Chef/Owner: Laurel Cafe
San Antonio
A native of Caracas, Venezuela, Chef Lopez boasts over 30 years of culinary experience. Throughout his career, he has held culinary and management positions at luxury hotels and resorts in Ljubljana, Slovenia; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; Kailua Kona, Hawaii; and several Michelin-starred establishments in France. Additionally, Chef Lopez is a graduate and MIT at the Hotel School of Beaune in France.
During his tenure at Botika and as the Executive Chef & Instructor of Culinary Arts at San Antonio’s renowned Culinary Institute of America, Chef Lopez has received countless awards and accolades both locally and nationally. Since 2017, he has served as an ambassador for the city of San Antonio, promoting the Alamo City culinary scene in London, Frankfurt, Mexico City, Toronto, Los Angeles, and New York, while being an integral part of the city's UNESCO City of Gastronomy program.
Recently, Chef Lopez was selected as a recipient of the prestigious James Beard Foundation’s “America Taste Twenty” program.
Currently, the Chef serves as the Executive Chef for the Emma Hospitality Group, where he develops new concepts and hires and trains talent for the company's upcoming openings.
Events Featuring This Chef
Signature Dinner
September 25, 2026
At the heart of Ven a Comer 2026, the Signature Dinner offers a vibrant tribute to the culinary traditions of the Mexican borderlands. Hosted at Stable Hall, the evening showcases a menu by Pati Jinich, realized by local chefs and inspired by the rich cultural exchanges that define the region.
As emcee, menu curator and storyteller, Pati brings each course to life—sharing the histories, memories, and meanings behind the flavors—creating a dynamic and memorable dining experience rooted in community and tradition.
