Katie Button is a five-time James Beard Foundation award nominated chef, cookbook author, media personality, and founder of Asheville-based Cúrate, a collection of restaurants, online marketplace, wine club and culinary journeys designed to connect people with the Spanish experience.
Katie earned a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, but her passion for food and travel ultimately guided her towards a career in the food world after being immersed in the industry at a young age. She honed her craft in the kitchens of some of the world’s best chefs, most notably Ferran Adrià and José Andrés, before finding her own success with her restaurant group, Button Meana Group, and Cúrate lifestyle brands.
Today, Button Meana Group houses Katie Button Media and Magnolia Network’s From The Source, a series exploring the origins and stories behind different ingredients, as well as the Cúrate brands – Katie’s bread and butter. This includes Cúrate Trips, Cúrate at Home and Cúrate Wine Club, as well as two restaurants, La Bodega by Cúrate and Cúrate Bar de Tapas, which won the James Beard Foundation Outstanding Hospitality award in 2022. In 2016, Katie extended the Cúrate brand to a new medium, releasing her first cookbook, Cúrate: Authentic Spanish Food from an American Kitchen.
Katie continues to challenge the industry standard, steadily building comprehensive benefits to create a sustainable work environment for her living wage-certified restaurant group.
To Our Friends, Family and Community Members:
Thanksgiving is one of our absolute favorite holidays because it signifies togetherness, community, and gratitude. This year, more than ever, giving thanks feels extra heavy and beautiful. There is so much to be thankful for.
As you all know, Asheville and Western North Carolina are still recovering from the tragic aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and it is so hard to wrap our heads around the devastation. It still feels surreal. Lives were lost, families and friends displaced, neighborhoods destroyed, and we as a community are still grieving it all.
Despite this darkness, however, over the past two months we have witnessed beauty, resilience, community, love and care in a way that we have never experienced before. While our hearts still ache for what has happened here, we are grateful for these glittering moments that have filled our hearts with joy and hope.
We are so thankful for Asheville and Western North Carolina, our home: a place of endless natural beauty and rolling mountains and rivers - a vibrant hub of creative makers and artisans. We are grieving the change, loss and devastation that we are facing and still have yet to fully realize, but are so grateful that our collective identities here are firmly rooted in a shared appreciation for nature, and pursuit of a life full of love and passion. There is no doubt that Asheville and WNC will persevere.
It is truly impossible to put together an inclusive list of all the individuals and organizations that we are thankful for, today, simply because of the sheer volume of people that have taken action following the storm. Therefore, we want to send a gigantic thank you to our entire community - thank you for stepping up to help your neighbors and for being a part of this wonderful place we get to call home.
We can and will rebuild together.
With Gratitude,
Katie, Felix and the Cúrate Team
To Our Friends, Family and Community Members:
Thanksgiving is one of our absolute favorite holidays because it signifies togetherness, community, and gratitude. This year, more than ever, giving thanks feels extra heavy and beautiful. There is so much to be thankful for.
As you all know, Asheville and Western North Carolina are still recovering from the tragic aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and it is so hard to wrap our heads around the devastation. It still feels surreal. Lives were lost, families and friends displaced, neighborhoods destroyed, and we as a community are still grieving it all.
Despite this darkness, however, over the past two months we have witnessed beauty, resilience, community, love and care in a way that we have never experienced before. While our hearts still ache for what has happened here, we are grateful for these glittering moments that have filled our hearts with joy and hope.
We are so thankful for Asheville and Western North Carolina, our home: a place of endless natural beauty and rolling mountains and rivers - a vibrant hub of creative makers and artisans. We are grieving the change, loss and devastation that we are facing and still have yet to fully realize, but are so grateful that our collective identities here are firmly rooted in a shared appreciation for nature, and pursuit of a life full of love and passion. There is no doubt that Asheville and WNC will persevere.
It is truly impossible to put together an inclusive list of all the individuals and organizations that we are thankful for, today, simply because of the sheer volume of people that have taken action following the storm. Therefore, we want to send a gigantic thank you to our entire community - thank you for stepping up to help your neighbors and for being a part of this wonderful place we get to call home.
We can and will rebuild together.
With Gratitude,
Katie, Felix and the Cúrate Team
Almost exactly a year ago, I was at the White House cooking the State Dinner for @flotus and on Friday she came to Asheville to better understand the situation and how the people of Western North Carolina are coming together in support of one another. It was so wonderful and surreal to see her in our community…our community is hurting and in need and the road to recovery will take longer than I can even wrap my head around.
@flotus thank you for the visit, please take what you learned to advocate for continued support of Western North Carolina, the people here, our small businesses and incredible makers need you!
Almost exactly a year ago, I was at the White House cooking the State Dinner for @flotus and on Friday she came to Asheville to better understand the situation and how the people of Western North Carolina are coming together in support of one another. It was so wonderful and surreal to see her in our community…our community is hurting and in need and the road to recovery will take longer than I can even wrap my head around.
@flotus thank you for the visit, please take what you learned to advocate for continued support of Western North Carolina, the people here, our small businesses and incredible makers need you!
The catastrophe and devastation in our area is beyond words. And even that is an understatement. I took a moment, yesterday - between strongly worded discussions with my insurance company - to reflect on where we are and my concern for how this situation will impact our food and beverage community, which makes up roughly 12.2% of Asheville’s workforce.
If you have the means to donate, I have included links in my bio for the @NCRLA NC Hospitality Worker Relief Fund , @southernsmokefoundation donation page, and the @wckitchen Hurricane Helene donation link.
We have been told it will be weeks until water is restored, which will continue to affect all aspects of everyone’s lives. And a consequence of this is that there is no way for restaurants to operate without access to water, both potable and nonpotable. Restaurants and the hospitality workforce are uniquely impacted by this situation, in additional to already suffering these same difficulties at home.
We are grateful that World Central Kitchen stepped in so quickly to help Cúrate and La Bodega by Cúrate operate in some capacity. WCK began shipping water and supplies to us to be used for meal distribution through their organization. These meals have been passed out to members of our community, air dropped into locations that are completely isolated, and delivered despite terrain barriers to those without the means to seek food and water.
It feels good and is a relief to at least be productive and have the means to do something for my community. Thanks for listening and keeping our community in our thoughts, and PLEASE donate if you are able.
The catastrophe and devastation in our area is beyond words. And even that is an understatement. I took a moment, yesterday - between strongly worded discussions with my insurance company - to reflect on where we are and my concern for how this situation will impact our food and beverage community, which makes up roughly 12.2% of Asheville’s workforce.
If you have the means to donate, I have included links in my bio for the @NCRLA NC Hospitality Worker Relief Fund , @southernsmokefoundation donation page, and the @wckitchen Hurricane Helene donation link.
We have been told it will be weeks until water is restored, which will continue to affect all aspects of everyone’s lives. And a consequence of this is that there is no way for restaurants to operate without access to water, both potable and nonpotable. Restaurants and the hospitality workforce are uniquely impacted by this situation, in additional to already suffering these same difficulties at home.
We are grateful that World Central Kitchen stepped in so quickly to help Cúrate and La Bodega by Cúrate operate in some capacity. WCK began shipping water and supplies to us to be used for meal distribution through their organization. These meals have been passed out to members of our community, air dropped into locations that are completely isolated, and delivered despite terrain barriers to those without the means to seek food and water.
It feels good and is a relief to at least be productive and have the means to do something for my community. Thanks for listening and keeping our community in our thoughts, and PLEASE donate if you are able.
I was super honored when the @meetingyoupodcast contacted me to talk about my journey as a female chef and entrepreneur. If you haven’t given this great podcast from Host @richardjuke and Producer @abbeyjuke a listen – especially if you’re currently dreaming up a business plan and looking to hear from other women about how they made their own business dreams a reality – queue it up!
“Meeting You Where You’re At” spotlights the inspiring stories of female business owners and change-makers in order to empower other female entrepreneurs, founders and future thought leaders to GO FOR IT. I really respect and resonate with their central goal of helping women learn from other women about how to make a positive social impact and become a pillar in their community through their business ventures.
Give it a listen via the link in my bio if you want to know more about my story and what my continued goals are as the Cúrate brands grow.
I was super honored when the @meetingyoupodcast contacted me to talk about my journey as a female chef and entrepreneur. If you haven’t given this great podcast from Host @richardjuke and Producer @abbeyjuke a listen – especially if you’re currently dreaming up a business plan and looking to hear from other women about how they made their own business dreams a reality – queue it up!
“Meeting You Where You’re At” spotlights the inspiring stories of female business owners and change-makers in order to empower other female entrepreneurs, founders and future thought leaders to GO FOR IT. I really respect and resonate with their central goal of helping women learn from other women about how to make a positive social impact and become a pillar in their community through their business ventures.
Give it a listen via the link in my bio if you want to know more about my story and what my continued goals are as the Cúrate brands grow.
One of my most favorite days of the year is the day of the @welcomeconference It’s a day to connect with old industry friends and make new ones, but most importantly it’s a day to sit and listen to incredible speakers from all kinds of different backgrounds talk about what hospitality means to them. Hospitality in the end is about relationships and people, working to see, hear and feel what the person in front of you needs. I can’t think of anything more fulfilling in life than spending a life working on getting better at making others feel seen and understood. This year was extra special because my personal parenting north star @drbeckyatgoodinside spoke, along with the mindblowingly talented @officialjadesimmons , and my dear friend and incredible restauranteur @stevepalmer12 ...there were so many others, each speaker bringing their personal story and connection to the idea of hospitality. I’m already counting down the days to next year.
One of my most favorite days of the year is the day of the @welcomeconference It’s a day to connect with old industry friends and make new ones, but most importantly it’s a day to sit and listen to incredible speakers from all kinds of different backgrounds talk about what hospitality means to them. Hospitality in the end is about relationships and people, working to see, hear and feel what the person in front of you needs. I can’t think of anything more fulfilling in life than spending a life working on getting better at making others feel seen and understood. This year was extra special because my personal parenting north star @drbeckyatgoodinside spoke, along with the mindblowingly talented @officialjadesimmons , and my dear friend and incredible restauranteur @stevepalmer12 ...there were so many others, each speaker bringing their personal story and connection to the idea of hospitality. I’m already counting down the days to next year.
I finally made it back to La Rue du Croissant aka Paris!!! It had been almost 20 years since the last time I was there, a student studying for a masters degree in biomedical engineering while stuffing myself with pastries and attempting to teach myself how to cook complicated professional French recipes in a tiny apartment in the 7th arrondissement. Walking the streets of the Rue Mouffetard market and lounging at the Luxembourg gardens reminded me of what a difficult time in my life that was. Pushing ahead studying something I didn’t enjoy, cooking to keep myself sane, but mostly living alone in a foreign country. It also was one of the most important turning points in my life and without that experience I do not think I would have had the courage to make the career change I ultimately did. Now, years later, it is so nice to return as a tourist. To soak up the pastries, listen to French music with the windows open in the hotel room, and visit the most incredible kitchen tool shop in the world E.Dehillerin. I will not let another 20 years go by before returning again. Paris, I am forever grateful. ❤️
I finally made it back to La Rue du Croissant aka Paris!!! It had been almost 20 years since the last time I was there, a student studying for a masters degree in biomedical engineering while stuffing myself with pastries and attempting to teach myself how to cook complicated professional French recipes in a tiny apartment in the 7th arrondissement. Walking the streets of the Rue Mouffetard market and lounging at the Luxembourg gardens reminded me of what a difficult time in my life that was. Pushing ahead studying something I didn’t enjoy, cooking to keep myself sane, but mostly living alone in a foreign country. It also was one of the most important turning points in my life and without that experience I do not think I would have had the courage to make the career change I ultimately did. Now, years later, it is so nice to return as a tourist. To soak up the pastries, listen to French music with the windows open in the hotel room, and visit the most incredible kitchen tool shop in the world E.Dehillerin. I will not let another 20 years go by before returning again. Paris, I am forever grateful. ❤️
I would like to personally invite you to a fundraising dinner in support of @haywoodsthousing, organized in collaboration with Chef @meherwanirani. The event will take place next Thursday (9/12) at @chaipani, and consist of a four-course meal planned and plated by Meherwan and myself, with help from @burialbeer, @eastforkpottery, and @frenchbroadchocolate. You can find a link in my bio to purchase tickets!
For over a decade, the Cúrate Crew has supported @haywoodstreetcongregation ‘s work, from Downtown Welcome Table to A Seat at the Table. We believe @haywoodstreetcongregation plays an integral part in supporting our community.
Over the years, I`ve come to know Pastor Brian Combs as an individual, what drives his vision, and witnessed the way Haywood Street Congregation is uniquely able to support Asheville residents, including those facing food scarcity. Brian has now broken ground on a new non-profit project – Haywood Street Community Development – an extremely affordable housing unit located at 339 West Haywood Street. This housing complex will add 41 apartments to our community, between one and three bedrooms in size.
All of these units will be rent protected FOREVER, a rare and bold decision that distinctly separates this project from others of its kind. Half of these units are reserved for those most in need, who own 30% or lower than the Area Median Income – an income group commonly overlooked by affordable housing developers. All HSCD units are planned with dignity and care in mind, with closets and stainless appliances, designed to support and reinforce the worth of its residents.
I can tell you without hesitation that I support HSCD and Brian Combs in ANY project that they undertake. The thought, care, values, and vision that guide their priorities is unmatched, and absolutely essential to the Asheville community.
You can rest assured that your gift will directly impact the lives of REAL people and families. Access to affordable housing is the greatest barrier to pulling a family out of poverty and keeping them out of poverty for generations to come.
With Gratitude,
Katie Button
I would like to personally invite you to a fundraising dinner in support of @haywoodsthousing, organized in collaboration with Chef @meherwanirani. The event will take place next Thursday (9/12) at @chaipani, and consist of a four-course meal planned and plated by Meherwan and myself, with help from @burialbeer, @eastforkpottery, and @frenchbroadchocolate. You can find a link in my bio to purchase tickets!
For over a decade, the Cúrate Crew has supported @haywoodstreetcongregation ‘s work, from Downtown Welcome Table to A Seat at the Table. We believe @haywoodstreetcongregation plays an integral part in supporting our community.
Over the years, I`ve come to know Pastor Brian Combs as an individual, what drives his vision, and witnessed the way Haywood Street Congregation is uniquely able to support Asheville residents, including those facing food scarcity. Brian has now broken ground on a new non-profit project – Haywood Street Community Development – an extremely affordable housing unit located at 339 West Haywood Street. This housing complex will add 41 apartments to our community, between one and three bedrooms in size.
All of these units will be rent protected FOREVER, a rare and bold decision that distinctly separates this project from others of its kind. Half of these units are reserved for those most in need, who own 30% or lower than the Area Median Income – an income group commonly overlooked by affordable housing developers. All HSCD units are planned with dignity and care in mind, with closets and stainless appliances, designed to support and reinforce the worth of its residents.
I can tell you without hesitation that I support HSCD and Brian Combs in ANY project that they undertake. The thought, care, values, and vision that guide their priorities is unmatched, and absolutely essential to the Asheville community.
You can rest assured that your gift will directly impact the lives of REAL people and families. Access to affordable housing is the greatest barrier to pulling a family out of poverty and keeping them out of poverty for generations to come.
With Gratitude,
Katie Button
Last night we went swimming in the rain after dinner. My 9 year old daughter was grinning wide and kept saying “I can’t believe we are doing this”….spontaneous and exciting, it reminded me of the moments to live for. This was definitely one of them!
Last night we went swimming in the rain after dinner. My 9 year old daughter was grinning wide and kept saying “I can’t believe we are doing this”….spontaneous and exciting, it reminded me of the moments to live for. This was definitely one of them!
