About Me
Mercedes has been cooking since she could walk. Her earliest memory of cooking was providing full course meals to her cabbage patch dolls during play time. Mercedes' love and passion for cooking began in her grandmother's kitchen. She fell in love with her family’s southern recipes and the art of using your hands to make delicious meals. Over time, she had created one pot meals, homemade herbal teas, and catered several events. Mercedes has fused her love for cooking and serving others to create Eight16 Culinary Therapy.
Mercedes received her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from San Diego State University in 2010 and her Masters of Social Work Degree with an emphasis in Community Organizing, Planning, and Administration from the University of Southern California in 2012. Mercedes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has experience working with emotionally disturbed children, former & current foster youth, and victims and survivors of Human trafficking.
Currently, Mercedes resides in San Diego, CA with her favorite Labradoodle, Sir Bo. She finds the most joy with spending time with her grandmother, family, friends, serving others, and creating art in the kitchen.