Niagara College’s (NC) Signature Chef Series returns by popular demand, with its second guest chef for 2024 bringing the vibrant flavours of Louisiana to Benchmark to celebrate the end of summer.

On Saturday, October 5, the series will continue with Executive Chef Eric Martinez from the Orlando World Center Marriott – the largest Marriott Hotel globally, renowned for its “world beyond compare” experience. Chef Martinez is set to create an unforgettable dining experience, infusing his Louisiana heritage into the gourmet dishes served at Benchmark, located at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The Signature Chef Series is a unique culinary event that brings globally renowned chefs to NC. Since 2014, the series has provided a platform for chefs from around the world to showcase their talents, work alongside students, and offer guests a one-of-a-kind dining experience and an opportunity to enjoy gourmet dishes in an immersive setting.

“Our Signature Chef Series is more than just a dinner, it’s an experience,” said Craig Youdale, Dean of Niagara College’s Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies. “The goal is to create an atmosphere that reflect the origins of our world class guest chefs and offer an opportunity for our students and staff to connect with leading professionals in the industry. We are excited to bring Chef Eric’s amazing culinary talents to our community and hope that everyone can come take part in this special event.”

“I feel honoured to be back on Niagara College’s campus,” said Chef Martinez, who previously participated in NC’s Craft Beer and BBQ Festival as a Barbecue Guest Chef. “The welcome and collaboration from the students and instructors is incredible. I am inspired to bring the team at Niagara College a proper Louisiana feast that will bring a little Mardi Gras and a little bit of ‘Laissez les bon temps rouler.'”

Chef Martinez began his culinary career in New Orleans, where he honed his skills as one of the youngest non-European sous chefs at Arnaud’s restaurant. His career with Marriott has taken him from the JW Desert Springs Marriott in Palm Desert, California, to the Hilton Head Marriott Beach and Golf Resort in South Carolina, and finally to the New Orleans Marriott as Executive Sous Chef. At the New Orleans Marriott, he promoted the city’s food and culture on national TV shows like Good Morning America and Martha Stewart Live. Chef Martinez has also been featured as a James Beard Chef for Réveillon and on Good Morning America for Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance.

Currently at the Orlando World Center Marriott, Chef Martinez has played a significant role in developing, renovating, and operating several dining establishments, including Siro Urban Italian Kitchen, Falls Pool Bar & Grill, and the Central Pantry project. He has also contributed to enhancing the food and beverage experience for critical sales site visits and has fostered an inclusive environment for all teams.

Raised in South Louisiana with grandparents from Spain and France, Chef Martinez’s cooking style, which he describes as “naturally New Orleans,” reflects his deep appreciation for the culture and heritage that shaped him.

The October 5 Signature Chef Series event will begin at Benchmark with a speakeasy bar and reception-style experience, followed by action food stations in an outdoor tent and patio. Guests will enjoy a one-of-a-kind night with music, friends, and families. The evening will feature an eight-station food carnival, paired with Niagara College wine, beer, and cocktails. The menu will feature items such as a Cajun Charcuterie Board, New Orleans-style BBQ Shrimp over Tasso Grits, Crawfish Étouffée, Duck & Andouille Gumbo and more.

Tickets for the event are now available for purchase at $175 per person. The event will take place from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. For additional details and to purchase tickets, please visit the Eventbrite website here.

NC’s Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division, includes three distinct schools of study: Culinary Arts; Wine, Beer and Spirits; and Hospitality and Tourism.

Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of more than 10,000 students from over 100 countries, who study in 130 diploma, certificate and bachelor degree programs at specialized campuses in Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara College is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world and is ranked Canada’s No.1 research college. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.