August 19, 2019

Conversations with the Inspiring Elizabeth Plotke

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Plotke.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I opened my first restaurant in 1994 called Campo de Fiori in Aspen. When we first opened, we were met with tremendous acclaims, such as being written up in Esquire Magazine as one of the best new restaurants in the United States and featured in Wine Spectator, the restaurant has become one of the iconic places in Aspen.

At the end of last year, we decided to create Campo Catering with long-time Executive Chef, Giuseppe Garofalo and his sister Anna. This year, we were asked to cater the Food & Wine welcome event and it was a great experience.

We just received this article the other day talking about the uniqueness of what we are doing: https://www.aspentimes.com/magazines/aspen-times-weekly/food-matters-story-boards-from-campo-catering/

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The most important thing to remember is to stay in integrity with who you are. Be kind. Be respectful. Be collaborative. Know when you have great talent around you and allow them to fly and be their best.

What should we know about Campo Catering? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
In terms of my restaurant, we have managed to create one of the strongest teams in Aspen. Our GM, Dave Ellsweig, has been running Campo for 18 years, our Executive Chef, Giuseppe Garofalo, has been running the kitchen for 20, our bar manager has been 20 years and our lead waiter, 24 years.

In terms of the new concept of Campo Catering, we are creating the most extraordinary Italian food, but have modernized it, by taking ingredients and techniques we have found in our travels throughout the worlds and incorporating them into our recipes to have the most extraordinary flavors.

It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
I love anything inspirational… I love strong female figures.

Contact Info:

Address: 205 South Mill Street
Aspen, CO 81611
Website: www.campocatering.com
Phone: 970-948-6407
Instagram: Campo_aspen
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/campoaspen/?eid=ARCfRWie6WjxXbaXYV-AFfLoddM3W7dM7A-g1k58YMg3jcHXN7Q1rf0z9ALmmBJ0VYl-scFSJJfTiRSx
Other: www.campodefiori.net

Image Credit:
Anna Stonehouse

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