Chef Miguel Diaz is the new head chef of Ellina restaurant on the Cooper Avenue Mall in downtown Aspen. A role he has stepped into since the departure of his mentor, Dena Marino, who helped launched the new Aspen restaurant during the winter of 2009/10.
Miguel came to Aspen 14 years ago from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and it was in Aspen that he started his culinary career. He eventually landed under the tutalage of Marino who brought him with her from Ajax Tavern to D19 and then to Ellina. Miguel found early on that cooking made him happy and was the perfect fit for his Aspen lifestyle. As former sous chef under Marino he was responsible for 80% of the Ellina’s menu and now he has the opportunity to shine in his own right as the executive chef. Look for his Puerto Vallarta roots to bring alot of unique fish and latin fusion specials onto the menu as well as great fresh local produce.
Chef Dena Marino opens Aspen’s newest Italian restaurant this evening Thursday Dec. 10 2009. Highly anticipated new eatery Ellina will carry over some of the favorites from D19 and a feast of new favorites.
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Chef Dena Marino, formally of D19 & Ajax Tavern fame, is opening a new Aspen restaurant named Ellina. The name is short for Valtellina, a valley in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, bordering Switzerland. Today it is known for its skiing, its hot spring spas, its cheeses (in particular Bitto), its sausages (in particular Bersola) and its wines. It’s remote location brings a natural emphasis on local ingredients and slow food. The area and the cuisine of Valtellina is a favorite of Dena’s and will influence the Ellina menu. The rustic country menu will also include some favorite dishes from D19. Dena is also happy to have carried over most of the entire staff form her former restaurant D19 that will happily again prepare great food for good people.
Construction crews are currently remodeling the interior to highlight the original brick and stone work dating back to 1880’s. The revamping will offer a decor that is warm, elegant, and sexy. The lighting design will transform the lower level space into a pleasant new look. Italian wedding lights will be strung up through the entrance creating an inviting atmosphere. The space on the Hyman Ave. Mall was most recently vacated by DishAspen restaurant. The new Aspen Restaurant Ellina will be opening December 2009.
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