Aspen’s Ellina: A 15-year tale of local flavor and tradition

Ellina is celebrating 15 years of exceptional service, culinary creativity, and a commitment to preserving the spirit of local dining. On Wednesday, Dec. 11, Ellina is offering half-off food to show its appreciation to the Aspen community.

Since opening its doors in 2009, Ellina has remained a locally-owned restaurant, surviving and thriving in a town known for its ever-evolving restaurant landscape. While many dining establishments come and go, Ellina has stood the test of time, thanks to a combination of passionate ownership, a talented team, and a loyal community of diners. Its owner, Jill Carnevale, has been with Ellina since opening night, first as a sommelier, then as manager before buying the restaurant in 2017.

“When we first opened, we were the new kids on the block, alongside longstanding institutions like Pinons, L’Hostaria, Jimmy’s, Cache Cache, and Campo,” said Jill Carnevale, the restaurant’s owner, in a press release. “To still be here 15 years later, offering the same high-quality, locally-inspired fare, feels like a real accomplishment. We are fortunate to have such a supportive landlord and a local community that values small, independently-owned businesses. It’s not always easy in a place like Aspen, but we’ve worked hard to create a space that hopefully reminds locals of the Aspen of old, with a sense of tradition and timeless hospitality.”

Miguel Diaz, Ellina’s 15-year executive chef, has redefined contemporary Italian-American cuisine with a Mediterranean-inspired menu that offers inventive interpretations of traditional Italian-American dishes.

The restaurant’s menu has evolved over the years, but some dishes have remained beloved staples. The Artichoke Bruschetta, made with a fresh egg from Day Spring Farm, has been a fan favorite since day one. New offerings range from a hearty handmade lasagna with lamb ragù and Scamorza cheese to a refined Atlantic halibut with cremini mushrooms, fennel-leek broth, and littleneck clams.

Ellina’s award-winning wine list, expertly curated by sommelier and owner Jill Carnevale, features selections from around the world, with a special emphasis on Italian wines. Each bottle is chosen to pair with Chef Miguel Diaz’s menu. At the bar, guests can enjoy craft cocktails with a twist, often highlighting Italian ingredients.

In celebration of its anniversary, Ellina is introducing a new cocktail: the Fico al Fuoco (Italian for “Fig on Fire”). This hot drink features Citadelle Gin, house-made fig syrup, cane sugar, star anise, and green tea—a unique and warming addition to the drink menu that celebrates the season’s flavors.

As Ellina looks to the future, the goal is to continue providing an inviting and memorable dining experience for all guests, while maintaining its roots as an independent restaurant. The team remains committed to supporting the Aspen community and honoring the values of authenticity, quality, and hospitality that have guided them from the beginning

“The longevity of this restaurant is a testament to the hard work of the entire team and the support we’ve received from both locals and visitors alike,” Carnevale said. “Cheers to 15!”

For reservations or more information, visit ellinaaspen.com.