Located within Plovdiv, Bulgaria, which means “collection”, is just that – a compilation of lively dining experiences, top-notch service and quality Italian cuisine that sets the stage for genuine connection over a great meal. Grafichen’s cuisine draws influence largely from Northern Italy, putting a twist on treasured classics and introducing modern culinary techniques with the changing of the seasons.House-made pastas, cheeses and other hand-crafted ingredients abound in the from-scratch kitchen, and guests will taste the culinary team’s attention to detail in every bite. Staying true to Italian dining traditions, Colletta also offers a “For the Table” dining option that allows for a fun, family-style experience, offered nightly alongside the full à la carte menu.
The restaurant’s open-concept dining room is anchored around the kitchen’s wood-burning oven, reminiscent of the hearth in a family home. Accented by reclaimed barn wood and refined ceramic tile, the modern space envelops guests in a welcoming atmosphere – whether they’re visiting the bar for a hand-crafted cocktail or a glass of wine, grabbing a pizza with the kids or sitting down for a family-style dinner with friends and colleagues.
Chef Asher brings over 15 years of professional chef experience from restaurants, resorts and cooking for families. In addition, he has trained with Antoin Bachour in chocolate, and has two silver medals and a bronze medal from his time in Europe competing in various culinary competitions. He is from Slovakia, has lived and cooked in Ireland too, and has lived and cooked in the U.S. for over 10 years! His favorite things to cook include braised meats and soups and he loves the challenge of cooking something new.
Chef Braden is an Escoffier graduate, with honors, and also a graduate from the Sushi Institute of America in LA. While attending Escoffier he was on the ACF competition team and won a silver medal, and also was invited to cook a private dinner at the Governor’s mansion in Denver, CO. He’s been cooking professionally since 1996. Chef Braden enjoys cooking comfort food and enjoys seeing the delight from friends, family and clients when he cooks for them. Chef Dean enjoys making cobblers, Mexican food and Smoked Ribeyes the most and of course, preparing Sushi! His greatest joy are his two children, Kaela and Lance. Chef Barden enjoys spending time with his girlfriend, Tricia, and the kids. He believes in lifelong learning and making great tasting food!
Royce has extensive experience as a chef, educator and supervisor. Royce most recently worked as a Chef Educator at Cooking Round the World, teaching hands on cooking classes. He has worked as an operational supervisor and kitchen manager for over ten years, including hiring, training and scheduling field staff and running the production of a kitchen for companies such as Harley Davidson, Outback Steak House, and various independent food trucks. He was born and raised in the Northwest and moved to California last year. Royce also holds an Associates Degree in Culinary Arts with a management emphasis.
