About Chef Alex Velasco
Born and raised in the coastal town of Encinitas, California, Chef Alex Velasco developed an early appreciation for fresh ingredients and the vibrant flavors of Southern California. After high school, Chef Alex pursued a passion for food and hospitality by attending culinary school in Seattle. What began as an education quickly became a deep connection to the Pacific Northwest, where Chef Alex spent the next eight years working, creating, and exploring the city’s thriving food culture.
Eventually, the pull of home brought Chef Alex back to Encinitas, where family and community remain at the heart of life. Beyond the kitchen, Chef Alex is an avid gardener, cultivating everything from herbs and vegetables to native plants—always inspired by the connection between land, season, and table.
Chef Alex’s approach to cooking is heavily influenced by the places he has traveled and the memories shared around the table with family. Each dish Chef Alex creates is not only about fresh, seasonal ingredients, but also about telling a story and making a connection.
About Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Karl Strauss Brewing Company has been proudly independent since 1989, establishing San Diego's first craft brewery and igniting the rich craft beer scene in the city. Karl Strauss is known for its award-winning beers including cult classics like Red Trolley Ale and style varieties like Boat Shoes Hazy IPA and Tower X West Coast IPA. Karl Strauss distributes its beer across California, Arizona, and Nevada, and has 9 brewpub locations throughout Southern California from Downtown San Diego to Downtown LA.
