The seeds of Marcello Marino’s storied career as an internationally acclaimed chef, restaurateur and educator were sowed in his grandmother’s garden during his childhood visits to Sicily, Italy. The garden was where he learned how to make the most out of his surroundings, carefully nurturing seedlings that would one day become the dishes that brought friends, families and neighbors together.
Chef has carried that passion to meaningfully connect with others through the power of food throughout his 35-year career. Born in Argentina to a pilot and former patissiere, Chef attributes much of his success to the people, mentors and peers he’s met while traveling the world to hone his culinary expertise.
A graduate and ambassador of Le Cordon Bleu, Chef worked as an apprentice in fine restaurants and cafes before embarking on executive roles in kitchens at ski resorts, cruise lines, restaurant groups and hotels in 38 different countries. While his culinary creations speak volumes on plates, Chef is multilingual and can converse in English, Spanish, German, Italian and Portuguese.
Beyond his world-renowned mastery and ingenuity, Chef is highly revered as an educator, leader and role model amongst seasoned professionals and students alike. He continues to teach, train and inspire culinary artists from all walks of life in La Porte County and beyond — whether they’re deep into their careers or just starting to plan for life after high school graduation.
Some highlights of Chef’s career include:
- Building and implementing the inaugural Spanish-language diploma program in the United States as the lead instructor at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts
- Leading the “Savoring the Americas” gala dinner at the James Beard Foundation in New York
- Opening Green House Organic Restaurant in Miami and designing and developing healthful, avant-garde cuisine
Chef has been recognized for his dedication to advance culinary excellence throughout his nearly four-decade career with numerous awards including the 2008 Outstanding Instructor of the Year at Le Cordon Bleu Miami and the 2009 Career College Association National Teacher of the Year award.
La Ventana Culinary School 