By Alex Popa
Haitian cuisine is known for its bold flavors, rich traditions, and deep cultural roots. Few people embody this culinary heritage as passionately as Martine Roc, the founder of Chef Martine LLC. With a background in hospitality management and years of experience in the culinary industry, she has turned her love for food into a thriving business.
Her journey has been shaped by resilience, ambition, and an unwavering commitment to showcasing the best of Haitian cuisine.
Personal Life and Educational Background
Born and raised in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Martine Roc’s love for cooking began in her homeland. From an early age, she found joy in creating meals that brought people together, a passion that eventually led her to pursue a formal education in the culinary arts. She moved to the United States in 2006 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from Johnson & Wales University, graduating cum laude. She also holds a culinary certificate from the San Diego Culinary Institute, where she was honored as valedictorian.
Her professional career flourished as she gained experience in various aspects of the food industry. For over 14 years, she worked as an executive chef at a top restaurant equipment rep group, training chefs, cafeteria managers, and cooks on integrating kitchen technology into their operations.
Later, she became the Director of Culinary Operations, overseeing menu development, concept creation, and training restaurant staff. These experiences provided her with a deep understanding of both the technical and creative sides of the food business.
Despite her professional success, Martine never lost sight of her dream of entrepreneurship. After losing her job during the COVID-19 pandemic, she saw an opportunity to create something meaningful. That moment of uncertainty became the catalyst for launching Chef Martine LLC, a company dedicated to providing flavorful, convenient, and health-conscious products inspired by her Haitian heritage.
Everything About Chef Martine LLC
Chef Martine LLC was founded on the idea that cooking should be easy, flavorful, and accessible. Martine wanted to develop products that simplify meal preparation without compromising on taste or quality. Her product line includes bases, condiments, and spreads, all designed to help home cooks and professionals create delicious dishes with ease.
One of the brand’s core principles is innovation. Martine combines her extensive culinary knowledge with a deep appreciation for traditional Haitian flavors, creating products that cater to modern consumers. Whether it’s a seasoning blend that transforms a simple dish into a gourmet experience or a spread that adds a new dimension to everyday meals, each item is carefully crafted to offer a balance of taste, health, and convenience.
Since its inception, Chef Martine LLC has made significant strides. In 2024, the company secured a partnership with a multi-unit café and expanded its presence at local farmers’ markets. Martine also joined a distributor’s “Fast Track to Market” program, gaining access to valuable industry connections and potential retail opportunities.
Plans for 2025 and Beyond
Looking ahead, Martine Roc has ambitious plans for Chef Martine LLC. One of her main goals for 2025 is expanding production capabilities, which includes hiring more staff and investing in better equipment. She also aims to establish a brick-and-mortar café, providing a dedicated space to showcase her products and serve a variety of signature dishes. This café would serve as both a retail location and a culinary experience, allowing customers to enjoy freshly prepared meals while exploring Chef Martine’s full product line.
Another key objective is expanding into retail. While the brand has gained traction through direct-to-consumer sales at markets and events, Martine is focused on securing shelf space in health-conscious grocery stores and specialty food retailers.
Beyond business expansion, Martine dreams of writing a cookbook, sharing her expertise and favorite recipes with a broader audience. She sees this as a way to educate and inspire home cooks, providing them with the knowledge and confidence to create restaurant-quality meals using her products.
In the long term, she hopes to bring Chef Martine LLC to Haiti, establishing a production plant that creates jobs and supports local farmers. Her ultimate vision is for her brand to become a staple not only in the U.S. but also in Canada, the Caribbean, and her home country, contributing to economic growth while celebrating Haiti’s rich culinary heritage.
A Word of Advice for Young Haitian Entrepreneurs
As someone who has faced challenges, adapted to changing circumstances, and built a brand from the ground up, Martine Roc offers valuable advice to young Haitian entrepreneurs. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, adaptability, and relationship-building. Starting a business requires perseverance, especially when faced with obstacles such as limited funding or industry barriers.
She encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to seek out resources, whether through mentorship, business development programs, or industry networking. Martine’s own success has been shaped by her willingness to learn, ask for help, and embrace constructive feedback. She believes that every setback is an opportunity for growth and that success comes from continuously refining one’s craft and staying committed to a clear vision.
Ultimately, Martine Roc’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Through Chef Martine LLC, she is not only building a successful business but also inspiring a new generation of Haitian entrepreneurs to dream big, embrace their heritage, and create lasting impact in their communities.
