Owner, Alta Baja Market
Q: Where were you raised?
A: I was raised in Orange County, California. My father is from Boston, Massachusetts and my mother is from Nogales, Sonora, Mexico.
Q: What is something most people don’t know about you?
A: I studied Biology, Philosophy, and English Literature.
Q: What inspired you to open your business?
A: I love the city of Santa Ana, and I love that Alta Baja is a place where everyone can feel at home. When I first opened in 2016, I did not have many products, so I began small. I sold a selection of crafts from my travels around California, Mexico, and the American Southwest. As a merchandiser, I knew that variety was key, and that is when I incorporated food into the picture. I began to bring along products like wine, spices, and teas. Today, we sell a wide range of goods from deli items to unique crafts and gifts.
Q: What is unique about your business?
A: We are a specialty grocery store, cafe, and educational space dedicated to celebrating the foods and crafts of California, Mexico, and the American Southwest, combining the vibrancy of a specialty food shop with the inviting environment of a casual neighborhood eating spot.
Q: What recommendation do you have for visitors?
A: My recommendation is to walk up and down the street. Every building has its own personality. Each street is totally different.
Alta Baja Market, 201-200 E. 4th St.
