Meet Alissa Olmos | Bakery owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alissa Olmos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alissa, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Colibrí Panadería was born out of the idea of becoming closer to my roots while doing something I’ve always been passionate about, which is baking. As a third generation Mexican American who isn’t fluent in Spanish, I wanted to learn more about where I come from and I thought, what better way to do that than through food? This idea was amplified after my first trip to Mexico. After working in the restaurant industry for over 15 years, I decided to take the leap and start my own business.

What should our readers know about your business?
After working in the restaurant industry for over 15 years, I tried to break out of it. Simply put, I was tired. Mentally and physically. My anxiety and depression were both at an all-time high. I wish that more people realized how hard it is to work in the restaurant industry especially as a woman and as a woman of color. I thought that getting a 9-5 job was what I needed. After getting that 9-5, I quickly realized that it wasn’t for me and that my passion was truly in the kitchen. I didn’t want to continue breaking my back for someone else’s business, so that’s when I decided that I had to start something of my own. I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished so far. I knew that when I started my baking business, I wanted to put emphasis on making products from scratch. I knew that this would be more work and I was nervous that some people may not want to pay higher prices for this aspect however, it was non-negotiable for me. With Colibrí Panadería, I also wanted to bring Mexican bread to the forefront. To me, pan dulce (sweet bread) is highly underrated. Most people have never heard of it. After traveling to Mexico and making it myself, I realized that there is so much labor and love that goes into making it. I wholeheartedly believe that a cuernito is worthy of sharing the spotlight with a croissant and I want to show people that.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of my favorite places to visit is Bolsa Bazaar in Garland. I love the food court. You can get any type of food that you’re craving including tacos, pupusas, pizza, hamburgers, jerk chicken, you name it! You can also shop at many of the “tienditas” (small stores) inside of the bazaar and you can find most things you need including clothes, beauty services and much more. L.A. Burger is also one of my favorite restaurants. Their Korean twist on American and Mexican dishes are impressive. It’s a frequent spot for my family and I.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I couldn’t have my business without my wife, Michelle Olmos and my mother-in-law, Silvia Osorio. They push me to leave my comfort zone and they see the potential in me even when I don’t see it in myself. Michelle is right there by my side cranking out baked goods and on the days when I’m doubting myself, she makes me realize the bigger picture and keeps me going.

Instagram: @colibripanaderiatx

Facebook: colibripanaderiatx

Image Credits
Jean-Rémi Galinon, J.R. Photography