Today we’d like to introduce you to Allen Ofir Dearie
Hi Allen Ofir, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey is a blend of entrepreneurship, culture, and creativity. In the early 2000s, my family and I moved from San Diego to Quincy, Washington, where we opened a Mexican market together. It was there that we developed our brand, *Guero y Maria,* inspired by the rich culinary traditions shared with us by Mexican field workers. I learned firsthand about ingredients and cooking styles from regions like Oaxaca and Jalisco, and I gained a deeper appreciation for Mexican culture—ironically, while living in the U.S.
But my story isn’t just about business. Growing up in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, I was always drawn to creativity. From an early age, I understood marketing intuitively—my dad would point out billboard signs and ask me what they meant, and somehow, I just got it. I also immersed myself in art and music, taking art classes and eventually studying guitar at La Casa de la Cultura with Martín Santos, who is a true magician with the instrument. I played guitar in Latin rock bands, which allowed me to express myself and stay connected to the creative side of who I am.
These experiences—combining art, culture, and business—have shaped my approach to everything I do. Whether it’s through food, music, or marketing, I’ve always been passionate about storytelling and building meaningful connections.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been easy. Running a market means staying open seven days a week, and that comes with sacrifices. I’ve missed family weddings, birthdays, and even funerals because the business needed me. It’s a big commitment.
Despite the struggles, it’s been worth it. Those tough moments taught me resilience and made me appreciate the value of hard work and dedication.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Our Salsa Verde is a great example of how we honor traditional methods while creating something truly unique. We keep the recipe simple—tomatillos, onion, jalapeños, garlic, and sea salt. But the magic happens in the process. Instead of cooking everything quickly, we ferment all the ingredients together in stainless steel wine tanks.
Fermenting with sea salt allows the flavors to develop naturally, blending in a way that creates a depth and balance you just can’t achieve with faster methods. The result is a salsa verde unlike any other—rich, complex, and full of life.
This attention to detail is what sets Güero & Maria apart. It’s not just about the ingredients we use; it’s about the time and care we put into bringing out their best. When you taste our Salsa Verde, you’re experiencing the result of a process that respects both tradition and flavor.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
The Game of Life and How to Play It* by Florence Scovel Shinn has been a really helpful book for me, especially when it comes to running a business. Managing workers takes a lot of patience, and sometimes I catch myself micromanaging things too much. This book reminds me to step back and trust the process.
It’s helped me see that trying to control everything isn’t always the best way forward. It’s about setting the right intentions, staying focused on the bigger picture, and letting things flow naturally. Florence Scovel Shinn’s insights have really changed my perspective.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gueroymaria.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guero_y_maria/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GueroYMaria
- Twitter: https://x.com/GueroYMaria
- Youtube: @gueroymaria4072
