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Several small Hispanic food businesses got a boost with the launch of a new farmer’s market in suburban Denver on Saturday, May 25. The Glendale Farmer’s Market was launched by the Hispanic Restaurant Association (HRA) in partnership with the City of Glendale and the Glendale Chamber of Commerce.
One aim of the market is to connect Hispanic food entrepreneurs with buyers in a vibrant market setting.
“The HRA started the market to help complete the entrepreneurial journey by bringing the customer to the business in a central location,” explains John Jaramillo, president of the association. “I found that a weakness in the traditional startup culture was not helping sell products, so we thought this was a great opportunity to help solve the problem.”
Among the food entrepreneurs who are benefiting from the market are Chef Pablo Aya, Chef Oscar Aquirre and baker/caterer Rudolf Elsener.
"When John approached us, it was perfect timing," says Chef Aquirre, is selling his own brand of chorizo and salsa. "We wanted an event to relaunch our brand of food products. With my mom's blessing we reintroduced Rosa Linda's Mexican Cafe (cuisine) to the Denver Market. My mom's restaurant was a staple in Denver for over 30 years, and participating in the HRA Farmers Market was our way of continuing to support our community and showcase our mom's cuisine without the restrictions of the restaurant. And considering that it was the first time setting this event up, we had a great turnout. With more exposure from the media, this event can grow into one of the best in the state."
Chef Aya, who previously was a producer of Master Chef Mexico and now runs a catering company, also lauds the success of the market so far: "Last week at the Glendale Farmers Market was a great success, allowing us to showcase our offerings and learn how to make this weekend even better. This market is the perfect platform to celebrate our heritage and contribute to the vibrant local food scene. Participating in the Market is invaluable for our brand, allowing us to connect with the community, showcase our culture, and present our authentic cuisine."
"Showcasing a few of our traditional breads and bakes is a great opportunity," adds Elsener.
The market, which will operate every Saturday through Labor Day weekend, is located in the parking lot of Infinity Park in Glendale, Colorado.
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