Eric Stapelman - Executive Chef
Nelli Maltezos - Chef

Chef Nelli Maltezos began her culinary career at Charlie Trotter's after receiving a degree in Marketing from Loyola University of Chicago. Nelli spent 2 years honing her skills with Chef Trotter, eventually becoming his assistant sous chef during her last twelve months at his restaurant.

In 1994, Nelli moved to Manhattan and soon after began collaborating with Eric Stapelman at his Mediterranean restaurant Zucca. Nelli and Eric celebrated food and wine with Mediterranean influences in New York's Chelsea neighborhood for 3 years.

Next, Nelli headed to Santa Fe to partner with Eric as they ventured into country French cuisine with their restaurant Rociada. During its four year run Rociada received many local and national accolades for its food and wine program.

On March 13, 2004, Nelli and Eric closed Rociada and on March 15, 2004, reopened with Trattoria Nostrani - serving classic Northern Italian fare. At Trattoria Nostrani the team of Nelli Maltezos and Eric Stapelman adhere to a career long philosophy of providing their guests with the finest dining experience possible by way of memorable food, delicious wine and thoughtful service.