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Ryan Burchett at Casa Denogean
Just about everyone has some kind of memory of their grandmother’s cooking or learning how to cook from their grandmother. For Ryan Burchett he has been able to live his grandmother’s dream and keep her recipes alive for all to enjoy.
Ryan is the grandson of our local culinary superstar Ezparanza Denogean or Nana D as many in the community know her. She opened Casa Denogean on Hwy. 60 15 years ago. As a teenager, Ryan enjoyed spending time helping his Nana in the restaurant. “I would help bus tables and prep food. I really like to serve people,” he said.
Today at a young 26 years old, he is the manager of Casa Denogean. Ryan earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Management and he decided to put it to use by running his grandmother’s restaurant. He plans to keep the recipes as close as possible to his Nana’s recipes and continue to improve on service. His plans for the future of the restaurant includes expanding the restaurant and offering beer and wine. Ryan kept a majority of the staff who have been working in the restaurant to ensure the food quality remains the same.
The long days of restaurant owner doesn’t bother Ryan. He enjoys participating in all aspects of the business including cooking, prep, serving others and of course the back office operations that all businesses have to conduct.
Ryan’s advice to his fellow entrepreneurs and business owners: “ Don’t be afraid to take chances and go for what you want to do.”
The “In Your Biz” column is sponsored weekly by the Superior Chamber of Commerce in an effort to further promote their business members. To learn more about the Superior Chamber of Commerce you can visit their website www.superiorarizonachamber.org or call them at 520-689-0200. The Chamber meets the third Wednesday of every month at their building 165 Main St. in Superior, Arizona. Those planning on attending the Chamber luncheons do need to RSVP prior to the meeting, please call Deb McKee to RSVP at 520-827-1773.
Article compiled by Mila Besich-Lira for Superior Sun – Copper Area News Publishers.
Mila Besich is a resident of Superior with two children. She volunteers for many local organizations. She is an experienced fundraiser and event planner for Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition. She covers some of the area town councils and schools.
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