Our Story: About Chili Flores

Chili Flores was born from a love story and a shared obsession with heat.

I'm Oracio, and I grew up in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, on my father's ranch in Tepatitlán. My childhood was spent close to the land, watching crops grow, nixtamalizing corn, and gathering around the kitchen as my mother, aunts, and neighbors each brought their own magic to every meal. Those early moments taught me that food is more than nourishment. It's tradition. It's community. It's love made visible.

When I moved to the Bay Area, I spent years working in restaurants, cafés, and catering kitchens across San Francisco and Oakland. And somewhere along the way, I met my wife. She's from Singapore and shared my deep love for bold, spicy flavors. Together, we discovered something beautiful: the cuisines of Mexico and Southeast Asia have more in common than you'd think. Chili oils. Crispy garlic. Aromatic herbs. Rich, comforting dishes meant to be shared.

Chili Flores is our way of bringing those two worlds together.

What We Make

Every jar of Chili Flores is handcrafted in small batches in Oakland, California. We use premium dried chilies, crispy fried shallots, golden garlic, and carefully sourced spices to create chili oils that are bold, layered, and unlike anything else on the shelf.

Our flavors draw from both of our heritages: smoky Morita and fiery Piquín from Mexico, bright Makrut lime leaf from Southeast Asia. The result is something familiar yet surprising. A new tradition.

Why We Do It

We believe food is a universal language. It bridges cultures, sparks curiosity, and brings people together around the table. Every jar of Chili Flores is an invitation to explore, to taste, and to connect.

This business is also a dream. It's a chance to build something meaningful, create opportunity for others, and share a piece of who we are with the world. Our two daughters inspire us daily to pursue that dream with heart and intention.

Our Values

Rooted in Family & Heritage
We honor our ancestors by staying true to traditional methods and quality ingredients.

Wholehearted Craftsmanship
Every batch is made with care, intention, and love. From recipe to label.

Curiosity & Growth
We're always learning, experimenting, and pushing the boundaries of flavor.

From Our Kitchen to Yours

Thank you for being part of our journey. Whether you drizzle our chili oil on noodles, tacos, eggs, or something we've never even imagined. We hope it brings a little more heat, soul, and joy to your table.

With love and spice,
Oracio & Family
Chili Flores, Oakland, CA