THE SANTA ROSA ORIGINAL CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET

This October, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on Ely’s Kitchen as our Vendor of the Month at the Santa Rosa Original Certified Farmers Market. Ely’s Kitchen has become a beloved vendor, known for its authentic Mexican flavors and warm hospitality. From her handmade tortillas to her rich, comforting dishes, Ely brings the heart of Mexico to the market every Saturday.

Ely’s journey began when she shared her home-cooked meals with other vendors before ever considering opening a business. “People told me that my food was so good and that I should start a business,” she recalls. (“People told me my food was so good, I should start a business.”) With encouragement from her community and guidance through the permitting process, Ely’s Kitchen was born.

One of the highlights at her booth this month is her pozole (posole), a traditional Mexican stew made with hominy, pork, and aromatic spices. “I make it with simple ingredients like cilantro, garlic, guajillo chili, and a few other spices,” she explains. (“I make it with simple ingredients like cilantro, garlic, guajillo chili, and a few other spices.”) What sets her pozole apart is the balance she strikes by using more meat and less fat, creating a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for the cooler weather. Customers love her pozole, and it’s a must-try this October.

But it’s not just her pozole that keeps people coming back—Ely’s handmade tortillas are a market favorite, too. “I make my tortillas from scratch, with fresh dough, and it’s one of the things that people like the most,” she says proudly. (“I make my tortillas from scratch with fresh masa, and it’s one of the things people love most.”) Her careful, traditional process results in tortillas that are soft, fresh, and bursting with authentic flavor.

Ely is incredibly proud of the food she brings to the market, and she’s equally grateful for the supportive community she’s found here. “I love how satisfied and happy customers feel after eating my food,” she says. (“I love how customers feel satisfied and happy after eating my food.”) Although some have encouraged her to open a restaurant, Ely is focused on her work at the market for now, but she’s always open to the possibility in the future.

Family is at the heart of Ely’s Kitchen, with her entire family working together to prepare and serve food at the booth each week. “We do everything with a lot of love for everyone,” she adds. (“We make everything with a lot of love for everyone.”) That love is apparent in every dish, and it’s what makes her food truly special.

Be sure to stop by Ely’s Kitchen at the Saturday Santa Rosa Original Certified Farmers Market this October to savor the authentic taste of Mexican cuisine.

…Whether you’re enjoying her hearty pozole or her fresh, handmade tortillas, you’ll feel the love and tradition behind every bite.