A CULINARY QUEST

Gaby Lozano Griffeth moved to Chicago from Guadalajara, Mexico, in 2008 to pursue a BA in Hospitality at Kendall College, fueled by her love of the culinary arts. “I had the privilege of working alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry,” says Griffeth, who now lives in Lake Forest with her husband, daughter, and two black labs. “But when my daughter, Charlotte, was born, I embraced the rewarding journey of motherhood and decided to step back from the professional scene.” That, however, did not stop her from continuing her passion for cooking and hospitality at home. During the pandemic, while navigating life at home with a toddler, she felt a deep need for a creative outlet, which led her to launch Poquio Mexico—a blog dedicated to sharing the rich beauty and culture of Mexico through the eyes of a local. “This project allowed me to reconnect with my roots and dive deeper into my true passion,” says Griffeth, adding that she has also become more engaged with the Lake Forest community. Among her pet projects locally is helping to promote her sister’s project, Puka Llama—a Peruvian company that creates handcrafted stuffed llamas and animals. She’s also recently ventured into the finance world, embracing a new professional challenge. This busy mom and foodie took time from her busy schedule to share a few of her favorite North Shore things.

Favorite city you’ve visited so far? Merida in the Yucatan Peninsula. Favorite airport/travel hack? Compressions socks! Just do it. Most underrated ingredient when cooking? A good salt; they are not all made the same. Favorite Lake Forest restaurant? I am going to be in trouble with my family if I don’t say Chiefs. The Joe’s burger never fails. Best place to get away for the weekend? The St. Regis Chicago! Tre Dita is just unbelievable. Next stamps on your passport? Mexico, Ireland and Japan. Your go-to beverage? Matcha for life. Favorite food from your heritage? Mole, mole and mole. What is next on your bucket list? A culinary trip to Oaxaca. TV show you can’t stop bringing? Suits! Favorite spring escape? Key Biscayne Dish your whole family loves? Gaby’s famous lemon pepper salmon Oscar film you are rooting for this month? The Brutalist. Lake Forest’s best-kept secret is? The library, especially the kids section downstairs.