Meet Our Team

Matt Ortt

Managing Partner

With more than 25 years in the hospitality industry, Matt has operated various establishments, ranging from casual to fine dining, including national chain restaurants such as TGI Fridays and Hooters. Matt has experience and expertise in all aspects of restaurant operations including recruitment, hiring and training of managers and staff, profit and loss accountability, food cost reduction and back of house productivity. Matt has overseen the development of multiple restaurants from the ground up, working closely with architects, engineers, and construction teams to bring his clients' visions to reality. He assists in securing the necessary permits and licenses for new establishments and provides guidance in budgeting, cost analysis, and payroll and accounting systems. Matt enjoys using his extensive experience to exceed his client's expectations.


Stuart Diepold

Managing Partner/ Corporate Chef

Stuart began his culinary career at the age of 18. His passion for food led him to the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute in Pittsburgh, PA where he studied Culinary Arts. To further hone his skills Stuart moved to Connecticut to cook at celebrity chef Todd English’s Tuscany restaurant at the Mohegan Sun. Stuart relocated to Maryland in 2006 where he has been cooking locally ever since. He has worked as the executive chef of Galaxy 66 Bar & Grill and the Skye Bar and Grille, which he also helped to design and open. Stuart's support of cooking with fresh, local ingredients led him to accept an executive chef position at the Shark on the Harbor, where he gained even more experience with source to table cuisine. After winning multiple awards for his culinary excellence at Rare and Rye, Stuart now puts his talents to use as a consultant to Matt Ortt Companies clients.


Brandon Phillips

Director of Operations

Brandon began his career in the restaurant industry nearly 35 years ago. He takes pride in thoroughly training staff and executing new concepts to make our restaurants successful. Brandon has over 26 years of restaurant management experience, from grab and go to fine dining. He has also owned and operated multiple local establishments. Brandon joined Matt Ortt Companies as a General Manager and soon after stepped into the Director of Operations role. His focus on fiscal and operational tasks help to promote productivity and efficiency within the company and make Brandon and integral part of the Matt Ortt Companies team.


Danny Brooks

Chief Financial Officer 

Danny is a licensed CPA with more than 30 years of experience as a Controller or Chief Financial Officer for companies with $5 million to $50 million in annual sales. His experience includes a concentration in restaurant management and construction. Danny's services include permanent, part-time Controller or CFO, preparation of tax returns and accounting software conversion. In addition, he offers tax planning and management advisory services, as well as accounting and bookkeeping. Danny has expertise in creating and writing business plans, designing accounting systems, internal control, inventory control and producing management and financial reports.


Chelsey Chmelik

Beverage Director

Chelsey has been in the restaurant business for over 20 years. Her passion for creating innovative and exceptional cocktails led her to a position as Beverage Director for Matt Ortt Companies. Chelsey focuses strongly on menu design, brand and beverage development, and implementing new ideas to increase guest satisfaction. Her attention to service, preparation and presentation allows her to consistently exceed our guests’ expectations. 


Angie Ortt

Human Resources

Angie has worked in the hospitality industry for over 15 years. After earning her degree in communications and public relations, she worked as a public relations consultant and special events coordinator in Washington, D.C., working with national clients such as VISA. Since relocating to the Eastern Shore, Angie has worked as a public relations and human resources specialist for various local restaurants. She takes pride in ensuring that all vital information is delivered to the community in an efficient manner. Her attention to detail and organizational skills prove to be a great asset to Matt Ortt Companies’ clients.


Lia Isel

Events Manager

Lia has been in the wedding and event planning industry for over 20 years. She began her career in floral design where she specialized in wedding and event décor. Lia has coordinated everything from weddings and rehearsal dinners to business seminars and baby showers. She enjoys working closely with each and every client to satisfy their unique vision and seamlessly transform them into reality. Her attention to all the small details helps her to create flawless events for her clients. Lia works closely with Matt Ortt Companies’ clients to assist them every step of the way with event planning, design and execution.