Katie Button is a rising star in the culinary world, known for her innovative approach to Spanish cuisine. Her unique background – she grew up in the Appalachians and later studied molecular genetics – informs her creative cooking style. With multiple restaurants, a cookbook, and a popular TV show under her belt, she’s a force to be reckoned with.
Early life and education
Katie Button was born in the town of Boothbay Harbor, Maine in 1984. Her mother was a nurse and her father was a marine biologist. As a child, Button enjoyed helping her mother cook and bake, but she never considered pursuing a career in the culinary arts.
Button attended the University of California, Los Angeles, where she studied molecular genetics. After graduation, she worked at Johnson & Johnson in their medical devices division. However, she found the work unfulfilling and decided to take a chance on a new career path.
Culinary career
Button moved to Spain to study under Ferran Adrià, a pioneering chef in the world of molecular gastronomy. She later worked at several well-known restaurants in the region, including elBulli and El Celler de Can Roca.
In 2011, Button and her husband Felix Meana opened their first restaurant, Cúrate, in Asheville, North Carolina. The restaurant quickly gained a loyal following for its authentic, upscale Spanish cuisine. In 2013, they opened a second restaurant, Nightbell, which offers creative small plates and craft cocktails.
Cookbook and TV show
In 2016, Button published her first cookbook, “Cúrate: Authentic Spanish Food from an American Kitchen.” The cookbook features recipes from her restaurant, as well as stories about her culinary journey and tips for cooking Spanish cuisine at home.
Button also hosts a popular cooking show on PBS called “The Comeback Kitchen.” In the show, she helps struggling and amateur chefs revamp their cooking skills and earn a spot on a Food Network competition show.
Personal life
Katie Button met her husband, Felix Meana, while working in Spain. They married in 2009 and now have two children together. Meana is the co-owner and general manager of their restaurants.
Button’s family has been incredibly supportive of her career. Her mother has even moved to Asheville to help her with the restaurants.
Height and appearance
Katie Button stands at about 5’5″ tall. She has wavy brown hair and bright blue eyes. She often wears her hair in a low bun or loose waves, and her style is described as simple and classic.
Net worth
As of 2021, Katie Button’s net worth is estimated to be around $3 million. This is largely thanks to her successful restaurant ventures, cookbook, and TV show.
Awards and recognition
Button has been recognized for her culinary skills by several prestigious organizations. In 2015, she was named a James Beard Foundation finalist for Best Chef: Southeast. She has also been featured in The New York Times, Food & Wine, and Bon Appétit.
Philanthropy
Button is dedicated to giving back to her community. She has worked with several local charities and organizations, including MANNA FoodBank and the Asheville Art Museum. She also founded the Katie Button Foundation, which provides culinary scholarships and education opportunities.
Future plans
As of now, Button has no plans to slow down her busy schedule. She and her husband are constantly brainstorming new restaurant concepts and menu items. She is also exploring other creative opportunities, such as writing and public speaking.
Conclusion
Katie Button is a culinary powerhouse who has made a name for herself in the world of Spanish cuisine. Her unique background and approach to cooking have won her countless fans and accolades. With her cookbook, TV show, and growing restaurant empire, she shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
