Description

innovative culinary style and Michelle's business savvy were a natural combination.

Together, they created "Sunday Afternoons in Chef Don's Kitchen," intimately designed cooking classes held in their private kitchen monthly. Each class was a showcase for the culinary delights of the Pacific Northwest and culminated with an intimate dinner with the Chef. The classes sold out each month and attracted the attention of Gourmet magazine, who hired the duo to teach two private classes and selected Don as the local Celebrity Chef for their "Treated Famously" event.

Opening their own restaurant was their next goal. Their vision was to create a warm, inviting experience, offering dishes that underscore the interplay between the Northwest and Italy: local foods married with thousands of years of Italian tradition. On a trip through Tuscany, they were captivated by the hill-top city of Volterra. It became the setting for their wedding and the inspiration for their new venture.

Volterra's charm lies not only in its history but in the peaceful surrounding countryside where statuesque cypress trees, grain-filled plains and magnificent rolling hills enhance a slow, traditional way of life. Fresh ingredients are abundant down every narrow cobblestone street — from the tiny fresh produce stand to the traditional butcher shop.

The town of Volterra sparks a culinary idea at every turn and was the inspiration of Chef Curtiss' menu. Chandeliers, sconces, and hanging alabaster light fixtures designed by Michelle and carved by artisans in Volterra adorn the restaurant, paying tribute to the many friends Michelle and Don have made. With Don's 20 years of culinary success complemented by Michelle's business savvy and sparkling personality in the front of the house, the duo aspire to bring the warmth and charm of Tuscany to Seattle's Historic Ballard Neighborhood.

Hours of Operation

Lunch: Saturday - Sunday: 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Dinner: Monday - Thursday: 5:00pm - 10:00pm, Friday - Saturday: 5:00pm - 12:00am, Sunday: 5:00pm - 9:00pm
Brunch: Saturday - Sunday: 9:00am - 2:00pm