Sabrosa Fusion Is Bringing Generational Flavour and Cultural Connection to the ByWard Market

This story is part of the Immigrant Entrepreneur Canada Retail Incubator Program, presented by RBC and supported by Meridian.

The program provides hands-on retail experience and business training to help immigrant entrepreneurs launch and grow their ventures in the heart of Ottawa.

As you walk through the ByWard Market Vendor Village, you may be drawn to the rich aromas of Latin American cuisine — food made with care, tradition, and deep cultural roots. Behind Sabrosa Fusion is a story of family, resilience, and the powerful role food plays in connecting people across generations and borders.

For the founder of Sabrosa Fusion, the journey began in the kitchen alongside her mother and grandmother.

“Sabrosa Fusion was born from love — the love of three generations of women who cooked with intention and care,” she shares.

Her grandmother, María Itala, her mother, Mery, and herself shared a deep connection through cooking — one that carried meaning far beyond the food.

“When I came to Canada, I carried those recipes with me.”

Those recipes became the foundation of something new. Through Sabrosa Fusion, she set out to share the richness of Peruvian and Latin American cuisine with families in Ottawa — not as something unfamiliar, but as everyday food that nourishes and brings people together.

“As an immigrant, food became my bridge between the home I left and the home I was building here.”

That sense of connection remains at the heart of Sabrosa Fusion — a bridge built in a commercial kitchen in Ottawa, crafted for sharing.

Starting a business in a new country came with challenges. From navigating food regulations and licensing to learning financial systems and market applications, much had to be done independently.

“The challenges have been real: navigating a new country, a new food industry, and a new language — all at the same time.”

Language was an early barrier, requiring courage to ask questions and seek support.

“What helped me most was connecting with programs like the IEC Retail Incubator and mentors who believed in my vision.”

Through the program, she gained practical knowledge in retail strategy, pricing, and brand presentation, while also building confidence.

“It helped me see that my business was not just a personal project — it was a viable, professional food brand.”

That shift in mindset marked a turning point.

One meaningful milestone came when her story was featured by the Ottawa Mission during Canada’s 150th anniversary celebrations.

“As an immigrant, being seen, valued, and welcomed by this community planted a seed of hope that stayed with me for years.”

Today, launching Sabrosa Fusion feels like honouring that moment — as well as her family, heritage, and journey.

In just six months, the community response has been deeply encouraging.

“I am incredibly proud of how the community has embraced Sabrosa Fusion.”

Customers return not only for the food, but for the connection it brings.

“What touches me most is hearing customers tell me that our food takes them back to Peru or Latin America.”

For some, it’s nostalgia; for others, it’s discovery — but for all, it’s connection.

Being selected for the Retail Entrepreneur Program and selling at the ByWard Market Village is another proud milestone.

“For many immigrants, opportunities like this represent much more than business — they represent belonging, growth, and the chance to contribute to the community.”

Looking ahead, her vision extends beyond food.

“One of my biggest dreams is to grow this business into a company that creates meaningful employment opportunities for people facing barriers.”

For other immigrant entrepreneurs, her advice is simple:

“Start before you feel ready.”

There will never be a perfect moment — what matters is taking the first step.

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions… your story, your food, and your culture are your biggest differentiators.”

With patience, consistency, and belief in the process, growth will follow.

At Sabrosa Fusion, there is a simple invitation: “Taste and See How Good It Is!”

And in many ways, that message extends beyond the food — it’s an invitation to begin, to keep going, and to discover what’s possible.

If you are visiting during the ByWard Market Vendor Village, stop by Sabrosa Fusion to taste and experience these delicious flavours of Peru and Latin America!

Explore Sabrosa Fusion or stay updated on their latest projects. Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @sabrosafusion.ca. Mery's story is an inspiring example of how heritage, passion, and innovation can lead to extraordinary achievements.

This story is part of the Immigrant Entrepreneur Canada Retail Incubator Program, presented by RBC and supported by Meridian.