ABOUT US

Nuvo was founded in 1994 by Clarisse Voss, a classically trained pastry chef with a love for bold flavors, modern aesthetics, and unconventional desserts. What began as a modest bakery café quickly became one of Seattle’s most beloved spaces for celebrations, collaborations, and late-night inspiration.

Clarisse passed away unexpectedly on November 2, 1996, due to complications during childbirth, leaving behind her husband and newborn infant. Though her time at Nuvo was brief, her spirit continues to inspire everything we do—from the color of our seasonal macarons to the rose-topped cakes that became her signature.

Today, Nuvo is operated by a dedicated team who remain committed to Clarisse’s original vision: elegance without pretense, creativity without limits, and food that tells a story.

At the helm of Nuvo’s kitchen is Chef Medina Caldwell, whose culinary vision brings Clarisse’s legacy to life in every dish. A classically trained chef with a background in fine dining, Medina blends global flavors with modern techniques to craft a menu that’s both inventive and deeply rooted in tradition. From the delicate balance of our Pan-Seared Sea Bass to the bold flavors of our Baby Kale Caesar, her creations honor the ethos that built Nuvo: thoughtful, fearless, and always a little unexpected.

Whether it’s a comforting French Onion Soup or a late-night slice of rose-topped cake, Medina ensures that every plate is a story worth sharing.