Chef Roberto Alcocer Nominated for James Beard Best Chef: California Award

Chef Roberto Alcocer, the visionary behind the MICHELIN-starred Valle in Oceanside, has been nominated for the prestigious James Beard Best Chef: California award.

This honor recognizes his dedication to showcasing Baja California cuisine in Southern California, blending traditional flavors with modern culinary artistry.

“Four years ago, I came to this country with the dream of sharing my Mexican cuisine,” says Chef Roberto Alcocer. “Being nominated for the James Beard Best Chef: California award in such a short time fills me with immense pride, joy, and motivation to continue honoring my roots through my dishes.

This nomination is not just for me but for all the Latinos who work tirelessly in kitchens across the U.S. I’m incredibly grateful to my Oceanside community for their continuous support.”

A Culinary Journey Rooted in Passion

With over 20 years of experience working in top kitchens across Mexico, France, and Spain, Chef Roberto Alcocer has long been committed to elevating authentic Mexican cuisine.

In 2021, he opened Valle with the goal of introducing his refined take on Baja flavors to Southern California’s coast. Under his leadership, the restaurant earned its first MICHELIN star in 2023 and maintained it in 2024, cementing its status as a premier dining destination.

Valle’s eight-course tasting menu is a testament to Alcocer’s culinary philosophy—seasonally driven, locally sourced, and deeply inspired by Baja California’s rich gastronomy.

The restaurant partners with Oceanside and San Diego purveyors to ensure the freshest ingredients, while its extensive wine list highlights top producers from Mexico, including exclusive bottles from Chef Roberto Alcocer’s own vineyard.

A Community Win and a Celebration of Latino Talent

Beyond his personal achievement, this nomination represents a broader recognition of Latino chefs shaping the U.S. culinary landscape. Chef Roberto Alcocer’s work at Valle not only showcases the depth of Mexican cuisine but also paves the way for future generations of chefs.

For more information about Valle and Chef Roberto Alcocer, visit here or follow along on Instagram.