Inspired by his Peruvian mother, chef-owner James Schenk has offered the Bay Area residents his highly personal version of “Nuevo Latino” cooking since 2000 when he opened his ground breaking bistro Destino on upper Market Street, San Francisco (1815 Market St.) combining traditions from Central and South America with a thoroughly modern, California sensibility. Restaurant Realty is proud that they helped James secure his first location here.
With spiritual inspiration from the historic Bank Exchange Saloon of early 20th Century San Francisco, James has created Pisco Latin Lounge (next door to his successful Destino). In this location he solidifies his reputation as a master of Latin flavors in both food and drink – serving Latin inspired cocktails and modern tapas in a cutting edge ambiance that draws inspiration from similar spots in Barcelona, Lima and Buenos Aires.
James is well recognized in so many areas. His personal warmth has made him a media favorite with appearances in local shows Evening Magazine and KRON’s Latin Eyes as well as NBC’s Jane Pauley Show and Telemundo. His restaurant has been voted in the Top 50 Best Hispanic Restaurants Nationwide by Hispanic Magazine and Best Small Plates by Citysearch viewers several times. James is active in the San Francisco community where he regularly participates in a wide range of charitable social events including Glide Foundation Dine A Round, Black and White Ball, Slow Foods, and the Latino Community Annual Gala. James’ training at the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts in Vancouver has helped make him a sought after advisor on Latin foods. Best wishes to James on continued success in his various endeavors.