Bienvenidos a Bocanova
Bocanova, A Pan-American Grill & Restaurant, where we honor the vibrant flavors of the New World. Here, we celebrate ingredients that have shaped the heart of global cuisines, many of which were born in the Americas but have become staples in kitchens from Italy to Asia. Imagine Italy without the rich warmth of corn (polenta) or the juicy sweetness of tomatoes, or Ireland without the humble potato. Picture France without the crisp snap of haricots vert or the delicate taste of pole beans—each of these beloved ingredients hails from the New World.
What would Asian cuisine be without the bold kick of peppers or the satisfying comfort of rice? This is just a taste of the treasure trove of New World flavors we bring to your table.
At our restaurant, we invite you to indulge in a creative exploration of dishes from South, Central, and North America. Our aim is simple: to create an atmosphere where you can nourish both body and soul, sharing delicious, innovative meals with friends and family in a relaxed, welcoming space.
Come for the flavors, stay for the experience.
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Rick Hackett
CHEF/OWNER
Chef Rick is a classically trained chef whose career spans some of the Bay Area’s most celebrated kitchens, including Chez Panisse, Bay Wolf, Postrio, and Florio. He served as the opening Executive Chef for both Oliveto and MarketBar, and was the Executive Chef and Owner of Enrico’s, Tavolino, and Bandol in San Francisco’s North Beach. Deepening his craft even further, Rick honed his bread-baking skills while working at the renowned Acme Bread Company.
In 2009, Rick opened the original Bocanova in Jack London Square. He later returned to MarketBar as Executive Chef while laying the groundwork for Bocanova’s reopening. Drawing on decades of leadership, a deep understanding of the restaurant business, and an unwavering passion for exceptional ingredients and dishes, Rick brings a fresh, inspired vision to Pan-American cuisine—showcasing the very best that California has to offer.
Martin Ladera
GM/OWNER
Born in Peru and raised in Japan, Martin brings a truly global perspective to Bocanova— one shaped by a lifetime immersed in diverse cultures, flavors, and traditions. This unique upbringing exposed him early on to a broad spectrum of culinary styles, instilling in him an appreciation for both the precision of Japanese cuisine and the bold, expressive flavors of Latin America.
With more than 25 years experience in the restaurant industry, Martin has held key roles at some of the Bay Area’s most respected establishments. His career includes landmark restaurants such as MarketBar in the San Francisco Ferry Building and Poggio Trattoria in Sausalito, as well as the Cheesecake Factory’s flagship location in Walnut Creek, where he was a member of the opening team. These experiences helped shape his foundation in hospitality, operations, and guest-focused service.
A trained sommelier, Martin is passionate about introducing guests to Pan-American wines and spirits. His curated selections highlight standout producers from Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Mexico, and Peru, thoughtfully paired to enhance the dishes. When it comes to cocktails, guests can expect Bocanova’s Pisco Sour—crafted with authenticity and care—to rank among the best in the Bay Area.
