Chef Raul Casillas

Week of November 28, 2026

Born in San Diego and raised between Tijuana and Mexicali, Raul’s culinary journey is deeply rooted in his family’s traditions. He grew up cooking alongside his grandmother, learning to make everything from fresh tortillas and salsas to chilaquiles and refried beans. His early experiences in the kitchen became a foundation for his passion, especially after the loss of his mother at a young age, which led him and his father to cook together out of necessity.

Raul pursued a business degree in California’s Central Valley before following his true passion for food, enrolling in Le Cordon Bleu in Las Vegas. His career took off in the city’s fine dining scene, spending six years at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, where he honed classic French techniques under esteemed mentors Steve Benjamin and Jonathan Buchan. However, his love for Mexican cuisine led him back to his roots, training under Chef Roberto Alcocer and opening Michelin-recognized Malva in Valle de Guadalupe. He later helped launch Valle in Oceanside in 2021, where he played a pivotal role in earning and maintaining its prestigious Michelin star within a year.

Now at Puesto, Raul brings a wealth of experience and culinary expertise and is excited to merge his deep respect for traditional Mexican flavors with modern innovation. He is particularly inspired by seasonal, high-quality ingredients, believing that great dishes should reflect the best of each season rather than forcing ingredients out of their prime. He has a deep appreciation for Hoja Santa, an aromatic Oaxacan herb, and loves incorporating it into bold, savory dishes. His Calabaza con spices dessert, inspired by his grandmother’s cooking, is a personal favorite.

Raul will be overseeing Puesto’s culinary evolution, with a focus on the upcoming spring and summer 2025 menu changes. He will primarily be based in Mission Valley and La Jolla, though his influence will extend across all Puesto locations including Northern California.

Outside the kitchen, Raul enjoys hiking, motorcycles, swimming, tennis, and, of course, indulging in great food and drinks. His journey—from learning the fundamentals in his grandmother’s kitchen to leading Michelin-starred restaurants—has shaped his thoughtful and inspired approach to cooking. At Puesto, he’s ready to balance authenticity with innovation, ensuring that the restaurant’s vibrant Mexican flavors continue to shine.