If there’s anyone who leads a busy life it’s Nube (pronounced New-bay) Siquenza, owner/chef of Cava Wine Bar in New Canaan. Cava won Best of New Canaan-Darien this year for Best Special Occasion/Date Night venue.
Nube lives in Weston and in addition to running the show at Cava she is also mom to two teenage daughters ages 14 and 16. Here she shares a little bit about herself from what she eats for breakfast to her favorite ways to catch up with her kids.
What made you want to become a chef/restaurant owner?
I’ve loved cooking since I was a young girl. It was my love of good food and my passion for cooking that led me to become a chef/restaurant owner.
How long have you been in the business?
I have been in the business for almost 20 years now.
Favorite ingredients for romantic meal…
My favorite romantic meal consists of filet mignon in a balsamic reduction, Chilean Sea Bass, fresh farm to table vegetables, a flavorful medium bodied red wine and a rich, dark chocolate dessert.
Most unusual request from patron for special occasion…
My most unusual request was from a patron who wanted a Hawaiian Luau theme party, including Hawaiian Food, and our staff to be dressed in Hawaiian clothing. It was my most challenging task to date and also the most rewarding because I learned how to cook Hawaiian AND I had one of the best times of my life!
What is your schedule like?
My schedule is hectic! Many hours go into running a restaurant. As the chef/owner, I have a 10-12 hour work day and almost ALWAYS work on weekends. A typical day includes accepting deliveries, placing orders, planning menus and specials, cooking, managing the kitchen and dining room staff and customer service.
What do you do to unwind?
I read to unwind. I love reading books about food and cooking but I especially love to read about alternative medicine and nutrition. I strongly believe that eating well is a big part of staying healthy.
Breakfast consists of…
A fruit and yogurt smoothie or a vegetable omelet.
What is your favorite way to spend time with your daughters?
We like to go to the beach and water parks. We also love traveling and exploring different cultures, traditions and foods.
Favorite local or non-profit event…
One of my favorite non-profit events is the CLASP Homes Taste of Westport in May. It’s one that I have done for several years, and CLASP does an excellent and very professional job. I also love seeing my fellow Chefs and tasting their food!
Unfulfilled ambition…
I would love to go back to school to study nutrition and teach people about healthy eating habits!
What do you wish you had more time for?
I wish I had more time to spend with my family.
Go-to wine…
A medium bodied red wine
Guilty pleasure…
My most guilty pleasure is Rich Dark Chocolate.
Thoughts on Fairfield County…
I love Fairfield County. It has a lot to offer in terms of education and entertainment. It is also a great place to raise children.