Restaurante San Sebastian

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Since arriving in the U.S. in 2002, Sureya has nurtured a dream close to her heart: owning a pupuseria. Armed with little more than a passion for Salvadorian cuisine and a desire to share it with others, she began her journey by making pupusas for friends and family over a decade ago. It wasn't until 2020, however, that her dream started to take shape, thanks to her participation in the East Side Grown program, which provided the catalyst for the birth of Restaurante San Sebastian.

Today, Restaurante San Sebastian stands as a testament to Sureya's dedication and love for her craft. Her menu is a delightful tapestry of traditional dishes, including pupusas, tamales, and pan mexicano, each crafted with meticulous care and attention to detail.

Despite the challenges of juggling multiple jobs to make ends meet, Sureya's unwavering determination has been the driving force behind Restaurante San Sebastian success. With every dish she serves, she brings a piece of her culture to the table, inviting customers to experience the flavors of Salvadorian and Mexican cuisine in all their glory.

What truly sets Restaurante San Sebastian apart is Sureya's unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Each dish is prepared fresh daily, using only the finest ingredients and recipes passed down through generations. Sureya's dedication to inclusivity is evident in her menu, which offers vegetarian options and allergen-friendly Mexican bread to cater to diverse palates.

Despite the hurdles she faces as a budding entrepreneur, Sureya's resilience and determination remain unshakable. With every challenge she overcomes, she gets one step closer to realizing her lifelong dream of owning a thriving pupuseria. Join Sureya on her journey as she continues to craft culinary dreams at San Sebastian, one delicious dish at a time.

For ordering inquiries, please reach out to Sureya at restaurante.sansebastian23@gmail.com.

Exquisito Sabor Salvadoreño

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Silvia's journey from El Salvador to the United States was more than a physical transition—it was a leap of faith fueled by a deep-seated dream instilled in her by the unwavering support and encouragement of her mother and grandmother. Drawing from her familial roots and her experiences working in restaurants, Silvia embarked on her entrepreneurial venture during the challenging times of the pandemic. Despite facing daunting hardships, including the loss of her mother in 2020, Silvia discovered solace and purpose in the art of cooking, leading her to uncover her true passion for sharing the flavors of her homeland with others. It was through the East Side Grown program that Exquisito Sabor Salvadoreño came to fruition, providing Silvia with the guidance, resources, and scholarship she needed to turn her culinary aspirations into reality.

With her heart set on her signature dish, pupusas, Silvia found her niche in the food industry, drawing from authentic recipes passed down through generations. While grateful for the opportunity to showcase her food at the farmers' market, Silvia's vision extends far beyond; she dreams of opening her own restaurant, one that celebrates the rich tapestry of Salvadoran cuisine with a diverse menu. Through her journey, Silvia's message to her fellow Hispanics resonates—a message of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief that dreams can indeed be achieved with perseverance and support from programs like East Side Grown.

Silvia's story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative potential of pursuing one's passion. Despite encountering setbacks and challenges along the way, Silvia's unwavering determination and willingness to seize opportunities for growth have propelled her forward. As she continues on her entrepreneurial journey, Silvia remains open to learning, evolving, and making a positive impact in her community. Through Exquisito Sabor Salvadoreño, Silvia not only shares the flavors of her culture but also embodies the spirit of resilience and hope, inspiring others to pursue their dreams with courage and conviction.

She is at the Princeton Plaza Farmer Market every Wednesday and Sunday from 9am-1pm.

Dishes de Rosa

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Rosa's entrepreneurial journey is a testament to her unwavering spirit and determination. From the success of her cleaning business to her foray into the culinary world with Dishes de Rosa, her path has been guided by a relentless drive to pursue her passions. While her previous achievements are commendable, Rosa's true calling lies in the realm of food—a passion that has been nurtured over the years and now defines her culinary identity.

With a food management certification from Mission College and over a decade of hands-on experience in the food service industry, Rosa stands out for her dedication to creating mouthwatering, home-cooked meals. Her decision to fully embrace her culinary dreams was solidified in 2021 upon graduating from the East Side Grown program, marking the commencement of her culinary odyssey.

Specializing in authentic Mexican cuisine, particularly from the Michoacán region, Dishes de Rosa is a celebration of Rosa's heritage. Drawing from recipes passed down through generations, Rosa infuses each dish with freshness and quality, ensuring that every bite is a flavorful homage to her roots. From her renowned enchiladas and hearty birria to comforting pozole and Peruvian beans, every dish reflects Rosa's commitment to providing wholesome, affordable meals.

Beyond simply tantalizing taste buds, Rosa's dedication extends to fostering a sense of community and well-being. Her emphasis on exceptional customer service and the welfare of her employees underscores her mission to spread joy and nourishment throughout her community.

Despite encountering numerous obstacles—including time constraints, financial hurdles, and a lack of marketing expertise—Rosa's determination remains unyielding. Her vision of owning a catering kitchen and implementing initiatives to support the less fortunate exemplifies her compassionate nature and desire to effect positive change.

As Rosa continues to navigate the intricate landscape of entrepreneurship, she remains grateful for opportunities like the East Side Grown program, which empower individuals like her to dream big and strive for a brighter future. Join Rosa on her culinary journey with Dishes de Rosa—a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and purpose.

For catering inquiries, please email Rosa at hurtadorosa790@gmail.com

Cocinando con Amor

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In April 2022, Cocinando con Amor was more than just a business venture—it was the realization of a collective dream, ignited by the unwavering passion and determination of its founders: Marisela Sanchez, Mark Herbert, Macky Avila, Teresita Garcia, and Cynthia Colmenares. Their journey began amidst the vibrant streets of San Jose, fueled by the East Side Grown program, which served as the fertile soil for their culinary aspirations to take root and flourish.

Specializing in the art of traditional Mexican cuisine infused with innovation, Cocinando con Amor has mastered the delicate balance of honoring heritage while embracing the flavors of the world. From the sizzle of bistec ranchero to the refreshing zest of cauliflower ceviche, every dish is a symphony of flavors crafted with precision and love, sourcing only the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients.

Yet, Cocinando con Amor is more than just a catering service; it's a beacon of empowerment and community upliftment. With a vision to establish their own restaurant, the founders aspire to create a space that not only tantalizes taste buds but also nurtures dreams. Their goal goes beyond profit margins; it's about providing opportunities, especially for women in the culinary world, and becoming a cornerstone of inspiration in Silicon Valley.

Fuelled by an unyielding commitment to innovation and excellence, the team embraces challenges as stepping stones to greatness. They understand that success is not merely about the destination but the journey, filled with trials and triumphs. Through it all, Cocinando con Amor remains true in their belief that love is the secret ingredient that transforms every dish into an experience, leaving a mark on every customer's heart.

Despite the hurdles faced, juggling the complexities of business management while balancing personal and professional responsibilities, their resilience remains unwavering. With every satisfied customer and savory bite, Cocinando con Amor reaffirms the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and a sprinkle of spice. Their story is not just about food; it's about turning dreams into delicious reality, one plate at a time. Join them on their journey and taste the love infused in every dish; they're not just cooking, they're crafting dreams.

For catering inquiries, contact them at cocinandoconamor6.cca@gmail.com.