The restaurant represents a full-circle moment for Chef Sebastian Becerra, a La Jolla High School graduate who spent nearly a decade working in prestigious kitchens across the country before returning to his hometown. His culinary journey included positions at several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Eleven Madison Park in New York City - during its recognition as World's Best Restaurant by San Pellegrino's 50 Best - as well as Coi and Rich Table in San Francisco.
Pepino, meaning "cucumber" in Spanish, carries personal significance for Becerra as it was his grandfather's nickname. The menu will reflect both his Peruvian heritage and his fine-dining background, featuring items such as a lomo saltado-inspired breakfast burrito and a lechon sandwich with salsa criolla and huancaina sauce. The establishment will partner with local vendors including Triumph Coffee Club.
Joining Becerra in the kitchen is sous chef Marissa Williams, whose own culinary background includes significant experience in San Diego's dining scene. Williams previously served as executive sous chef at Herb & Sea in Encinitas and, like Becerra, spent time at Herb & Wood in Little Italy. She brings to Pepino her expertise in sustainable fishing practices and strong connections to local seafood suppliers.
Pepino will initially focus on breakfast and lunch service, with plans to expand to early dinner hours featuring additional Peruvian dishes once established. The dinner menu will be complemented by beer and wine offerings.
The concept's journey from home kitchen to permanent restaurant location reflects the evolution of San Diego's culinary landscape during the pandemic. Pepino began as one of the area's first licensed MEHKOs (microenterprise home kitchen operations), operating as a "breakfast speakeasy" from Becerra's La Jolla residence before gaining popularity through word-of-mouth and social media exposure.
Pepino will open in the first half of 2025 at 7556 Fay Avenue in the Sycamore Court Center in La Jolla. For more information, visit pepinosd.com.
Originally published on December 24, 2024.
