Coming to the Taste: Bricia Lopez

There are two things second-generation restaurateur Bricia Lopez can’t live without -- mole and Mezcal. She comes by those loves naturally as her family is the owner of the landmark Guelaguetza restaurant, the first -- and still one of the best -- of Los Angeles’ Oaxacan restaurants.

She began working alongside her family in the restaurant business at a very young age. Bricia is a graduate of Mount Saint Mary’s College, majoring in business administration. She is currently a partner at Guelaguetza and today spearheads all operations.

Lopez has become a staunch proponent of Oaxacan culture and an integral figure in the gastronomic culture of Los Angeles. She is also one of the more popular personalities in the city’s burgeoning cocktail scene -- several Southern California bars have launched “Bricia” drinks in honor of her spirited prosletyzing on behalf of Oaxaca’s Mezcal liquor.

Lopez will be appearing on a panel on the authentic flavors of Mexico, during the Flavors of L.A. portion of the Taste on Sunday, Sept. 2. Tickets are $65 and available, with more information, at the Taste website.