Today we’d like to introduce you to Luis Pérez.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Luis. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
We opened Lola Gaspar in 2008. There were in only a handful of restaurants/bars in the downtown Santa Ana area. After an initial stay in Europe, which led to many more stays, I found myself alongside some of my closest compadres in a warm booth inside a dingy bar in Brooklyn talking about opening our own establishment. Those conversations and the things we experienced became the foundation for Lola Gaspar which will be celebrating its 13th year this December.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Of course, with any small business or any business it’s rarely a smooth road. We opened during the recession of 2008 but were able overcome that climate. It’s no secret that there is a homeless issue in DTSA which has proved to be a huge struggle for us and our neighboring businesses. Currently, the pandemic has challenged us as well.
Please tell us about Lola Gaspar.
Lola Gaspar is a neighborhood tavern, inspired by travel, friends, art, culture, and experience. From the mercados in Mexico City to the infamous El Clásico in Spain we draw inspiration and influence from anything and everything that brings us joy. Food is universal language and by pulling ideas from different corners of the globe, we are able to keep our menu fresh and adventurous while showcasing a smorgasbord of options without the need for a passport. On any particular day, we could be grilling skirt steak on our patio during a futbol match or you might stop in late-night for a nip of mezcal while cumbia beats occupy the vast gothic interior of our bar top. Our goal is to add to the already rich history of local eateries in Orange County.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
The smell of fresh flour tortillas being made by abuelitas and mom.
Contact Info:
- Address: 211 W 2nd Street Santa Ana CA 92701
- Website: lolagaspar.com
- Phone: (714) 972-1172
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: lola_gaspar
- Facebook: @lolagaspardtsa
Image Credit:
Photos Courtesy Of Lola Gaspar
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