Katie Button

Katie Button’s (Conway, South Carolina, 1983) journey into the culinary world is as unique as her cooking—an inspiring story of passion, curiosity, and a love for Spanish flavors. As one of the most celebrated chefs in the United States, Katie has built her career around showcasing the beauty and depth of Spanish cuisine, blending tradition with innovation to bring a taste of Spain to her hometown of Asheville, North Carolina.

Katie’s path to becoming a chef wasn’t a straight line. A graduate of Cornell University with a background in biomedical engineering, she seemed destined for a career in science. But her passion for food and hospitality ultimately led her to trade the lab for the kitchen. Her curiosity about different cuisines brought her to Spain, where she fell in love with the country’s food, culture, and way of life.

Spain became the defining influence in Katie’s culinary career, but her connection to it began in an unexpected place—José Andrés’ Café Atlántico in Washington, D.C., where she met Félix Meana in 2007. Félix, a native of Roses, Catalonia, who worked at legendary elBulli, considered one of the best restaurants in history, in front-of-house operations. He was also part of the opening team for José Andrés' renowned minibar concept and brought with him a deep knowledge of Spanish hospitality. Their shared passion for food and culture blossomed, eventually leading Katie to explore Spain’s culinary traditions more deeply.

Inspired by Félix and his ties to Spanish gastronomy, Katie honed her skills in elBulli during 2009. Working alongside Adrià and his talented team, she learned to balance creativity with respect for tradition—lessons that became a cornerstone of her culinary philosophy. Together, Katie and Félix set out to bring the essence of Spain to the United States, crafting dining experiences that transported guests to the heart of Spanish gastronomy.

Cúrate, the Heart of Spanish Cuisine in Asheville

In 2011, Katie and Félix opened Cúrate, a modern Spanish tapas bar in Asheville. The restaurant quickly became a local and national sensation, earning acclaim for its authentic dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and thoughtful attention to detail. The name “Cúrate,” which means “cure yourself” in Spanish, reflects the couple’s belief in the restorative power of food and community. From jamón ibérico sliced to perfection to smoky chorizo a la sidra and tender pulpo a la gallega, every dish at Cúrate tells a story of Spain’s rich culinary heritage.

Cúrate’s success propelled Katie into the spotlight, earning her numerous accolades, including a James Beard Award nomination for Best Chef: Southeast. The restaurant has also been named one of the best in the country by outlets like Bon Appétit and Wine Enthusiast.

Katie’s achievements extend beyond her restaurants. She is a cookbook author, with her debut book, Cúrate: Authentic Spanish Food from an American Kitchen, offering home cooks a guide to Spanish cuisine with recipes and stories that reflect her personal journey. The book has been praised for its approachable take on Spanish cooking, making it a staple for anyone looking to explore the flavors of Spain.

Through her dedication, talent, and love for Spanish cuisine, Katie Button has built a bridge between two cultures, bringing the soul of Spain to the mountains of North Carolina. Her work not only celebrates the flavors of Spain but also reminds us of the power of food to connect people, tell stories, and create lasting memories. For Katie, every dish is more than a meal—it’s an invitation to experience the magic of Spain, no passport required.