Chefs Isa Mottiar and Erin Circelli shared the spotlight, along with a menu inspired by their personal journeys, in front of a sold-out crowd on April 3.
The ticketed event at Benchmark was part of Niagara College’s A Chef’s Journey dinner series. Each dinner features an academic chef – or two – who curate a menu and evening of storytelling inspired by their personal and career journeys which led them to NC’s School of Culinary Arts.
Mottiar (Beamsville) is an established leader in Niagara’s culinary scene, as resident chef at Good Earth Food and Wine Company (since 2008), who has sharpened her skills at some of the top kitchens in the region, like Hillebrand, Vineland Estates, and Inn on The Twenty. She began teaching at NC over five years ago, then full-time in August 2024.
Circelli (Niagara Falls/ Chippawa) is a three-time champion of the Food Network Guy’s Grocery Games show. After making her mark as one of the most influential chefs and culinary educators in London, Ontario, she now resides in Niagara, and joined NC full-time in August 2024.
Mottiar and Circelli were joined by team of student volunteers, alongside colleagues, alumni, friends and family.
Photos submitted by Chelsea Rose, Student Social Media Associate (Culinary, Tourism and Beverage Studies division)
A Chef’s Journey
Three events in the series remain for the 2024-2025 academic year. Upcoming events will feature Chef Professors Riley Bennett (April 24), Scott Baechler (May 8); and Oscar Turchi (May 22). For details and ticket information visit Eventbrite here.
A Chef’s Journey events are held at Benchmark restaurant, located at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The events are supported by students and staff from the College’s Benchmark team led by Victor Oliveira and Chef Justin Downes.
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