David Gross
Panzano
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, executive chef David Gross brings over 10 years’ experience to his role at Panzano. David’s culinary career takes inspiration from his Midwestern upbringing, where he spent many afternoons helping his mother make homemade pierogis. It was during those moments that he became enamored with how the artisanship of cooking […]
Cliff Blauvelt
Odie B’s
Born in Maine and raised in Houston, Texas, Cliff Blauvelt moved to Denver at the age of 15 and has called the city home ever since. As a psychology undergrad at Metropolitan State University, Cliff worked at a variety of local restaurants–including Taste of Philly, Denver Ted’s, and Benny Blanco’s—where he discovered a passion for […]
Now Pho
Bio coming soon!
Tajahi Cooke
Ms. Betty’s Cooking
After years of touring and traveling the world, Tajahi Cooke moved to Denver and started cooking; he spent time on the line at Mesa Verde, The Kitchen, and Next Door American Eatery, building technique and learning the importance of details. He continued to work his way through the Denver casual-dining industry, becoming a lead cook […]
Alexander Lopez
Monarch Chophouse
Alexander Lopez was raised in a challenging neighborhood in Southeast Los Angeles, California. Despite the presence of gang activity around him, he was motivated from a young age to avoid that lifestyle and instead pursue his passion for cooking. As a young person, Alexander’s grandmother recognized his love for the culinary arts and taught him […]
Mercantile Dining & Provision
Bio coming soon!
Erasmo Casiano
Lucina Eatery & Bar
Erasmo “Ras” Casiano started his culinary career at the early age of 15. He attended Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island in 2005 and transferred to and graduated from the Denver Campus in 2007. Ras’ mother, Santa Lucina (Lucy), is the inspiration and motivation behind his career in food and beverage, even naming his […]
Daniel Young
Local Jones
Daniel Young joined the Halcyon team in March 2022 as Executive Sous Chef. During his time in that role, he assisted in overseeing all aspects of the banquet and catering department, as well as the hotel’s three culinary concepts. Dan most notably launched the hotel’s lively, neighborhood, all-American bistro and bar, Local Jones. Today, Dan […]
Aminata Dia
Le French
Chef Aminata Dia was born in Senegal, before moving to France at a young age. Growing up just outside of Paris, she discovered a passion for food when she was quite young. She moved to the United States 24 years ago and has been in Denver for 21 years. Once in Colorado, Aminata followed her […]
Camille Shoemaker
Lady in the Wild
Professionally, Camille Shoemaker’s culinary journey began at Johnson & Wales University in Denver, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Baking and Pastry Arts and Food Service Management in 2012. After graduation, Camille moved to New York City, where, in 2016, she earned an M.A. in Food Studies at NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, […]
