Tamales, a cherished dish in Latin American cuisine, evoke nostalgia and comfort for many, as they have been prepared since 8,000 B.C. The intricate process of making tamales—soaking, kneading, mixing, filling, rolling, and steaming—is often relegated to special occasions due to the labor-intensive nature of the dish.
Yet, their rich history reflects a cultural significance that transcends mere sustenance, with ancient Mesoamerican civilizations offering tamales to deities in religious rituals. For Isabel Rosales, a native of Chicago, tamales symbolize her roots and memories of home, particularly as they were a staple in her family’s breakfast routine.
Upon relocating to San Diego nine years ago, Rosales anticipated a vibrant tamale scene in the border town but was disappointed. “Every time I would taste them, it didn’t remind me of home,” she recalls. This prompted her to try making them herself, although her first attempts were not successful.
Determined, she brought her tamales to her workplace to earn some extra income and seek feedback from colleagues. Her journey took a significant turn in 2021 when she kicked off her first tamale pop-up at Mujeres Brew House, laying the groundwork for her brand, Isa’s Tamales.
In the following year, she participated in a tamale contest hosted by radio station Magic 92.5, earning third place, which resulted in heightened interest in her creations among her coworkers. By 2023, she secured a weekly opportunity to provide tamales at Mujeres Brew House, which significantly boosted her confidence and client base.
Despite the growing demand for her tamales, Rosales wrestled with the decision to leave her corporate job. A single mother of three teenagers, the notion of forgoing a steady paycheck was daunting. However, a pivotal moment arrived when her daughter inquired about her perpetual dissatisfaction with work. “What am I teaching my kids?” Rosales pondered, which catalyzed her decision.
In January 2024, she embraced the leap of faith to start making tamales full-time.
In addition to her culinary endeavors, Isabel Rosales is a dedicated advocate for victims of domestic violence. She openly shares her own experiences to help break the cycle of abuse that claimed her mother’s life. “I wanted to be a voice for me and for her, because we never got justice for her, and I made it out,” she states, now serving as an advocate for California and volunteering with organizations like the Family Justice Center and One Safe Place in San Marcos.
Rosales dreams of merging her tamale business with her advocacy to create a brick-and-mortar establishment. “I want to do it for women that never had jobs before, that always live in the DV environment at home, and they’re finally left and they want to regain their lives back and start something,” she expresses. The envisioned establishment would not only forge a legacy for her children but also serve as a supportive environment for women seeking a fresh start.
Her tamales can be found most Tuesdays at Sunny Grove Brewing Company in Santee, Thursdays at Mujeres Brew House in Barrio Logan, and Fridays at the Marina District Farmers Market, with current details available on her Instagram page.
In culinary news, LuckyBolt is set to celebrate the grand opening of The Lounge at LuckyBolt on October 22. Originally established as a healthy lunch delivery service in San Francisco in 2011, it expanded to San Diego in 2014, emphasizing a connection between small farmers and local consumers.
Transitioning into a café, bakery, catering service, and meal prep provider, the new space aims to create a laid-back atmosphere, presenting a menu focused on nourishment, health, and community sourced from local farms.
Meanwhile, La Mesa has welcomed a new coffee shop, Come Back Coffee, with a menu inspired by Southern flavors. Located at 7424 University Avenue, it offers a unique blend of coffee and espresso options alongside intriguing drinks like a key lime pie-inspired matcha.
In addition, Love Letters Pizza, taking over the space formerly known as Somewhere Pizza next to Scrimshaw Coffee, is nearing its opening. Excitement grows for pizza lovers eager for new options in town.
Revolution Roasters is also debuting a mouthwatering fall menu, featuring beverages that capture the essence of the season with flavors like apple cinnamon syrup and refreshing rosemary syrup topping.
For those following the San Diego food scene, updates and breaking news can be reported via email for consideration.
Stay tuned for more developments in culinary offerings and ventures in San Diego’s vibrant food culture.
image source from：sandiegomagazine
