The culinary world is made up of bustling kitchens, medleys of flavor, and palettes of colors that form an artistic dance on our plates. At the heart of this world, especially on the sandy shores of New Jersey, is a figure who encapsulates far more than just the magic of mixing ingredients. Marilyn Schlossbach stands as a beacon, not just of culinary prowess but also as a symbol of community, sustainability, and creative collaboration. As far more than an acclaimed chef, Schlossbach is a visionary restaurateur and humanitarian who uses her culinary talents to uplift communities. Her restaurants are establishments that redefined the Jersey Shore’s culinary scene, yet her impact extends far beyond the plate.
A Culinary Connoisseur with a Cause
Having sizzled and sautéed her way to the top, Schlossbach is the proud owner of the Marilyn Schlossbach Group, which boasts numerous venues that have tantalized the palates of many. The names Langosta Lounge, Asbury Park Yacht Club, and Whitechapel Projects are not just establishments but institutions in their own right, resonating with stories of flavorful dishes, curated events, and boundless creativity.
However, what truly sets Schlossbach apart is her unyielding drive for community upliftment. Rooted in the heart of her establishments, like the not-for-profit Food For Thought By The Sea, is a commitment to sustainability. With initiatives that range from community gardening to surf lessons with local youth clubs, Schlossbach’s endeavor isn’t just about food. It’s about feeding souls.
Schlossbach recent brainchild, Sidepiece at Whitechapel Projects, is a culinary nod to adaptability. As the name suggests, it’s the delicious side act to the main event, reflecting the malleability and resilience that Schlossbach’s ventures have become known.
Stirring Sustainability with Style
Whitechapel Projects, a brainchild borne from the vision of Preston Casertano and a love for adaptive reuse, found its beating heart when Schlossbach came on board. Transforming the iconic space, the team has crafted a place that bleeds art, music, gastronomy, and community. Here, every dish, every event, is an ode to local producers and global flavors, embodying Schlossbach’s belief in sustainability not just for the environment but for the soul and the purse.
“We need to forkin prioritize sustainability! Not just for the environment but also for our communities and our bank accounts…” Schlossbach passionately proclaims. Indeed, every dish, every venture, every collaboration she undertakes is a testament to this ethos.
Chocolates, Charities, and Community
Schlossbach’s ventures don’t end with her restaurants. The Cocoa Boat chocolate line is an indulgence that sweetens the soul, while Two River Mushroom Co. speaks to her belief in fresh, locally sourced produce. Her debut cookbook, Feed This Community, isn’t just a collection of recipes but a narration of community ties, with each of its eleven chapters dedicated to a charity.
Her philanthropic ventures during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she orchestrated the delivery of thousands of meals to local residents, is yet another feather in her cap, or should we say, another garnish on her dish!
Elixirs and Oils: Marilyn’s Ode to Beauty
Adding another dimension to her vast repertoire is Oshin Oil, a beauty product that champions the mighty moringa. Touted as the “miracle tree,” this skincare concoction promises to nourish and revitalize, much like Schlossbach does for her community. Every drop is a testament to Schlossbach’s commitment to quality, authenticity, and sustainability.
A Legacy Beyond the Kitchen
While her culinary achievements are renowned, what makes Marilyn Schlossbach truly remarkable is her role as a mother, wife, and community leader. Her commitment to nurturing not only stretches to the dishes she prepares but to her twin girls, her husband, and her extended family—the community of New Jersey.
She’s a force of nature, a whirlwind of creativity and compassion, leaving an indelible mark not just on plates but on hearts and minds. Her story, much like her dishes, promises to be one for the ages, forever remembered, forever celebrated.
In a culinary landscape teeming with trends, Schlossbach stands tall as a true visionary, weaving her culinary artistry with community upliftment and a resounding commitment to sustainability. From the shores of New Jersey to the heart of every dish, Schlossbach’s touch is that of both a culinary maestro and a compassionate advocate for change. Through her culinary feats, philanthropic endeavors, and dedication to crafting a better world, Schlossbach has transformed the dining experience into a symphony of flavors and a celebration of the human spirit.
As waves crash on the Jersey Shore and patrons indulge in gastronomical delights, one thing is clear: Marilyn Schlossbach is not just a chef. She’s a force of nature, a whirlwind of creativity and compassion, leaving an indelible mark not just on plates, but on hearts and minds. Her story, much like her dishes, promises to be one for the ages, forever remembered, forever celebrated. As Schlossbach likes to say: “We need to keep growing not just our businesses but our hearts and souls.”
