American Culinary Federation’s 2020

CHAPTER CHEF OF THE YEAR

We are proud to announce that Chef Cristian Pontiggia was recently named as the American Culinary Federation’s 2020 New Mexico Chapter Chef of the Year. We can’t think of anyone more deserving and could not be happier for him. Chef Cristian is now entitled to enter the regional and national competition to compete for USA Chef of the Year.

Sassella’s

A Trip To Italy Without Leaving Home

by Kelly Koepko

“SASSELLA’S REFRESHED, OPEN AIR PATIO is ready for both lunch and dinner service as Santa Fe’s spring and summer dining season is about to begin. The landscaping at the upscale Italian restaurant has been refreshed, the trees trimmed to shade the dog friendly courtyard…”

Sassella’s Patio

Makes Summertime Dining Easy.

by Kelly Koepko

SUMMERTIME IN SANTA FE means perfect weather for outdoor dining. The large patio at Sassella, with its leafy trees, rustic brick, exceptional pan-Italian cuisine and extensive wine list, is ideal for summer dining al fresco.

Sassella’s 

Soaring Success

Photos by Herschel Mair

“SINCE IT OPENED ON JULY 1ST OF LAST YEAR, Sassella has been wowing locals and tourists alike with its exceptional authentic Italian fare. Under the competent hand of acclaimed chef and co-owner Cristian Pontiggia…”

STILL THIRSTY

Article by Caitlin Richards
Photos by Kate Russell

“The cocktail menu was created by co-owner Lawrence Becerra ‘with gin as the focus. We have over 50 gins from around the world, including five Negronis, plus the Negroni Sbagliato’…”

Passion on the Palate

Article and Styling by Cyndy Tanner
Photos by Dominique Vorillon

“Chef Cristian Pontiggia accomplishes a myriad of tasks every day, including one sartorial ritual he performs each morning before leaving for work. He begins by opening a large wooden box housing his collection of 24 watches, pairing his selection with a complementary penknife from the 16 he owns. Then he chooses a pair of shoes to accompany the accessories.”

“This attention to aesthetic and detail personifies Chef Pontiggia’s approach to a fine dining experience. The award-winning chef has recently partnered with Lawrence and Suzanna Becerra…”

Sassella – True Italian with a twist

Photos by Herschel Mair

“’I LOVE EVERY REGION OF ITALY, and I’ve included on
Sassella’s menu several dishes only found in small towns throughout the country,’ says acclaimed chef and co-owner Cristian Pontiggia. In addition to working at two Michelin Star…”