ABOUT CHEF MARINA SANCHEZ
I bring my lifelong love for cooking and pursuit of creating joy through eating to my creation of Cocina Norte. My passion for health and wellness comes from a childhood surrounded by my family of Olympians, world champion athletes, and coaches. My family instilled in me the importance of eating well to fuel our bodies for longevity. I learned a healthy relationship with food at a young age, which blossomed into a passion for cooking. Food has always been my love language; I take so much pride and joy in cooking for those around me. I have taught friends how to eat well, enjoy food, and be adventurous with their palates. I left Maui in 2013, where I continued working in the restaurant and hospitality industry while studying Holistic Nutrition and Hospitality Management in San Diego, California. Working in kitchens in Hawaii and California sharpened my skills in food and hospitality. I achieved my Certification in Holistic Nutrition in 2019, but. The learning never stops for me. My passion for learning and community has led me to a Degree in Human Relations in Organizations emphasizing Immigration and Migrant Rights. I have geared my University studies to focus on farmer and migrant rights in Hawaii and the United States. As a third-generation Bolivian immigrant, I take pride in my family's sacrifices to allow me opportunities to grow and learn. I always strive to represent my family and community in the highest regard.
My passion for food and community has taken me all over the world. I have traveled to Italy, Paris, Turkey, Sardinia, Albania, and Mexico, where my sole focus is always cuisine. My travels around the world have fueled my desire to constantly explore new foods and experiences, which is reflected in my love for sharing a good meal. These are all things that bring so much joy into my life.
I relocated home to Maui in 2018 and started Cocina Norte in 2021, which was the best decision I ever made! Cocina Norte is here to help you have more time to do what brings you joy.