Dan Valerino
A seasoned hospitality professional, Dan Valerino has nearly two decades of restaurant experience. Valerino’s career began at the Desert Mountain Club where he grew into bartending and management roles at the luxury establishment. While overseeing multiple beverage programs, Valerino was a crucial element in the property’s recognition in 2012 as the most desirable country club in the world. Upon relocating to San Diego, Valerino has held multiple highly regarded positions including a role as general manager at La Jolla’s once sought after restaurant, The Hake. A certified sommelier, Valerino was instrumental in applying his acumen to elevate the restaurant’s wine program resulting in recognition
from Wine Spectator as well as San Diego Magazine’s Best of Service award. Prior to his current role, Valerino served as general manager at Little Italy’s lauded Juniper & Ivy which earned a prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand under his tenure. In 2020, Valerino founded Bottle Boon Consulting alongside former Juniper & Ivy Chef Joe Bower. Bottle Boon currently oversees operations at Green Acre in Sorrento Valley where he’s placed an emphasis on supporting winemakers who utilize organic, sustainable farming practices. In the coming year Valerino will debut Finca, a California tapas restaurant in the North Park neighborhood.