Lucero Martinez Obregon Hustle and Heart Podcast HH002

About this Video

• Video Title: Lucero Martinez Obregon Hustle and Heart Podcast HH002
• Channel: Terra Alma Boutique Retail Real Estate Advisory
• Speakers: Edie Wicho, Lucero Martinez Obregon
• Duration: 00:31:08

Introduction

This podcast episode features an interview with Lucero Martinez Obregon, co-founder of Zoko Takaria and L Mexicano in Atlanta, Georgia. The conversation explores Lucero's journey from arriving in the US to build a successful restaurant empire, focusing on the challenges, joys, and inspirations behind her culinary ventures.

Key Takeaways

• Lucero's entrepreneurial journey: Lucero's passion for food, stemming from her upbringing in Mexico City, led her to open Zoko Takaria after initially studying graphic design. Her initial location was a repurposed garage bay in a former gas station.
• Building a restaurant empire: Lucero has successfully expanded her business to include multiple restaurants, most recently L Mexicano, which features regional Mexican cuisine.
• The importance of team and training: Lucero emphasizes the crucial role of a strong, well-trained team in maintaining consistent quality across multiple locations. Constant tasting and detailed training are key elements of her approach.
• Inspiration and legacy: Lucero's father served as a significant mentor, instilling in her the importance of embracing challenges and never getting too comfortable. She aims to leave a lasting impact on the Atlanta food scene, pioneering authentic Mexican cuisine.
• The future of food and beverage: Lucero anticipates continued growth in the industry, driven by increased culinary interest among younger generations, diverse culinary options, and the rise of food halls. Technology is increasingly important for logistics, but the human element of service remains irreplaceable.