Cathy Whims

Cathy Whims

Cathy Whims at Nostrana

Cathy Whims is a renowned American chef and restaurateur based in Portland, Oregon. She is best known for her expertise in Italian cuisine and her role as the executive chef and co-owner of several acclaimed restaurants in Portland, including Nostrana, Oven and Shaker, and Enoteca Nostrana.

Early Life and Education

Cathy Whims was born and raised in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Her passion for cooking was evident from a young age, inspired by her family's love for food and her experiences in the kitchen with her mother. Whims pursued her culinary education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she studied art history and Italian language. Her academic background in Italian culture and language laid the foundation for her future career in Italian cuisine.

Culinary Career

Early Career

Whims began her culinary career in the 1980s, working in various kitchens across the United States. Her early experiences included working under the mentorship of Alice Waters at Chez Panisse in Berkeley, California. This experience profoundly influenced her cooking style, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and simple, yet elegant preparations.

Nostrana

Nostrana restaurant interior

In 2005, Cathy Whims opened Nostrana in Portland, Oregon. The restaurant quickly gained a reputation for its authentic Italian dishes, featuring handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. Nostrana has been recognized as one of Portland's top dining destinations and has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the best Italian restaurants in the United States.

Oven and Shaker

Oven and Shaker exterior

In 2011, Whims co-founded Oven and Shaker, a pizzeria and cocktail bar in Portland's Pearl District. The restaurant is known for its creative pizzas and innovative cocktail program, blending Whims' culinary expertise with a vibrant bar scene. Oven and Shaker has become a popular spot for both locals and visitors, celebrated for its lively atmosphere and delicious offerings.

Enoteca Nostrana

In 2017, Whims expanded her culinary empire with the opening of Enoteca Nostrana, a wine bar and restaurant adjacent to Nostrana. Enoteca Nostrana focuses on Italian wines and small plates, offering a more casual dining experience while maintaining the high standards of quality and authenticity that Whims is known for.

Culinary Philosophy

Cathy Whims is a proponent of the slow food movement, advocating for sustainable practices and the use of local, organic ingredients. Her cooking style is characterized by a deep respect for traditional Italian techniques, combined with a modern sensibility that highlights the natural flavors of each ingredient. Whims' dedication to her craft and her commitment to excellence have made her a respected figure in the culinary world.

Awards and Recognition

Cathy Whims has been nominated multiple times for the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: Northwest, reflecting her significant contributions to the culinary scene in Portland and beyond. Her restaurants have been featured in numerous publications, including Bon Appétit, The New York Times, and Food & Wine.

Personal Life

Whims resides in Portland, Oregon, where she continues to innovate and inspire through her culinary endeavors. She is actively involved in the local food community and supports various charitable organizations focused on food security and sustainability.

Related Pages

• Nostrana
• Oven and Shaker
• Enoteca Nostrana
• Italian cuisine
• James Beard Foundation Award