About Mago
The name Mago
Mago began with Laguna Beach local Clark Olson, whose love for gardening, cooking, and travel inspired the brand. After spending time traveling through South America and living in Argentina, Olson returned home inspired by the flavors, culture, and communal meals he experienced abroad. During his travels, he lived in a shared home called Los Elefantes, a creative space filled with artists, travelers, and a strong sense of community that left a lasting impact on him. The home became a second family, complete with a dog and two cats — one named Mago, meaning “wizard” or “magician” in Spanish. The name stayed with him and eventually became the foundation of the brand.
What began as homemade hot sauce made from peppers he grew himself quickly gained a loyal following among friends, family, local restaurants, and the Laguna Beach community. Rather than chasing extreme heat, Clark focused on creating sauces with balance, depth, and versatility — made to complement food, not overpower it.
Keeping the flame alive.
Today, the torch has been passed to another Laguna Beach family who believed in the brand from the very beginning. New owners Desiree and Stephen Morand, the family behind the beloved restaurant, Coyote Grill, have been longtime supporters and champions of Mago. They are continuing its original mission while carrying the brand into its next chapter. They remain committed to preserving the heart of the brand, maintaining its quality and commitment to community while helping it grow for a new generation of hot sauce lovers.