Allen County
Founder Profile
Juliana
Restrepo
Business
Colombian Delights
Founded
2022
Idea
Bringing Authentic Colombian Street Food and Desserts to Fort Wayne’s Farmers Market Scene.
Sabor de Colombia, Juliana’s Culinary Adventure
Juliana Restrepo, a resilient entrepreneur from Colombia, embarked on her journey in the heart of Fort Wayne with a mission to introduce the vibrant flavors of her homeland to the local community. As the proud owner of “Colombian Delights,” Juliana specializes in crafting delectable Colombian street food and desserts, including helados, salpicón, cholao, and obleas colombianas. Her inspiration sprouted from a serendipitous moment when she shared her homemade ice cream recipe with her brother-in-law, who immediately recognized its potential and gifted her a freezer to kickstart her business.
Initially focusing on delivering home-cooked meals like bandeja paisa and arroz con pollo, Juliana soon realized the untapped potential in the market for authentic Colombian desserts. With determination and support from organizations like the Woman’s Business Center, she honed her skills, expanded her menu, and set her sights on reaching a broader audience.
Juliana’s dedication to her craft extends beyond business; it’s a family affair. As a single mother of three boys, she involves her children in every aspect of her venture, with her eldest son serving as her right-hand man during bustling Saturdays at the YLNI Farmers Market. Through her participation in the market, Juliana not only showcases her delicious creations but also fosters a sense of community, sharing a taste of Colombian culture with Fort Wayne residents.
With aspirations to expand her presence in the local farmers market scene, Juliana envisions using the Fortitude Fund grant to enhance her setup with essential equipment like tables, tents, and coolers. By investing in her business infrastructure, she aims to elevate the Colombian Delights experience and bring a little taste of Colombia to every corner of Fort Wayne. Juliana’s journey exemplifies resilience, passion, and the power of cultural exchange through food, making her a true culinary ambassador in the heart of Indiana.
Business Updates
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