Meet Yoom Flores | Foodie influencer and Accountant

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

Hi Yoom, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
When I started as a food influencer, I was deeply immersed in the hustle culture I found myself often sacrificing personal time to meet deadlines, build my brand, and engaging with my audience.

Over time, I realized that constant work without breaks was affecting my creativity and energy. I also wanted to spend more time with family and friends.

Now, I prioritize setting boundaries, such as dedicating specific times to work. I’ve learned that a well-balanced routine makes me more productive and allows me to enjoy the journey rather than just chasing goals.

For me, balance isn’t about splitting time perfectly- it’s about aligning my priorities with what matters most. I focus on quality time for both work and life, knowing that they fuel each other.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me apart is my ability to create authentic, relatable content that connects with my audience on a personal level. I focus on showcasing the diverse and vibrant food culture in San Diego, catering to people who value experiences as much as flavors. I prioritize storytelling—bringing meals to life beyond just the plate.

I’m incredibly proud of building a community that trusts my recommendations and shares my passion for food exploration. It excites me to see my content inspire others to try new places, support local businesses, and embrace food as a way to connect with loved ones.

My professional journey has been anything but easy. I started with no experience in digital media, teaching myself photography, editing, and how to navigate social platforms. Early on, I faced challenges like staying consistent and standing out in a competitive space. But I kept pushing, focusing on my authenticity and engaging directly with my audience.

I overcame challenges by embracing adaptability and resilience. I stayed open to feedback, invested in my skills, and learned to manage my time effectively. Collaborating with others in the food scene also helped me grow and gain fresh perspectives.

One big lesson I’ve learned is that consistency and authenticity go hand-in-hand. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about showing up with genuine passion. I’ve also realized the importance of rest—it fuels creativity and prevents burnout.

My story is about celebrating food as more than sustenance—it’s a gateway to culture, connection, and joy. Through my brand, I want to inspire people to explore, savor, and share their own food journeys.

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?
Day 1: Welcome to San Diego

Morning:
• Breakfast at Morning Glory (Little Italy): Start the trip with this Instagram-worthy brunch spot. Try their souffle pancakes or breakfast carbonara.
• Stroll through Little Italy: Explore boutiques, art galleries, and the vibrant Piazza della Famiglia.

Afternoon:
• Balboa Park: Visit the iconic park with lush gardens, historic architecture, and museums like the San Diego Museum of Art or the Japanese Friendship Garden.
• Lunch at Panama 66: A casual spot with craft beer and seasonal dishes in the park.

Evening:
• Dinner at Born & Raised: A stunning steakhouse with rooftop views of Little Italy. End the night with their tableside cocktails.

Day 2: Coastal Vibes

Morning:
• Breakfast at The Cottage (La Jolla): A local favorite for classic Cali breakfast with a coastal vibe.

Afternoon:
• La Jolla Cove: Take a walk along the cliffs, watch sea lions, or rent kayaks for a guided tour of the caves.
• Lunch at George’s at the Cove: Enjoy ocean views and fresh seafood at their rooftop dining area.

Evening:
• Sunset at Windansea Beach: One of the most picturesque spots to watch the sun dip into the Pacific.
• Dinner at Le Coq (La Jolla): A charming French bistro offering rich, flavorful dishes in an elegant setting.

Day 3: Old Town & Downtown

Morning:
• Breakfast at Café Coyote (Old Town): Famous for their fresh, hand-made tortillas.
• Explore Old Town San Diego: Dive into California’s history and pick up local artisan goods.

Afternoon:
• Lunch at Puesto at The Headquarters: Known for its award-winning tacos and vibrant decor.
• Seaport Village: A charming waterfront area with unique shops and coastal views.

Evening:
• Gaslamp Quarter:
• Dinner at Lionfish: A modern seafood spot with incredible sushi and creative cocktails.
• Nightlife at Raised by Wolves: A hidden speakeasy experience with stunning interiors and craft cocktails.

Day 4: Outdoor Adventures

Morning:
• Breakfast at Parakeet Café (Encinitas): Healthy, Instagrammable options like matcha waffles and wellness lattes.

Afternoon:
• Hike Torrey Pines State Reserve: Breathtaking ocean views and a workout all in one.
• Lunch at Market Restaurant + Bar (Del Mar): A contemporary spot featuring locally-sourced ingredients.

Evening:
• Dinner at Viewpoint Brewing Co. (Del Mar): Great craft beer and scenic lagoon views.
• Relax at Del Mar Beach: Stroll the beach under the stars.

Day 5: North County Adventures

Morning:
• Breakfast at Pipe’s Café (Cardiff-by-the-Sea): A laid-back surfer spot with hearty breakfast burritos.

Afternoon:
• Visit Oceanside: Check out the Oceanside Pier, Mission Pacific Hotel’s rooftop bar, and the California Surf Museum.
• Lunch at Wrench & Rodent (Oceanside): Known for their creative sushi rolls.

Evening:
• Dinner at Campfire (Carlsbad): A cozy spot with wood-fired dishes and a rustic-chic vibe.

Day 6: Coronado Charm

Morning:
• Breakfast at Clayton’s Coffee Shop: A retro diner with classic breakfast staples.
• Coronado Beach: Relax on the sandy shores near the iconic Hotel del Coronado.

Afternoon:
• Lunch at Hotel del Coronado’s Sun Deck: Enjoy lunch with panoramic ocean views.
• Explore Coronado Village: Shop and wander around the charming town center.

Evening:
• Dinner at Stake Chophouse: A fine dining experience with rooftop views of Coronado.

Day 7: Farewell Tour

Morning:
• Breakfast at Great Maple (Hillcrest): Don’t miss their famous maple bacon donuts.
• Farmer’s Market (Hillcrest, if it’s Sunday): Explore local vendors and grab some snacks or souvenirs.

Afternoon:
• Lunch at Crack Shack (Little Italy): A fun spot for fried chicken sandwiches and shared plates.
• Explore Cabrillo National Monument: Panoramic views of San Diego Bay, historic lighthouses, and tide pools.

Evening:
• Dinner at Juniper & Ivy (Little Italy): End the trip with inventive New American dishes in a trendy atmosphere.

Extra Fun Additions:
• Breweries: San Diego is a craft beer haven! Check out Modern Times, Stone Brewing, or Ballast Point.
• Concerts or Sports: Catch a Padres game at Petco Park or check out live music at the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Josh Kopelman of Dining Out SD magazine helped me get collaborations when I first started getting into to the social media aspect of it all.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/princesspurpley/profilecard/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==