Introducing Tacos and…Mezcal! SBP's very own F. Ron Smith and David Berg were recently invited for sips, savories, and stories with Luis Humberto Lopez, third generation mezcalero and founder of the award-winning Soluro 1610 Mezcal. The trio met at Hermanito — Sawtelle’s bar-forward, Mexican-Japanese fusion restaurant, where Luis shared how his Oaxacan roots shaped his craft, while F. Ron and David dig into Chef Amal Flores’ delicious lobster ceviche and birria tacos, all paired perfectly with the rich flavors of artisanal mezcal. Press play to watch now!
From Oaxaca to LA: The Story Behind Soluro 1610
Luis grew up in San Dionisio Ocotepec in Oaxaca, learning the art of traditional mezcal production from his family. Even after moving to Los Angeles, he remained deeply connected to his roots, eventually building his own palenque (mezcal distillery) on his family’s land. His goal: to create meaningful jobs for his village and share his unique spirit with the world.
FUN FACT: The name Soluro 1610 is a tribute to both family and heritage. It combines the first two letters of Sofia, Luis, and Roberto — his parents’ names and his own — with the year his village was founded.
Today, Soluro 1610 is celebrated not only for its rich, complex flavor but also for the tradition it represents. The mezcal has earned gold medals at both the LA Spirits Awards (2024) and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2025). You can enjoy it at top restaurants across Los Angeles or bring a bottle home from Total Wine.
Hermanito: Where Mezcal Connects Cuisine & Community
Hermanito Sawtelle is a neighborhood hub, built around family, friends, and flavors that feel like home. From housemade tortillas to craft cocktails with a nod to Sawtelle’s Japanese influences, it’s the perfect place for Luis to share Soluro 1610 and connect with the Westside community he now calls home.
PRO TIP: Be sure to order the guacamole with house-made chips (we usually order a second one), the incredible salmon tacos, and a signature Mezcal Margarita. And the fusion continues: Hermanito’s brand-new Santa Monica location is now open on Broadway at Lincoln!
