Chef and owner Charlie Abowd’s passion for food began at an early age -- he virtually grew up in a restaurant!

Charlie’s philosophy about food is simple: Use only the best ingredients. That means organic, hormone-free beef, chicken and lamb, as well the finest sustainable seafood. Organic and locally grown produce is a mainstay on his menus; Charlie is an avid backer of Carson City’s farmer’s markets and buys much of his produce from nearby farms. 

Over the years, he has also developed strong relationships with the best fishmongers around. Charlie’s love of fresh seafood is evident on his menus, which regularly feature creative seafood dishes based on the best seafood available.

Charlie’s culinary skills are known well beyond Carson City. He was invited to cook at the legendary James Beard house in New York City, a huge honor and challenge! Charlie and his crew delivered a wonderful meal to rave reviews. You can watch a video of the memorable evening on this site.

Charlie’s love of good food is almost matched by his love of music and art, and he enjoys using the restaurant as showcase for the arts. He believes that enjoying good food, music and the arts are key to enjoying life.

Karen Abowd’s passion for food is matched only by her passion for helping the community; she’s the driving force behind many Carson City projects. The next time you admire the beautiful flower baskets that now line Carson Street, you can thank Karen for launching that initiative!

She’s also breaking new ground with the Greenhouse Project. The completely self-sustaining greenhouse will be the first of its kind in Nevada. Karen’s years of work with children’s organizations made her keenly aware that too many kids don’t have access to fresh produce. That realization led to the Greenhouse Project, which will allow local children to tend gardens and in the process learn about sustainable and organic farming – and about making healthy food choices. The produce they grow will then help feed local families. With the support of the city and other community groups, the greenhouse is on track to open in 2010.

Karen has a strong background in design and art. She currently serves on the Carson City Arts Commission and is very active in promoting the local arts community. Her sharp eye for design is also evident in the restaurant; over the years, she has worked to maintain the building’s vintage feel while at the same time expanding and renovating the restaurant.

Veteran food and wine industry professional Anthony Kingsland is now manning the front of the house at Carson City’s popular Adele’s Restaurant & Lounge.

Kingsland has spent the last 20 years honing his skills at some of the region’s most respected dining establishments including Reno’s Rapscallion, The Stonehouse Café and Charlie Palmer Steak. Additionally, Kingsland owned a wine shop in Sparks and has earned distinguished second level sommelier designation. As floor manager, he oversees daily restaurant operations and staffing, as well as Adele’s wine program and special events.

“I’m excited to be here at Adele’s,” Kingsland said.  “I was born in Gardnerville so I feel a real connection to not only Carson City, but to Adele’s in particular.”

Kingsland looks forward to putting his own “thumbprint” on the iconic restaurant’s wine list. “I’d like to incorporate more value wines from around the world; great wines at great prices,” he explained.

Riffing off his deep wine industry knowledge, Kingsland also hopes to spearhead some educational wine and food pairing events at Adele’s.