Some of our greatest memories come from sitting at our abuela’s counter, watching her prepare a meal. We would sit as the food came alive listening, learning, and taking it all in.
When we got old enough, she would finally show us her ways. She would give us small tasks, and tell us what to add to the pot. It felt like being let in on the biggest secret.
Looking back now, what stands out most isn’t just the food, but the joy. As our abuelas cooked, there was always a smile on their faces. Now, as moms ourselves, we understand why. That smile wasn’t just about a love for cooking, it was about knowing the food she was making would bring the family together. Everyone would gather, sit down, and share whatever delicious meal she had prepared. It’s like the pot called us home.
That is where Abuela’s Counter began.
It’s the place where we learned how to cook, where our love for food was shaped, and where we saw firsthand how powerful a shared meal can be. Abuela’s Counter exists to bring that same feeling to you — the confidence, the connection, and the joy that comes from cooking for the people you love. We want to let you in on the biggest secret.
We want to create a space where you feel comfortable in the kitchen. A place where you feel brave enough to try the recipes you grew up loving, even if they once felt intimidating. Through approachable techniques and simplified recipes, our goal is to help you bring your kitchen to life and gather your family around the table.
Because food doesn’t just feed us, it does so much more. Food brings us together.
Meet the Women Behind Abuela’s Counter
Chef Ani Mezerhane
Chef Ani Mezerhane is married with two children and has loved food for as long as she can remember. She trained at Le Cordon Bleu and gained invaluable experience working in restaurants and running her own catering company. Still, her greatest inspiration comes from her childhood home: her mom, abuelas, and tías. Their cooking continues to shape the way she approaches food today.
Cristina Bustamante
Cristina Bustamante is married with three children and has loved food since her first bite of a croqueta. After attending law school and running her own business, she found her way back to the kitchen as a content creator. Her love of cooking is deeply rooted in the lessons passed down by her abuela and tías, who showed her how food can be one of the most meaningful ways to express love.
No matter where life takes us, it always comes back to food. From sitting at abuela’s counter, learning about life, and discovering how a meal can bring people together. We hope to bring this our kids and generations to come.