Meet Evan Cotton: Sous Chef of Preserve

Meet Evan Cotton: Sous Chef of Preserve

In the bustling kitchen of Preserve, you’ll find Evan Cotton, our talented sous chef. For the past six years, Evan has brought his passion for cooking and love for flavors to every dish he prepares, becoming an integral part of our culinary team.


A Little About Evan:

Favorite Dish at Preserve:

When asked about his favorite dish at Preserve, Evan mentions the octopus. This staple at Preserve is one of his favorites!

Culinary Preferences:

Evan has a deep appreciation for Spanish and Mexican cuisine.

Inspirations:

Evan looks up to several culinary greats. He admires Grant Achatz for his pioneering work in molecular gastronomy, Virgilio Martinez for his innovative use of local ingredients, and Jordy Rocha for his groundbreaking pastry creations. However, his biggest inspiration remains his family, who have always supported his culinary journey.

Dream Destinations:

If Evan could travel anywhere, he'd choose the Bahamas, Spain, or Chicago. Each of these places offers something unique, from beautiful beaches to incredible food scenes, sparking his imagination and culinary dreams.

Evan’s Journey to Preserve:

Evan’s journey to becoming a sous chef is truly inspiring. He recals that “It was out of necessity that I fell into the restaurant scene.” going further to state that he needed a job and started as a dishwasher. Just three days later, he began cooking, and now, eight or nine years down the line he is apart of the Preserve team. Evan states, “I'm proud to be here, having grown so much in this industry.”

His story is a testament to how hard work and determination can lead to great achievements.

Evan Cotton’s rise from dishwasher to sous chef exemplifies his dedication and passion for cooking. We are fortunate to have him as a vital part of the Preserve team.

Local Roots: Supporting the Winters FFA

Local Roots: Supporting the Winters FFA

On Sunday, January 14, 2024, Preserve became the stage for our one-of-a-kind "Smoke & Spirits" event. This immersive culinary journey combined the art of smoking dishes with a premium whiskey-tasting experience. The event, curated by our Executive Chef, Gene Hall, unfolded with a meticulously crafted menu featuring an oyster bar, charcuterie & cheese, porchetta, and perfectly smoked lamb, complemented by seasonal and locally sourced sides.



The highlight of the evening was our exclusive whiskey-tasting experience at Preserve's Back Bar, where we partnered with Buffalo Trace Distillery to offer a journey through distinguished whiskey flavors. Attendees enjoyed sipping on renowned spirits such as Sazerac Rye, Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey, Blanton's Bourbon, and a surprise pour of Traveler Whiskey, adding an element of excitement to the night.



Preserve's new locker membership platforms, ‘Select Reserve’ and ‘Premium Vault’ tiers, launched in December 2023, were unveiled during the "Smoke & Spirits" event. Locker members had the opportunity to pick up their first locker content package, adding another layer of excitement to the occasion.



What makes this event truly special is our collaboration with the Winters FFA (Future Farmers of America). We showcased our newest culinary addition, a custom BBQ, with the help of Winters High School student Colton Brown, who skillfully welded the BBQ alongside the high school's FFA program. This brought our vision to life and emphasized our commitment to supporting locals and enriching the youth in Winters.



Photo credit: Christian Duran



Preserving the good Life, 13 years later.

March of 2024 marked a milestone as we toast to 13 incredible years of Preserve!

From our initial team of 6 to a vibrant team of 45, we’ve journeyed together, committed to bringing you exceptional dining experiences seven days a week.

Celebrating this milestone, we’re looking at our past with gratitude to celebrate the unforgettable memories we’ve shared with our wonderful Preserve community.

Here’s to the past, the present, and the many years ahead at Preserve!

Cheers to 13 years!