We had the good fortune of connecting with Daniela Guevara and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daniela, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I decided to start a business I knew it was to enjoy more freedom in my life – in all aspects, work and personal. I come from working in kitchens and I love to cook, I was very interested in doing my own recipes and vision.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a cook. I create food with flavors that come from Mexico and California and now that I live in the south, southern flavors. I started DMT with a partner and now I’m running it alone. There is a lot of challenges with trying to stay creative while also running the business administration side of it does slow the process down but those are all growing pains. My brand is an LA style taco pop up at the moment and officially I’m going to franchise when the time comes. I’d love to develop it into everyone’s favorite Mexican place! Not only in Atlanta but in the very major city!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Food and drinks all day! In Atlanta there is so many amazing places to visit. First things first, breakfast! At Homegrown off Memorial and Gibson. Then head to Sweetwater Creek which is 30 min west of Atlanta. Old civil war mill site on a hiking trail and a creek with beautiful views. Lunch would be a hard choice, either Ginya for sushi or Fish Camp for oysters. Late night club choice : Havana! And Yo Chef! What’s Cooking for the late night food since they open past 2am most days.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My first job in Atlanta was with Anne Quatrano at her restaurant Star Provisions, next door to her fine dining restaurant Bacchanalia. She also owns W.H. Stiles Fish Camp at Ponce City market. A.Q. Inspired me to start my own business and be more of a visionary in my own work because she goes above and beyond in hers. Her decor, the food, the years of being on the top fine dining list for Bacch. , all of it makes me determined to grow my brand as she did. Check out Star Provisions for the Korean Sandwich or Fish Camp for the freshest oysters!

Website: Www.dmtaqueria.com

Instagram: Dmtaqueria

Facebook: Dani’s Mexican Taqueria

Image Credits
Andrea Smith and Emma Higgins

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.