Team Spotlight: Meet Mercedes Dahl, Digital Media & Marketing Manager at Chula’s

Behind every great restaurant is a story, and behind that story is a thoughtful strategy that brings it to life. At Chula’s, that responsibility belongs to Mercedes Dahl, our Digital Media & Marketing Manager.

Mercedes plays a central role in shaping how Chula’s connects with the community, communicates its vision, and builds meaningful relationships long before the first plate hits the table.

A Career Rooted in the Restaurant Industry

Mercedes brings with her extensive experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry, with a background that spans operations, marketing, guest engagement, and brand storytelling across restaurants throughout the United States.

Her career has been built inside restaurants, not just behind a screen. That firsthand experience gives her a deep understanding of how hospitality, operations, and marketing intersect, allowing her to create strategies that are both creative and practical. From understanding the rhythm of a dining room to anticipating what guests value most, Mercedes approaches marketing through the lens of the full guest experience.

Building a Brand With Intention

At Chula’s, Mercedes oversees digital media, marketing strategy, and brand presence across all platforms. From website content and email communication to social media storytelling and community engagement, her focus is on creating a brand that feels authentic, welcoming, and deeply connected to the people it serves.

Mercedes works closely with Manny Perez, founder of Chula’s and her father, bringing together a shared vision rooted in family, culture, and hospitality. Their collaboration blends decades of restaurant ownership experience with modern marketing strategy, ensuring that Chula’s story is told with both authenticity and intention.

A Community-First Approach

More than marketing, Mercedes sees her role as building relationships. With a strong emphasis on local partnerships, transparency, and storytelling, she has helped position Chula’s as a restaurant that belongs to the community, even before opening day.

By sharing behind-the-scenes progress, spotlighting collaborators, and inviting the community into the journey, Mercedes has helped create excitement and trust around Chula’s long before guests walk through the doors.

Passion Meets Strategy

What sets Mercedes apart is her ability to balance creativity with strategy. She understands that successful restaurant marketing isn’t about trends, it’s about clarity, consistency, and connection. Her work ensures that Chula’s brand experience begins online and continues seamlessly the moment guests arrive in person.

With a lifelong connection to the restaurant industry and a deep respect for the work behind the scenes, Mercedes is proud to be part of the Chula’s team and excited to help bring her family’s vision to life.

We’re grateful to have her leading Chula’s digital presence as we prepare to openand we can’t wait for guests to experience everything this incredible team has built together.