Owner, Sarinana's Tamale Factory
Q: Where were you born?
A: My name is Teresa Rodriguez Nieves, and I was born in Mexicali, Baja California. I immigrated to the United States in the summer of 1968, coming to visit my Tía Petra Flores and her family in the Logan neighborhood of Santa Ana. That trip became the beginning of my life here, in a city that would become home.
Q: What is something most people don’t know about you?
A: People see me at the counter or in the kitchen, but many don’t realize I’ve been behind every part of this business for over 40 years. I’ve raised a family here. I’ve seen generations of customers grow up. I remember every face, every story, and every family that walks through our doors.
I also helped shape our menu over time, adding tamales de pollo, elote, rajas, and our breakfast offerings. During Lent, I bring in seasonal dishes like capirotada de leche, tacos de pescado y papa, and tortas de camarón. It’s always been about sharing meals from my heart with our community.
Q: What inspired you to open your business?
A: I started working with my in-laws when I was just 18 years old. My mother-in-law, Josefina Salcido (daughter of the founders of Sarinana), taught me everything I know about running a kitchen and a business. When she began to retire in the mid-80s, I stepped in and purchased the business in 1985.
At that time, I was raising two boys and going through a divorce, and the restaurant helped keep my family afloat. This place became more than just a business; it became my purpose, my strength, and my way of preserving our family's traditions.
Q: What is unique about your business?
A: Sariñana’s Tamale Factory is the oldest Mexican restaurant in Orange County. Our story began with an immigrant family from the state of Durango, who planted roots in Santa Ana and built something that would stand the test of time.
What makes us different is that we don’t just serve food, we serve our story, our culture, and our memories. Every dish, from our tamales to our chile rellenos, carries decades of love, struggle, and tradition. For over 80 years, we've been a gathering place for families, friends, and the community. This isn’t just a business, it’s a living, breathing piece of Santa Ana’s history.
Q: What recommendation do you have for visitors?
A: If you're coming to Santa Ana, I recommend you come and try Sarinanas. Visit 4th Street, there is a lot of craftsmanship (i.e., Ana's Everything Store) and murals. You can also visit the Bowers Museum and spend your day there with your family.
