El Jardín de Vida
Event venue · San Diego
621 Toyne St, San Diego, CA 92102
"Opened by Top Chef alum Claudette Zepeda-Wilkins as an explicitly matriarchal, women-forward spot, this San Diego restaurant aims to normalize menstruation and remove shame by thoughtfully stocking its restrooms with menstrual products as well as diapers and changing tables. Early on, people sometimes took entire stashes, so a small explanatory sign was added; the restaurant specifically stocks organic tampons from Cora because of the brand’s mission, and the owner currently covers the roughly $70 monthly cost out of pocket to ensure quality and accessibility." - Naomi Tomky
"The chef bought heavy, handmade plates from Oaxaca and Guadalajara that are designed to be dishwasher-safe and durable; mugs have had handles removed and plates are kept flat to avoid edges that chip in dishwashers, though the heaviness makes them cumbersome for servers. Chipped or maimed plates are reused for staff family meals as a running joke." - ByPriya Krishna
"A San Diego project from Top Chef alum Claudette Zepeda-Wilkins described as a matriarchal, modern Mexican restaurant centered on familial Mexican cooking traditions." - Hillary Dixler Canavan
