Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel, announces the appointment of a new Executive Chef, Robert Trester, at the property’s oceanfront restaurant, Pequín Coastal Cocina, sitting in the heart of the California Central Coast. Under Chef Trester’s leadership, the restaurant will continue to build off of its menu of bold Baja coastal flavors through a vibrant menu of fresh seafood, grilled meats, and locally sourced ingredients inspired by the versatility and spice of its namesake, the pequín pepper. Pequín Coastal Cocina, located just steps from the sand, will enter a new chapter shaped by Trester’s approach to coastal cuisine, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and flavors inspired by the California Central Coast.
Chef Trester has spent decades leading world-class hotel dining programs after getting his start at The American Club in Kohler, Wisconsin — home to Kohler Food & Wine, the nationally recognized culinary festival that draws acclaimed chefs, winemakers and food personalities from across the country. Since then, he has served as Corporate Chef at Mason Bar and Kitchen and Executive Chef at several coveted hotels, including Inn at the Pier in Pismo Beach, Hotel Figueroa in Downtown Los Angeles, The W Hollywood, and Kimpton La Peer Hotel in West Hollywood.
“Chef Robert Trester brings exceptional culinary leadership from some of California's most prestigious hotels,” said Luis Mendoza, General Manager of Vespera Resort. “His fresh vision allows us to elevate Pequín Coastal Cocina’s culinary identity while remaining fiercely loyal to the relaxed, beachside spirit of Pismo Beach.”
Over the years, Pequín Coastal Cocina has become a gathering place for both hotel guests and locals, offering breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and happy hour across three distinct settings, including an open-air patio, a stylish indoor dining room, and a beachfront terrace with live music and specialty dinners. Signature dishes include Short Rib Birria Enchiladas and Ancho Chile Grilled Pork Chop, as well as Masa Gnocchi for a twist on the traditional dish, featuring roasted corn, poblano, cherry tomatoes, Fresno pepper, cilantro, queso fresco, and cotija. Set against sweeping ocean views, the restaurant pairs its beachside setting and bold flavors with a lively atmosphere shaped by the relaxed rhythm of California’s Central Coast.
Situated along Pismo Beach’s famous stretch of surf, sand and sun, Vespera Resort celebrates the best of California’s beach culture. The 124-key resort features an oceanfront lawn with a heated pool, spa tub, and firepits perched over the Pacific. Immersive programming connects the hotel and dining experiences, from private firepit gatherings on Starlight Lawn to seasonal celebrations, live music weekends, and seasonal wine dinners.
For those who want to explore off-property, Vespera Resort is set just steps from the sand at Pismo Beach and embodies the nostalgia of a classic California beach town, where surf shops, saltwater taffy counters, vintage boutiques, and sunset pier strolls recall an earlier era of coastal charm.
