Marisa Churchill

Marisa Churchill began to cook as soon as she was old enough to reach the stove. She spent countless hours in the kitchen with her yiayia (Greek grandmother), learning to make yogurt, cure olives, and prepare a wide array of authentic Greek dishes. These early experiences, deeply rooted in Greek culinary traditions, continue to influence her cooking style.

In 1999, determined to transform her lifelong passion for cooking into a professional career, she moved to San Francisco and graduated from the California Culinary Academy. She expanded her culinary expertise by studying advanced pastry skills and savory cooking at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone. Churchill's professional journey includes work at high-profile San Francisco restaurants such as Rubicon, The Slanted Door, and Ame, earning her recognition as one of the city's top pastry chefs.

Churchill's culinary skills gained wider acclaim when she competed on "Top Chef" Season 2. Following her appearance on the show, she continued to refine her craft, participating in competitive cooking on "Food Network Challenge" and making guest appearances on various television programs, including NBC, PBS's "The Cooking Odyssey," and "Fox & Friends." Her dedication to promoting healthier cooking methods has also made her a sought-after guest on morning shows.

An advocate for health and wellness, Churchill has focused on creating recipes that are flavorful yet low in fat. This journey led to the publication of her cookbook "Sweet & Skinny," featuring 100 low-fat desserts, some of which utilize Truvia natural sweetener—a product she endorses. Her efforts in health-conscious cooking were recognized when she was chosen for the Food Arts "Top 40" retreat in 2007 as one of the top 40 pastry chefs in the country.

Aside from her professional achievements, Churchill has a personal interest in swimming and travels frequently to Greece, where she hosts culinary tours and cooking lessons. Her commitment to culinary excellence and healthy living continues to inspire her work and public appearances.