Meet Diva Name

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

Hi Diva, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I decided to become a business owner and dive into the entrepreneurial world, I approached the process in a very methodical and visual way. Being a visual person, I dedicated an entire wall in my home to create a conceptual map. This served as a space to organize my thoughts and ideas systematically. Over the course of about eight months, I spent hours each day refining this plan, both in the mornings and at night. I would focus on one idea at a time, working on it until I felt satisfied before moving on to the next.

My action plan covered key areas, including:

Menu development
Atmosphere and ambiance
Interior and exterior design
Permits and legal requirements
Payment systems
Staff profiles and training
Weekly specials
Operational challenges
Scheduling
This journey began 10 years ago when I had little knowledge of marketing, especially digital marketing, so it wasn’t a focus in the early stages. However, over the years, I’ve prioritized building a robust marketing strategy. With my second location about to open, digital marketing has become a key element of my business plan.

What should our readers know about your business?
I like to think of myself as a woman who learns from the different mirrors I’ve encountered throughout various eras of my life. Creativity is at the heart of everything I do—I thrive on reimagining the ordinary and turning it into something memorable. My business allows me to express this creativity through festivals, events, cooking classes, unique cocktails, and dishes. What sets me apart is my culture and my passion for helping others succeed. As a proud Colombian, my Latin roots bring warmth and a deep understanding that success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about how you make people feel.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been anything but easy. I’ve consistently stepped out of my comfort zone because staying comfortable doesn’t accelerate growth. I’ve embraced challenging situations, sought advice from industry veterans who remain relevant, and prioritized networking, even when it felt difficult. Staying authentic to my beliefs has been a guiding principle, and I’ve learned the value of listening to my team. They are the face of daily operations, and their insights are invaluable.

One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is how to manage my ego, humble myself when mistakes are made, and keep moving forward. Challenges have shaped my journey, whether it was learning a new language, navigating unfamiliar environments, educating myself on complex topics, or making difficult decisions like letting go of friends or family when things didn’t work out professionally. I’ve faced these challenges one at a time, understanding that there are good days and bad days. I celebrate my small wins and allow myself to grieve my losses, believing it’s important to normalize not having everything figured out while continuing to show up every day.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that it reflects my core values: having fun in the process, supporting others, and prioritizing quality in everything we do. Whether it’s savoring great food, enjoying a few margaritas, or celebrating life’s milestones, we aim to create an environment where joy and connection are at the center. Our journey is about consistently growing into the big shoes we set for ourselves—one step at a time. Our reputation is built on solid ground, and we’re grateful every day for the support we receive. Above all, we are dedicated to making our guests feel that celebration and happiness are always worth prioritizing.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Fort Lauderdale has so much to offer, and here’s my idea of the perfect week-long itinerary to show someone the best time:

Day 1: Taco Tuesday at La Mexicana Taco Bar
We’d kick things off at my restaurant, La Mexicana Taco Bar, for Taco Tuesday. We’d enjoy the best tacos in town, our signature birria, and some refreshing margaritas while listening to live music. It’s a great way to ease into the week with good food, drinks, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Day 2: A Day on the Water and Wine Night
I’m an outdoor enthusiast, so we’d rent a boat and spend the day exploring Fort Lauderdale’s waterways, snorkeling, and enjoying the local wildlife. For a lunch stop, we’d dock at Shooter’s Waterfront for great food and light drinks. After a day in the sun, we’d wind down at Rebel Wine Bar with a cheese board and some great wine—a perfect setting for catching up and having meaningful conversations.

Day 3: Farmer’s Market Fun
We’d start the day at the Yellow Green Farmers Market, one of my favorite spots. It’s the perfect mix of a chill environment, unique vendors, and delicious food options. We’d shop for fresh produce and maybe pick up some artisanal goods. Later, we’d cook a meal together at home using our market finds, savoring the flavors and supporting local businesses.

Day 4: Brunch and Beach Day
A visit to Fort Lauderdale wouldn’t be complete without time at the beach! We’d start the morning with brunch at Lona Cocina Tequileria, which offers incredible Mexican-inspired dishes and ocean views. Then we’d relax at Las Olas Beach, renting chairs or trying a beachfront yoga class. It’s the perfect combination of indulgence and relaxation.

Day 5: Exploring Las Olas Boulevard
To wrap up the trip, we’d spend the day exploring Las Olas Boulevard. We’d visit art galleries, stop by charming ice cream shops, and enjoy some shopping. In the evening, we’d go bar-hopping along the strip, discovering a variety of vibes, from laid-back pubs to lively cocktail spots. It’s a guaranteed way to end the week with energy and fun.

Fort Lauderdale’s unique mix of outdoor adventures, vibrant culinary scene, and cultural hotspots make it an amazing place to create lasting memories with friends.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I firmly believe in the saying, “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” My success is the result of the incredible support system I’ve had along the way.

First, I want to acknowledge my mother. As a single mother, she set an inspiring example by turning disadvantages into opportunities. She prioritized my education and set the bar high through her own entrepreneurial spirit and tireless work ethic. She taught me that there are no limits and, most importantly, instilled in me the confidence to believe in myself and my ideas.

I’m also grateful to have surrounded myself with strong, inspiring women like Dafna Londoño, our executive chef. Her culinary talent is unmatched, but what truly sets her apart is her incredible work ethic and kind heart.

Because I value the balance of both feminine and masculine energy, I also want to recognize John Whelden, a dear friend who has taught me the importance of understanding people and continuously improving my skills in sales.

Lastly, I draw a lot of inspiration from thought leaders, and one person who has profoundly impacted my journey is Eric Cacciatore, the voice behind the Restaurant Unstoppable podcast. During the pandemic, his advice—and the opportunity to connect with him personally—accelerated my growth as a business owner and restaurateur. He reminded me of the importance of feeding my motivation and staying connected to my “why.” Without a purpose, what do we truly have?

Website: https://lamexicana.online/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lamexicanatacobar/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/diva-name-lamexicanatacobar Vanity URL name

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lamexicanatacobar

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/la-mexicana-taco-bar-wilton-manors-2

Image Credits
Julian Osorio