Bricia Lopez

Bricia Lopez is a Mexican-American restaurateur, chef, author, and cultural ambassador recognized as an authority on Oaxacan cuisine and culture in the United States. Raised in a family of Oaxacan mezcal craftsmen, Lopez learned traditional cooking alongside her mother and grandmother. She is the second-generation co-owner of Guelaguetza, a landmark Oaxacan restaurant in Los Angeles' Koreatown, founded by her father. Under Lopez's leadership, Guelaguetza has received the James Beard American Classics Award and has been described by the late Los Angeles Times food critic Jonathan Gold as the best Oaxacan restaurant in the United States.

Lopez's impact extends into the spirits industry, where her mezcal program at Guelaguetza contributed to the spirit's popularity in Los Angeles. The New Yorker referred to her as the Queen of Mezcal, and she was officially designated Mezcalera of the City of Los Angeles by Mayor Eric Garcetti. Lopez also played a role in launching Mama Rabbit, a mezcal and tequila bar at Park MGM in Las Vegas, which features one of the largest agave spirit selections in the country. She has advocated for immigrant rights, including speaking before world leaders such as former Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto.

As an author, Lopez co-wrote two cookbooks with food writer Javier Cabral. Her debut, "Oaxaca: Home Cooking from the Heart of Mexico," was the first cookbook on Oaxacan cuisine written by a native Oaxacan family. The book became a bestseller, received a James Beard Award nomination, and was recognized by Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, and Mother Jones. Her second book, "Asada: The Art of Mexican-Style Grilling," explores Mexican culinary culture and features more than 100 recipes focused on carne asada gatherings.

Lopez has established a presence in media and entrepreneurship. She co-hosts the "Super Mamas" podcast with her sister Paulina, which has evolved into a lifestyle media company with partnerships with brands such as Target, Delta, and AT&T. Lopez and her siblings launched two direct-to-consumer product lines, I Love Micheladas and Guelaguetza mole starters, available in retailers across California. In the nonprofit sector, Lopez co-founded RE:HER, an organization supporting women restaurateurs. She has appeared on television programs including "Top Chef" and "Alex vs. America," sharing her expertise in Oaxacan cuisine with national audiences. Lopez has been recognized by Hola magazine as a Top 100 Latina Powerhouse and has been featured at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, contributing to the ongoing evolution of American culinary culture.