Francisco Bazo grew up in Lima, Peru. One of eleven children, Francisco started helping his mother in the kitchen at a very young age and found a genuine interest in cooking. While never professionally trained, Francisco's mother was a skilled cook and taught Francisco the importance of fresh ingredients, honoring the local bounty, and taking the time to make dishes from scratch.
Francisco’s father was an accomplished musician and his family was known in the community for entertaining. Throughout the year, friends and family from near and far gathered together at the Bazo house to celebrate good food, great company, and to dance.
Francisco moved to San Francisco in 1997 and immediately found a position at One Market Restaurant. Starting off as a dishwasher, he quickly made his way through the ranks and found that the bar and beverage program interested him most. He became involved in creating cocktails and found a new love, wine.
After holding a bartending position for over five years at One Market Restaurant, the Lark Creek Restaurant Group offered Francisco a management position at Lark Creek Restaurant in Walnut Creek. At the established eatery, he continued to impress ownership, who offered yet another opportunity for advancement, this time as the Bar Manager at One Market Restaurant.
Looking for a change, Francisco moved to Waterbar in 2010 and immediately became an integral part of the bar and beverage team, creating a loyal following of regulars and continuing to pursue his interest in food, drinks, and wine.
Francisco brings a new commitment to education as the Beverage Director at Waterbar. He is pursuing his own educational goals and is a Certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers. He is studying for the next exam and is involved in wine tasting groups and events in the local wine community. These achievements have motivated him to promote learning and staff education, and Francisco is an advocate for staff involvement and guides staff on trips to local wineries and breweries.
Francisco, his wife, and two daughters reside in Alameda. His love for entertaining is matched by his family and they are known to throw a great party. He and his family are actively involved in the community and whenever time allows, they love getting away for a camping or skiing trip.