Louis Zalesjak

OBITUARY

Louis Zalesjak, 91, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2026. Louis was surrounded by those he loved most, including his nephew, Sasha Krstich, and long-time business partner, Mark Kescenovitz.

Louis was the owner and lifeblood of the Maître D’ restaurant in La Jolla for 32 years. At the Maître D’, Louis created an old-world fine dining extravaganza for his guests and friends featuring, among many other unique offerings, fruit-marinated vodka, sorbet served in ice sculptures, tableside preparation of flambe’ entrees and desserts, and live music by a pianist accompanied – later in the evening – by Louis on his tambourine. Anyone who had the privilege of dining at the Maître D’ surely was enchanted by Louis and the memorable experiences that Louis, joined by Mark and Sasha, orchestrated for their loyal guests over three decades.

Louis was born on March 19, 1935 in Arandjelovac, Serbia, and identified as Slovenian. Louis began livening the dining experience of his local communities at a young age, working his way through the world. Louis was a hotelier, who managed and opened hotels and restaurants in Belgrade, Vienna, Montreal, Bangkok and the Plaza Hotel in New York, among others. He opened and managed Westin Hotels and also worked for the Diplomatic Core. Louis had especially fond memories of his time in Thailand, where King Bhumidol Adulyadej requested Louis’s service for many special occasions and gifted him a cherished diamond encrusted gold ring in a show of gratitude for the memories Louis helped create.

In the 1970s, Louis was asked to revamp the famed Arnaud’s restaurant in New Orleans, where Louis met Mark. Louis and Mark came to La Jolla and opened the Maître D’ in 1982. It soon became a landmark with his festive Mardi Gras celebrations and magnificent Christmas decorations, including Louis’ train set chugging around the tree. Louis closed the Maître D’ in 2014, to enjoy his retirement.

In addition to Sasha and Mark, Louis is survived by his sister Vesna in Serbia and his nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews and other family members in Serbia and Slovenia. Louis will be forever missed by his family and many friends. Rest in peace, Louis. The wonderful memories you gave us will live on.