“

Catalyst is a program developed by EDENS to discover, launch, foster and sustain a community of culinary talent.

EDENS, a national retail real estate developer, founded EDENS Catalyst as part of its purpose to enrich community by providing aspiring chefs the opportunity to launch their first brick and mortar location with access to resources, mentorship and a network of culinary professionals. The program works with emerging chefs to bring their personal inspiration and vision to life while building a bridge to the local community through events, classes, and collaborations and an industry network for support and promotion. Catalyst launched in January 2020 in Washington, DC with plans to expand nationally.

In the midst of a city-wide shutdown and historic social uprising, Ethiopian born and French-trained Chef Elias Taddesse, will open his first full service restaurant, Mélange, at EDENS CityVista in Washington, DC.

Chef Elias Taddesse has an impressive resume following his studies at the Institut Paul Bocuse in Lyon, France. He is the former Executive Chef of the Michelin-starred Caviar Russe in New York and Chef de partie at the 2 Michelin star restaurant, Corton, also in New York, under acclaimed Chef Paul Liebrant, a master of molecular gastronomy.

With the launch of EDENS Catalyst, Elias is the inaugural partner of the program with the opening of Mélange as his first brick and mortar restaurant. EDENS and Chef Taddesse history first began at Union Market, where he launched his pop-up Salt N’ Pepper in 2016 and created his famous burger sourced from Harvey’s Market, a Union Market District establishment since 1971.

As the city reopens post-pandemic, Chef Taddesse will invite guests to experience the flavors of his Ethiopian-infused fine French cuisine bringing his heritage, story and vision to life. Follow Chef Taddesse’s journey @melange_dc.

EXPLORE MÉLANGE

Congrats to Chef Elias Taddesse @eliastad, of @melange_DC + @EDENSCatalyst!
2021 DC Eater Awards’ Chef of The Year!

Stay in the Know | Catalyst Updates

Follow Us For Updates and News @EDENSCatalyst