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Charisse’s introduction into the local food industry came through a suburban Philadelphia Farmers' Market, where she served as the Market Manager for 7 seasons. During that time she grew the market to be
second largest in the Philadelphia area and had the unique opportunity to work with local independent food producers. The experience led Charisse to start Lokal Artisan Foods.
In 2018, Charisse opened her French Toast Bites stand in Philadelphia, and in 2020, became the first Black woman to own and operate a food establishment in Spruce Street Harbor Park and Cherry Street Pier on
Penn's Landing. Additionally, Charisse became the first black woman in Pennsylvania with a signature craft beer, "French Toast Bites Ale.” Additional products brought to market include French Toast Bites Spice
and French Toast Bites Coffee. Charisse earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Temple University’s School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management and in 2018, she enrolled in the MBA Food Marketing
program at Saint Joseph's University.
Philadelphia’s ‘French Toast Lady’ Brews A Beer, Puts Bacon On A Stick, And Prepares For World Domination
October 16, 2020 - Philadelphia Business Journal
Lokal Artisan Foods owner saw capital flood in after unrest flared up
September 1, 2020 - Philadelphia Tribune
Charisse McGill becomes first African-American female vendor at Spruce Street Harbor Park
August 5, 2020 - Philadelphia Inquirer
Pennsylvania 30 Day Fund helps small businesses stay afloat during
the pandemic
July 17, 2020 - 6ABC News
First Black female chef at Spruce Street Harbor Park offers sweets
July 17, 2020 - Philadelphia Inquirer
French Toast Bites stand is opening at Spruce Street Harbor Park
July 17, 2020 - Philadelphia Business Journal
Philadelphia food entrepreneur finds haven in retail after cancellation of large
events
May 11, 2020 - Philadelphia Business Journal
'We need to stop seeing each other as competition': Local restaurants share
facilities, expertise to help survive pandemic
April 30, 2020 - CBS3 Philly "Takeout with Tori"
Takeout With Tori: Breakfast Favorites, Chinese With Philly Twist Readily
Available Thanks To Spirit Of Coming Together
April 7, 2020 - Philadelphia Tribune
Coronavirus crisis leads to business partnership
December 18 , 2018 - Philadelphia Inquirer
She Wants to be the "Auntie Anne" of French Toast
December 10, 2018 - 6ABC FYI Philly
Shopping at the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market and Christmas Village
November 28, 2018 - PHL17 Morning Show
French Toast Bites are a Hit at Holiday Market
Connect with Charisse on LinkedIn