Martin was the first person I met when I moved to the Santa Cruz area in 2020. I rented a room from him in Capitola for awhile, before moving on to my own condominium in nearby Scotts Valley. Here is what ChatGPT says about him:
Martin Hoellrigl is an Austria-born chef, sommelier, hotelier, and gardener currently residing in Capitola, California. He holds a degree in tourism management, a chef apprenticeship, a sommelier and vintner diploma, and several hospitality certificates from Cornell University. Throughout his career, Martin has worked in prestigious establishments, including the Palace Hotel Bristol in Paris, where he had the honor of cooking for Pope John Paul II and Tonino Lamborghini.
In 2017, Martin founded Capitola Garden Feast, a catering and special events company that offers luxury private dining experiences. His services include personalized tasting menus ranging from 4 to 12 courses, designed to bring teams and families closer together through the joy of cooking and dining.
Martin is also a contributor to Edible Monterey Bay, sharing his culinary expertise and recipes with the community.
I gave Martin a book on cheese making, and this is what happened. Here's what ChatGPT says about his cheeses:
Chef Martin Hoellrigl, founder of Capitola Garden Feast in the San Francisco Bay Area, crafts a selection of artisanal cheeses known for their premium quality and unique flavors. While specific pricing details are not publicly disclosed, these cheeses are considered among the more exclusive offerings in the region. Notable varieties include:
Jersey Cow Double Cream Wrapped in Nori: A rich, creamy cheese enveloped in seaweed, blending dairy indulgence with umami notes.
Garden Bay Leaf Aged Brie: Aged to perfection with bay leaves from Chef Hoellrigl's garden, this Brie offers a distinctive aromatic profile.
Double Cream with Almonds and Native Culture Cheese Truffle: A luxurious combination of double cream cheese, crunchy almonds, and truffle-infused native cultures, creating a complex and decadent taste experience.
August 5, 2020: Martin the Cheese Maker
I rented a room from Martin in 2020, and he awarded me Housemate of the Year!
Martin's garden
West Glenwood Park, Scotts Valley