Chefs Laura and Sayat Ozyilmaz Launch Maria Isabel in 2026

Chefs Laura and Sayat Ozyilmaz, known for their acclaimed restaurant Dalida, are set to unveil their new dining venture, Maria Isabel, on March 3, 2026. Located in the former Ella’s American Kitchen space in Presidio Heights, this 50-seat restaurant aims to celebrate the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, reflecting Laura’s heritage and the vibrant flavors of her childhood.

Maria Isabel promises to create a unique dining experience that connects the Pacific coast of Mexico with California. Born in Guerrero, Laura grew up surrounded by tropical ingredients and coastal flavors. Her father’s roots in Sinaloa introduced her to traditional dishes like aguachile and chilorio. These early influences will shape a menu featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and purveyors.

A Culinary Journey Through Mexico

The restaurant’s aesthetic will complement the culinary experience, with plates from HACHA Cerámica in Jalisco and glassware from various Mexican artisans. The dining experience will be communal, with dishes designed for sharing, fostering a vibrant atmosphere.

The menu will include a variety of highlights, such as grilled oysters with encacahuatado sauce, a whimsical tostada featuring grilled octopus, and shareable antojitos like pan de cazuela. A robust masa program will produce fresh tortillas and tamales, showcasing the authenticity of Mexican cuisine.

Guests can look forward to hearty options, including a stuffed chicken milanesa and a savory broth with mushrooms and masa dumplings. Desserts will feature delights such as a coconut and mezcal Baked Acapulco and a roasted pineapple flan topped with a spicy salsa macha.

Innovative Bar and Wine Offerings

The beverage program at Maria Isabel, led by Jerry McGie, will focus on wines from California, Baja California, and Queretaro, alongside selections from South America. McGie aims to highlight the unique narratives of these underrepresented regions, featuring around 80 selections on the wine list.

The cocktail menu, crafted by Consulting Bar Director Evan Williams, will explore a diverse range of Mexican spirits beyond tequila and mezcal. Guests can expect innovative drinks like the Truchita, which combines papaya seed-infused blanco tequila with clarified grapefruit skin cordial. Other cocktails will evoke nostalgic flavors, celebrating the culinary heritage of both Mexico and California.

Maria Isabel’s interior design, envisioned by Jenne Wicht, will feature two distinct dining areas inspired by Laura’s sister, Maria, and her mother, Isabel. The space will utilize materials such as oak, steel, and leather, creating a warm and inviting environment.

A hand-painted mural by local artist Emily Parkinson will welcome patrons, while the overall design aims to create a stimulating yet intimate atmosphere. Thoughtful details such as lighting and acoustics have been considered to enhance the dining experience.

As anticipation builds for the opening of Maria Isabel, the Ozyilmaz siblings are poised to deliver a dining destination that not only showcases the culinary richness of Mexico but also tells a personal story of heritage and family.