Meet Estefani Gonzalez of Atlanta

Today we’d like to introduce you to Estefani Gonzalez.

Hi Estefani, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Taza de Sol has always been a dream and milestone to achieve.
Since coming to the US back in 2002, I dreamt of bringing a little piece of my country to my new home in Atlanta, Georgia.
Uruguay is a small country in South America, but the people have the biggest hearts and are also welcoming to those who come to visit.
When I thought about opening something that showcases the love of my country, the culture, and amazing food, I always wanted to start as a pop-up to one day have a place to welcome all the different neighbors in Atlanta.
The name “Taza de Sol,” which translates to “Cup of Sunshine,” came about from us trying to incorporate the sun that is on the flag with the sensation of what our food would make people feel.
Our menu comes with a variety of different foods, from salty to savory, which are curated from recipes passed down from generation to generation.
Our food is made with love that is poured from the cook herself, Patricia Barrios, being native-born and raised in Uruguay and having a passion for cooking the food that brings people from different parts of the city/world together.
With all of this, Taza de Sol came to be in January of 2026 every Friday night at Green Bean ATL in the heart of Grant Park. You will find a smiling and welcoming face every time you enter this family-run business and be immersed in the culture of Uruguay all the way from the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes..

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Since Taza de Sol was recently introduced to the public, there have not been any significant struggles.
The only thing that stands out is that we are the only Uruguayan pop-up in a city surrounded by many different cultures, all trying to become known for their cuisine.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Being an immigrant from Uruguay and living in America has given me a different perspective on life and helping those around me. I came here around the age of six and basically grew up immersed in a multicultural environment. As long as I can remember, translating and switching back and forth between two languages has always been a part of my upbringing.
From a young age, I knew I always wanted to help my Hispanic/Latino community in any way possible, knowing how much each of us had to leave behind in search of a better future. Monday through Thursday, I work at Kamaluddin Law Firm, an immigration law firm in Smyrna, Georgia, where helping and supporting the immigrant community is at the heart of everything we do.
My Fridays are dedicated to a dream that became a reality and continues to grow, which is Taza de Sol Pop Up and sharing the beautiful, transcending culture of my beloved Uruguay.
No dream is too big or too small, and with God leading the way, anything is possible.

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was always very outgoing, curious, and people-oriented. I’ve been told that I light up a room when I walk in, and I have always loved making people feel welcomed, included, and comfortable. Being from Uruguay made me stand out growing up, as not many people I met were from there, and I naturally became someone who enjoyed sharing my culture and learning about others.
As long as I can remember, I’ve always had a strong sense of community and a desire to help people in any way I could. I would describe myself as altruistic, and I have always been an advocate for creating fun and safe spaces where everyone feels like they belong, whether that was in my home growing up or now through Taza de Sol.
I’ve always loved learning and sharing knowledge with others. Reading has been one of my favorite hobbies, and I enjoy learning about different cultures, people, and experiences. Even now, I continue to share what I learn through conversations and social media.
Outside of work and Taza de Sol, I love spending time with my Goldendoodle, Tango, going on morning walks along the BeltLine, and exploring Atlanta’s coffee scene by checking coffee shops off my list around the city. I’ve always been someone who enjoys connecting with people, helping anyone who needs it, and finding joy in the little moments that bring community together.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tazadesol.us
• Instagram: tazadesol.us