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Meet Tita’s Empanadas of Chula Vista

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tita’s Empanadas.

So excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Tita’s Empanadas started during the pandemic as a way to bring joy and connection to our community. My grandma, who we all lovingly called Tita, had been making empanadas for as long as I could remember. Even as she began battling Alzheimer’s and started forgetting many things, making empanadas remained something she held onto. It was beautiful to witness, and I knew we had to share that love with others.

What began as a small family effort quickly grew. We started selling at local events, taking pre-orders, and soon realized how many people connected with Tita’s story and flavors. After she passed in 2022, we chose to continue the business in her honor—sharing not just her food, but her legacy, her Chilean roots, and the love she poured into every batch. Today, we cater events and keep the spirit of Tita alive through every empanada we serve.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Starting a small food business in the middle of a pandemic came with its own set of challenges—uncertainty, limited resources, and constantly shifting restrictions. But the hardest part was watching my grandma’s health decline while trying to build something around her legacy. There were moments where it felt overwhelming—juggling grief, logistics, and the pressure of keeping something so personal alive.

There was also a steep learning curve in managing food prep, events, and marketing, all while staying true to our roots. But every challenge reminded me why we started—Tita. Her story, her spirit, and the way she brought people together is what kept me going, even on the toughest days.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Tita’s Empanadas, it’s truly a family effort. My mom and aunt handle all the cooking, using the same love and recipes passed down from my grandma. My uncle and Tata take care of the frying, and my cousins contribute with branding, packaging, and flyer design. I focus on the marketing side—spreading the word, building our community presence, and helping shape the story behind the brand.

What sets us apart is the heart behind everything we do. It’s not just about selling food—it’s about honoring a legacy, representing our Chilean roots, and bringing people together through something as simple and comforting as an empanada. I’m most proud that this started in our kitchen during a difficult time and has grown into something that still feels like home to everyone who supports us.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
People can support Tita’s Empanadas by spreading the word, placing a pre-order, or inviting us to cater their next event. We love being a part of local markets, community gatherings, and collaborating with businesses that share our values of culture, family, and good food.

You can follow us on Instagram @titaschileanempanadas to stay updated, send us a message for pre-orders, or connect about future pop-ups and partnerships. Every bit of support helps us continue sharing Tita’s story and flavors with the world.

Pricing:

  • Beef 5$
  • Vegan 5$
  • Chicken 5$
  • Cheese 4$
  • Platter (2 of Each) 30$

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Pics by Xavier Barrett

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