t a great book learner, but excelled with hands-on work and possessed a passion for cooking. While in high school Hartley was turned onto the idea of going to college and specializing in culinary arts which would lead her to Niagara College. After graduating from the Culinary Skills program, Hartley would land a Garde Manager position at the Lake House Restaurant and would eventually make her way up to Sous Chef, later pivoting to working at a brunch restaurant. Hartley considered giving entrepreneurship and would eventually open up her own business, Chz Plz.
Hartley would strike success as Chz Plz became a well-known name and must-visit establishment for anyone seeking shareable platters and charcuterie. In 2020 Hartley was nominated for a Women in Business Award recognizing her success here in Niagara.