We had the good fortune of connecting with Mollie Engelhart and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mollie, how do you think about risk?
I believe that risk is an inevitable part of life and without being willing to take the risk of failing you will never accomplish anything.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
We are unique in that we grow our own food on our regenerative farm in Fillmore, CA and we’re closing the food loop by sending the waste from our restaurants back to our farm to compost into new soil. It was not easy to get where I am, it took a lot of hard work and sacrifice. When you own your own business, there is no-one to call in sick to. In this current world, we put so much value on self care, but have forgotten hard work, dedication and follow through.

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?
I like to take a walk with my kids from my restaurant to the Echo Park Lake a block away. We take the swan paddle boats while I sip on coffee from Silverback. I would treat my friend to some great Mexican food and margaritas at Gracias Madre in West Hollywood or to eat an affirmation at Cafe Gratitude.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have entrepreneurial parents who helped guide me in life. They have always encouraged me to play a big game, take risks, explore the possibilities and know when to say yes. I would also like to give a shoutout to Woody Harrelson and Laura Louie for being the first investors to step up and believe in my concept in the beginning and Jeff Lamont who lent me the money to buy out my first business partners. My business would not have the success it does without my employees from hourly to upper management that have worked passionately towards my vision through the years.

Website: www.sageveganbistro.com, www.sowaheart.com

Instagram: @thekindsage, @sowaheart, @chefmollie

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoDeP7g9vEPLB4nMW7TAT0Q

Image Credits
Talia Manrique, Nicholas Skinner

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.