Meet Elise Wiggins | Chef/ Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elise Wiggins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elise, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I had a chef once teach me that if I wasn’t a lil afraid on my new position then I’m not growing. I believe in this mantra. The key is to gain as much experience as possible to make you successful but still push the boundaries of what is comfortable for you.

What should our readers know about your business?
Cattivella is my Woodfired Italian concept. I have been traveling and studying in Italy for over 25 years. My goal was to learn dishes that the American person isn’t familiar with unless they go to small towns off the beaten path. There are lots of wonderful Italian restaurants in The US but I wanted to separate myself by offering dishes that make your eyes roll back with the first bite but not known. I also set myself apart by offering authentic hospitality. I’m southern so that goes hand in hand with making people feel like they are home. I’m so connected with my “Cattivella Family members” that a lot have my cell number.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to a Red Rocks concert, Sunday Vinyl Wine Bar, One Up Arcade, Drinks at the Cruise Room, Drag show at Hamburger Mary’s dinner at Cattivella…..tacos at Taco de Mexico, Country Japanese at Domo.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I give a shout out to my parents Ed and Honor Wiggins. They have been key to my success in my career as a chef. My mother inspired me with her stories of food and travel and my father inspired me with his passion for hunting and respecting the animal that you take by using all parts.

Website: cattivelladenver.com

Instagram: #cattivelladen

Twitter: @cattivelladen

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cattivelladenver

Image Credits
Elise Wiggins, Photo Credit Marla Keown