Chef Javier Plascencia and Team to “Reinterpret” Casa Vega Menu

Michelin-starred chef Javier Plascencia, who is internationally recognized for helping define modern Baja cuisine, will soon share his magic with another restaurant, Casa Vega in Sherman Oaks, California. But this isn’t your typical chef visit – Plascencia’s cousin is Christy Vega, the third-generation owner of Casa Vega, and Plascencia will reinterpret his cousin’s menu with the region's vibrant ingredients, traditions, and contemporary flavors.

The one-night event will occur on Friday, July 31. Plascencia has assembled a team of chefs, wine professionals, and collaborators whose work reflects the creativity and culinary identity of northern Mexico. Together, they will transform Casa Vega into a celebration of Baja's food, wine, and hospitality while honoring the shared heritage that has long connected the Vega family on both sides of the border.

Joining Plascencia will be Michelin-starred chef and cousin Oscar Torres; Michelin-recognized sommelier and cousin Loren Plascencia; acclaimed chefs Colibrí Jiménez, Norah de Vegaz, and Melissa Navarro; and celebrated Bruma winemaker Lulu Martínez—representing not only family by blood, but also the "familia you make."

Throughout the evening, guests will experience Casa Vega in an entirely new way. A limited-time à la carte and prix fixe menu will be complemented by a Baja oyster station, curated Baja wine pairings, and culinary activations throughout the restaurant, including the newly opened Ray Vega Patio. Following the July 31st event, the residency will continue with select reenvisioned dishes offered through the month of August.

"Casa Vega has always been about family," Vega says. "This evening is especially meaningful because we're opening our doors to our own family. Javier isn't simply a guest chef—he's my cousin. Oscar is family. Loren is family. They also happen to be among Mexico's most accomplished culinary professionals, but before any of that, they're the people I've shared holidays, milestones, and meals with. Guests won't simply dine at Casa Vega—they'll be welcomed to our family table for one unforgettable night. That's something you can't manufacture. It's authentic, deeply personal, and a celebration of the Mexico that has always been part of Casa Vega's story."

The evening also serves as one of the signature celebrations of Casa Vega's 70th anniversary year, honoring a restaurant that has remained family-owned since 1956 while looking toward the future of Mexican cuisine through one of its most influential culinary families.

EVENT DETAILS

Casa Vega Presents: Familia, A Baja Residency 

Date: Friday, July 31, 2026

Time: 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. 

Location: Casa Vega13301 Ventura BoulevardSherman Oaks, CA 

Pricing: a la carte offerings available in addition to a pre fixe menu for those looking to experience all reimagined dishes priced at $150 per guest

For Reservations  CLICK HERE 

Reservation Policy: Casa Vega to charge $50 per guest if you cancel, reduce your party size, or fail to attend within 72 hours of your reservation. This fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. Applicable OpenTable service fees may also apply.  

FEATURED CULINARY TALENT

** Javier Plascencia: A Michelin-starred chef and one of Mexico’s most influential culinary leaders, internationally recognized for helping define modern Baja cuisine.

** Oscar Torres: A Michelin-starred chef and Baja California culinary talent, head chef at Animalon, which earned a Michelin star.

** Lauren Plascencia: A Michelin-starred sommelier from Mexico, bringing thoughtful wine pairings and deep Baja hospitality to the evening.

** Colibrí Jiménez: An acclaimed celebrity chef celebrating the flavors, ingredients, and traditions of Mexico with cookbooks and has a TV show on Netflix.

** Norah de Vegaz: A celebrated Baja culinary figure and founder of Casa Ibérico.

** Chef Melissa Navarro: A Baja California chef and advocate for sustainable seafood and regional Mexican cuisine.** Lulu Martínez: A celebrated winemaker at Bruma Winery and one of Mexico’s pioneering female winemakers.

ABOUT CASA VEGA

Founded in 1956, Casa Vega has been one of Los Angeles’ most beloved Mexican restaurants for nearly seven decades. Still family-owned and operated by the Vega family, the Sherman Oaks institution has welcomed generations of Angelenos, celebrities, and visitors while remaining rooted in the traditions of Mexican hospitality.

As Casa Vega celebrates its 70th anniversary, the restaurant continues to honor its heritage while creating new traditions, including the recent opening of the Ray Vega Patio and the dedication of Vega Family Square by the City of Los Angeles in recognition of the family’s lasting impact on the city’s culinary and cultural landscape.