Mezcal Restaurant, located in downtown San Jose, is an iconic destination famed for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine, drawing praise from local diners and international audiences. Owned and operated by Adolfo Gomez and his family, Mezcal has garnered attention for its flavorful dishes, knowledgeably transcribed recipe archives, and most famously, its feature on the popular television show “Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern.”
Mezcal Restaurant has become a beloved dining destination in downtown San Jose, offering an unparalleled culinary experience for those looking to savor the authentic flavors of Oaxacan cuisine. Under the guidance of owner Adolfo Gomez and his family, the restaurant takes great pride in preserving the traditional recipes and ingredients that have been passed down for generations. Mezcal’s menu ranges from classic mole sauces to adventurous dishes such as grasshoppers, all of which have earned acclaim from both local diners and national audiences alike.
This recognition culminated in 2013 when Mezcal was featured on the popular Food Network show “Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern,” firmly establishing it as a destination worth visiting.
Adolfo Gomez’s entrepreneurial spirit and passion for his Oaxacan roots have resulted in the dream of Mezcal Restaurant becoming a reality. After working in the construction industry, Gomez saw an opportunity to bring the distinct flavors of his homeland to San Jose, which lacked variety in its Mexican food offerings. Embodying the family-oriented culture of Oaxaca, Gomez enlisted the help of his mother Doña Libo and brother Tavo to transcribe their family recipes and train the restaurant’s cooks. The dedication to preserving family traditions is reflected in every dish served at Mezcal, and was recently recognized with a feature on the Food Network show “Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern,” cementing it as a must-visit destination.
Mezcal is renowned for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine, celebrating a wide array of flavorful and unique dishes. From the famous mole negro and mole coloradito, two of the seven renowned Oaxacan chocolate sauces, to the enticing Oaxaca enchiladas filled with cheese and topped with black bean puree, onions, and queso fresco, every bite is sure to tantalize the taste buds. Not to be outdone, the restaurant takes great pride in its handmade tortillas, available in various sizes to serve as the foundation for many of their delicious creations.
Through its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and minimal spicing, Mezcal Restaurant allows the natural flavors of Oaxaca’s culinary artistry to shine.
Mezcal Restaurant’s success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Adolfo Gomez and his family. Since opening its doors, the restaurant has established itself as a go-to destination for unique Oaxacan cuisine in the San Jose area. Thanks to their unwavering commitment to preserving traditional family recipes, Mezcal Restaurant has earned prominent standing among both local diners and national audiences alike, ultimately culminating in a feature on the Food Network show “Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern.” This celebrated success further confirms why Mezcal Restaurant is alive and thriving today, continuing its mission of bringing authentic Mexican flavors and culture to the Bay Area.
