Tricia Tomlinson

Tricia Tomlinson sees a perfect fit between anthropology and food.

“I am a foodie with a background in anthropology. It’s a good mesh,” said Tomlinson, whose Mexican eatery is known to run a special called the Don Ho, a 12-inch burrito filled with carnitas pork, pineapple salsa, rice, cheese and poblano creama. “I have lived in the area my whole live and I got started with a passion for cooking and a general interest in public service.”

Tomlinson said that her restaurant has a “pay forward” board which provides meals for people that may not be able to afford eating out.

“It is an equalizer for our community,” she said. “Everyone gets to eat out.”

On the diversity in LA, she said, “I am so very grateful for the intergenerational community, the arts, music, and a general sense of pride for our city.” She does see a need to break out from traditional development models for housing and she supports more integration of services for the immigrant population.

When she goes out to eat, Tomlinson doesn’t travel far preferring nearby, Mother India.

“They are our neighbors and we have been eating there for years. The owners are kind and hard- working and present an always fresh and healthy product.”

As for her thoughts for the future, Tomlinson envisioned, “Working at my restaurant part-time and traveling the world with my children. Maybe Greece, Africa, and Europe.”