Elvira’s Table: Bringing Authentic Mexican Cuisine to the Community
Elvira’s Table is more than just a food business; it’s a celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine, culture, and tradition. With a strong community presence, Elvira’s Table participates in the local farmers’ market every Saturday, offering signature dishes such as the renowned birria from Jalisco, tacos, tortas, soups, and more.
The mission of Elvira’s Table is to provide a culinary experience that not only delights the palate but also connects people to the rich heritage of Mexican gastronomy. Every dish is prepared with passion and dedication, using the highest-quality ingredients to ensure authentic flavours and freshness. Through this venture, Elvira’s Table has become a gathering place for those seeking genuine flavours and unique dining experiences.
Elvira Prado’s love for food began in childhood, with fond memories of visiting her aunt in a small fishing village. She watched as her aunt cooked tirelessly from early morning until late at night, preparing fresh meals for a large family. This experience instilled in Elvira a deep respect for the art of cooking. Food was more than nourishment; it was an expression of love, care, and community.
“That’s where my deep appreciation for the art of cooking comes from. Cooking is a passion—it is something that you give to others, a service, a joy that comes from seeing people delight in your creations. That is what I saw in my aunt Julia. Every time we sat at the table, it felt like a party, a celebration, a moment to enjoy the result of her hard work. From that, I developed a deep respect and admiration for this great profession that is cooking.”
Growing up in a family where both her mother’s and father’s relatives were passionate about cooking, Elvira learned that food could bring people together, create lasting memories, and convey emotions. Though she initially pursued a career in accounting due to limited culinary education opportunities in her hometown, she eventually followed her heart and enrolled in culinary school in Puerto Vallarta.
“As I got older, I momentarily lost focus on my passion. Where I lived, there were no culinary schools—it wasn’t easily accessible. The schools were in big cities, and they were very expensive. So, when I had to choose a career after high school, I followed my father’s suggestion and decided to study accounting. I applied, got in, and studied for almost two years, but it wasn’t something that satisfied me. It didn’t bring me joy or fulfillment. A year and a half into my studies, a culinary school opened in Puerto Vallarta, and I decided to enroll and begin my true journey. Cooking is my passion. It’s what I live for. It’s what keeps me alive and happy because I know I was born for this.”
Elvira’s culinary journey took her across the world. After completing her studies in Mexico, she worked in Canada in 2009 for two years and then pursued a diploma in Spanish gastronomy and culture in Seville, Spain. She gained invaluable experience in Michelin-starred restaurants, including a transformative internship at the renowned three-star Michelin restaurant Sant Pau in Sant Pol de Mar, Barcelona, under the mentorship of Chef Carme Ruscalleda.
“This restaurant was an incredible fusion of Catalan and Japanese cuisine, and it was the most significant experience of my professional life. It made me realize the importance of discipline, respect, teamwork, seriousness, and commitment in the kitchen. It showed me what it truly takes to work in top-tier kitchens and sustain a career in the culinary industry. After completing my internship, they offered me a job, and I worked with them for two excellent seasons. After that, I returned to Mexico with the intention of starting my own business, armed with all the knowledge and passion I had gained!”
Eventually, an opportunity to return to Canada presented itself, and with the support of the SPICE program offered through the Centre for Women in Business (CWB), she was able to fulfill her dream of launching Elvira’s Table.
“In 2019, the owners of the restaurant where I had previously worked in Canada reached out to me with an opportunity to return. This time, I had the possibility of obtaining residency and fulfilling my dream of opening my own business. Thanks to SPICE (which stands for Specialized Program in Cooking Entrepreneurship) and Natalie Frederick-Wilson (program lead ), I was able to start bringing my dream to life. Now, here I am, a month and a half into operations, and things are going incredibly well.”
Her personal and professional journey has shaped the way she runs her business. Beyond cooking, she has developed strong entrepreneurial skills, understanding the importance of cost management, efficient menu design, and delivering exceptional customer experiences.
“Growing up in an environment where food was an expression of love and community instilled in me a deep respect for fresh, local ingredients and heartfelt cooking.”
At Elvira’s Table, she follows a philosophy that blends tradition with excellence:
- Cooking with Purpose: Every dish tells a story and carries deep cultural significance.
- Respect for Ingredients: Using fresh, local products to highlight quality and authenticity.
- Hospitality and Connection: Creating a welcoming space where customers feel part of a larger culinary tradition.
- Discipline and Excellence: Applying the rigorous standards of fine dining to every aspect of the business.
“My personal journey has also influenced the way I run my business. From making the difficult decision to leave accounting behind to pursue my passion, to traveling to different countries in search of knowledge and experience, I have developed a resilient, adaptable, and visionary mindset.
Working in high-level restaurants and consulting projects has given me not only culinary skills but also a strategic business perspective. I understand that running a food business is not just about cooking, but also about managing costs, designing efficient menus, and ensuring a memorable experience for customers. All of this is reflected in the way I manage my business today. I don’t just serve delicious food—I create an experience that conveys authenticity, passion, and culture.”
SPICE played a crucial role in helping Elvira establish her business in Canada. Through mentorship, business guidance, and networking opportunities, the program provided the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship in a new country.
“SPICE has been a big factor in the launch and development of my business. Thanks to this program and the Centre for Women in Business, my success is a result of the tremendous work she has been doing; I have been able to turn a dream I had been pursuing for many years into reality.
The support has been essential in navigating the process of entrepreneurship in a new country, helping me better understand market regulations and available opportunities. It connected me with an invaluable support network, including mentors and key resources that have made business growth more accessible.
The program strengthened my confidence as a business owner by providing me with the tools to face the challenges of entrepreneurship with a solid foundation. Thanks to this initiative, my business is up and running successfully, allowing me to share my passion for cooking with more people and contribute to Canada’s culinary landscape.”
In 2025, Elvira’s primary goal is to solidify Elvira’s Table as a trusted culinary brand within the local community. This includes expanding its presence at community events and farmers’ markets, refining the menu, and building a loyal customer base through consistently high-quality service. She also aims to establish partnerships with local producers to ensure the freshest ingredients and streamline operations for efficiency.
Looking ahead, Elvira envisions expanding her business by opening a permanent dining space or extending catering services. Her dream is for Elvira’s Table to become a culinary destination known for its dedication to quality, its celebration of traditional Mexican cuisine, and its role in bringing people together through the joy of food.
“Embrace your cultural roots and let them inspire your menu and your approach to cooking. Authenticity is our greatest asset. Maintain your creative spark and always put quality and care into every dish you create. We have the power to transform our passion into a thriving business. Let your love for food guide you.”
Elvira’s journey from childhood fascination to seasoned chef and entrepreneur is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and cultural pride. Through Elvira’s Table, she continues to share her love for authentic Mexican cuisine, bringing people together one flavorful dish at a time.
Learn more about the SPICE program, made possible with the support of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture here.