Meet Thomas Perez | Restaurateur & Sommelier
We had the good fortune of connecting with Thomas Perez and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Thomas, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind the success of our brand is our commitment to delivering a consistently authentic and high-quality experience in every detail—from the food and wine to the service and visual identity. We’ve built trust by staying true to our core values, ensuring that everything we do reflects who we are.
Consistency across every touchpoint—logo, colors, imagery, and messaging—helps our guests immediately recognize and connect with our brand. At the same time, authenticity is what keeps them coming back; people can sense when something is real, and that genuine spirit resonates.
Exceptional customer service is also at the heart of what we do. Our team’s deep product knowledge and focus on relationship-building make guests feel seen and valued, creating lasting connections.
Above all, we never compromise on quality. Whether it’s a glass of wine, a plate of food, or the way we welcome someone through the door, excellence is the standard. That dedication is what sets us apart—and it’s what keeps the brand thriving.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business was born from a deep love of wine, hospitality, and authentic connection. I started as a sommelier and winemaker, but during the pandemic, I returned to my roots in the kitchen—what began as a few home-cooked meals for friends quickly became a full-scale operation out of my backyard. We were doing hundreds of orders a day: empanadas, chimichurri, and curated wine pairings. It was raw, real, and personal. That’s the energy that built Mesón Sommelier.
What sets us apart is that we’re not chasing trends—we’re curating an experience. Our wine list is composed of rare, small-production wines sourced directly from family-run vineyards around the world. Many of these wines never make it to the U.S. unless we bring them. Our food follows the same philosophy: honest, ingredient-driven, and rooted in tradition, with a few thoughtful twists. Every pairing tells a story.
Getting here wasn’t easy. I left El Salvador during the civil war when I was 13. I had to rebuild my life from scratch, and that journey shaped everything about how I approach business—with grit, gratitude, and a never-give-up mindset. The early days of the restaurant were filled with challenges—staffing, sourcing, pivoting during uncertainty—but every obstacle became an opportunity to get better, leaner, and more intentional.
What I’m most proud of is that we’ve built something deeply personal, and it resonates. Guests come in and feel something—warmth, curiosity, excitement. We’re not just serving food and wine; we’re building relationships. Many of our regulars started as strangers ordering from a Facebook post and are now lifelong friends.
If there’s one thing I want the world to know, it’s this: our brand is built on heart. This isn’t about hype—it’s about real people, real stories, and creating a place where every detail matters. From the wine to the lighting to the way we greet you at the door—it’s all intentional. Hospitality isn’t our job—it’s our craft.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When my friends visit me, one of the first places I love to take them is **Old Town Spring**. Nestled just north of Houston, this charming historic district is unlike anywhere else in the area. With its tree-lined streets, restored 19th-century buildings, and small-town Texas charm, Old Town Spring offers a unique experience that feels both nostalgic and vibrant.
We’ll start by strolling through the walkable town center, where there’s always something interesting to discover. The area is filled with over 100 locally owned shops, boutiques, galleries, and antique stores—each with its own personality. Whether it’s handmade crafts, vintage finds, gourmet foods, or quirky treasures, there’s something for everyone.
What makes Old Town Spring especially fun is its warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s easy to spend hours wandering through the shops, chatting with local shopkeepers, and taking in the character of the historic buildings. The town also hosts seasonal festivals and events throughout the year, which add to its lively community vibe.
After shopping, we’ll settle in at one of the local cafes, wine bars, or breweries—many of which offer outdoor seating and live music. Whether we’re enjoying a relaxed lunch or just sipping a glass of wine or craft beer, it’s the perfect way to unwind and soak in the laid-back spirit of the town.
Old Town Spring is a place that surprises and delights, especially for first-time visitors. It’s a reminder of a slower pace, a close-knit community, and the joy of exploring somewhere truly unique—and that’s why it’s always at the top of my list when showing off my corner of Texas.