Markus Donier began his career in 1980 as an apprentice waiter at the prestigious Dolder Grand Hotel in Zürich, Switzerland. Finishing in 1982, he would later return to complete the Chef's apprenticeship program by 1985.

Markus has worked at the Hotel Beau-Rivage twice; Initially as a formal Server, then as a fully fledged Chef, "...serving the versatile and international clientele which the Beau-Rivage was renowned, was hard work yes, but to witness the transformation of various ingredients from their raw stages, into finished dishes was truly an exciting experience. Like seeing magic tricks performed from behind the scenes. Something that affects me to this day."

Prior to graduating from the prestigious Schweizerische Hotelfachschule, Markus worked at the infamous St. Moritz Ski Resort partially to feed his intense passion for skiing. His decision in moving to America, was in part he adds, "...everything is so fresh here, so abundant. I felt so spoiled, and still do." A feeling purposely fused into the cuisine, and onto the client.

At left - Preparing fresh ingredients for our savory 'Fettuccini Vernela alla Cascadia'.