about

theBOX Story

If home is where the heart is, then Caleb Lara's heart is always in two places: the Upper Connecticut River Valley where his kids are close by and the South Bay area of San Diego, California, home to his Mexican roots.

After graduating from The Culinary Institute of America in 2006, Caleb garnered over a decade of experience honing his craft and holding positions as Chef de Cuisine and Executive Chef in luxury restaurants and resorts throughout New England. From the Berkshires to Martha's Vineyard, and Lake Champlain to The Hanover Inn, it was mud season of 2021 a time of great uncertainty worldwide, that Caleb seized an opportunity to pursue his heart's true calling.

As fate would have it, a project known as theBOX Food Truck that began in 2014 by students at Dartmouth's Tuck School of Business was gearing up for new adventures too. With Caleb now in the driver's seat, this up-and-coming, chef owned and operated enterprise is bringing you elevated, casual fare with a SoCal flair.

Caleb's vision is simple: to bring a taste of his home—handcrafted Baja-Cali comfort food—to yours here in the Upper Valley. Experience flavors of his Mexican heritage through a time-honored tradition of wood-fired cooking.

Many have been a part of our journey thus far and for this we are grateful. A few special individuals are deserving personal recognition. Caleb wishes to thank his partner Donna, and friends Jarett and Bonnie for all their support along the way.