Ian Palazzola
Frasca Food and Wine
Born in Roanoke, Virginia, Ian Palazzola began his culinary journey at Le Cordon Bleu in Atlanta. There, he did an externship with restaurateur Kevin Rathbun at his namesake restaurant; eventually, Ian worked his way up to Sous Chef. From there, Ian worked at Restaurant Eugene, the original flagship restaurant of chef Linton Hopkins. Ian found […]
Alberto Hernandez
Frasca Food and Wine
Alberto Hernandez grew up in Atotonilco de Tula, Mexico. He studied gastronomy during his college years (2004-2009) at Universidad Claustro de Sor Juana. Following college, Alberto taught at Colegio de GastronomÍa del Sureste SCP. There, he started the pastry program and spent two years teaching students both pastry and other cooking cuisines and basics. In […]
Shanahan’s Steakhouse
Cliff Blauvelt
Boombots Pasta Shop
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 […]
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 […]
Alen Ramos & Carolyn Nugent
Poulette Bakeshop
Chefs Alen Ramos and Carolyn Nugent have been mentored by some of the world’s most renowned chefs, having decided to pack their bags and learn from the greats of Europe. The couple, who are now married, met while working for Joël Robuchon, who was awarded the title “Chef of the Century” in 1989. They’ve worked […]
Michael Diaz de Leon
Molino Chido
Chef Michael Diaz de Leon is a first generation Mexican American, born in the culturally rich city of El Paso, Texas. He has spent most of his life in the duality that exists from being raised in a border town. Formerly the executive chef/partner of BRUTØ in downtown Denver, Diaz de Leon and partner Tommy […]
Ty Leon
Restaurant Olivia
Ty Leon was born and raised in Gilbert, Arizona. After high school, he moved to Denver, Colorado to attend Johnson & Wales University and pursue a degree in culinary arts and restaurant management. After graduating in 2011, Ty moved to Saratoga, California, to work in the Michelin-starred restaurant Plumed Horse. After two years of living in […]
Kaycee Jones
ELWAY’s Downtown
Chef Kaycee Jones is an accomplished culinary professional with nearly a decade of experience at Marriott International, serving at prestigious brands including The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, and Gaylord Hotels. His career spans renowned destinations such as Scottsdale, Vail, and Denver, where he has honed his craft in delivering exceptional dining experiences. Known for his innovative […]
