Today we’d like to introduce you to Elise Polentes.
Hi Elise, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I currently live in Normal Heights, San Diego. I am originally from the Philadelphia area. I grew up in Bethlehem, PA, but spent years living in Philly. That is where I met my partner, and in early 2020, we decided to leave Philadelphia on a road trip across the country.
COVID derailed most of our plans, but we ended up spending six months in a magical little mountain town, Salida, Colorado, and then settled in San Diego. I run a food business focused on local farmers’ markets, dinner parties, and small-scale catering. I buy all of the produce that I use from local producers and let the seasonal ingredients shape the food that I make.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Navigating a cross-country move while also setting up a small business, all during COVID, has been incredibly challenging. Adapting to constant change and being far away from my family while doing so has been a huge obstacle. My life looks entirely different today than it did before I left my home in Philadelphia. It is exciting and new, and living in San Diego, running my own business is a dream, but it has not been without trials & tribulations.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Sundial Pantry sells freshly prepared salads, snacks, and baked goods at local farmer’s markets. Dinner parties and small-scale catering is also available. All of Sundial’s food focuses on high-quality ingredients sourced as locally as possible. A large part of this is the beautiful produce of Southern California. All of the products we use is sourced directly from farmers at the local markets. You can find Sundial Pantry every Saturday at the Little Italy Mercato (8-2) and every other week at the Hillcrest Sunday Market (9-2) and the Pacific Beach Tuesday Market (3-7). Check our Instagram for more schedule updates (@sundialpantry) and please get in touch for any inquiries about parties, catering, or pre-orders!
Contact Info:
- Email: sundialpantry@gmail.com
- Website: sundialpantry.com
- Instagram: @sundialpantry
