About us

Welcome to Xinachtli (sheen-ach-tlee / ʃinaːtʃtɬi)

A sanctuary of authentic Mexican culinary arts nestled in the heart of East Vancouver on Coast Salish Territory.

Our name, ‘Xinachtli,’ is derived from the Nahuatl language, meaning ‘seed’—a symbol of growth and potential. We specialize in transforming heirloom corn and cacao into traditional Mexican foods that are not only delicious but also deeply rooted in cultural heritage.

Our Journey

Founded in 2020 by Luis Almazan, a passionate advocate for indigenous agriculture and culinary traditions, Xinachtli emerged from a desire to reconnect with and preserve the authentic flavors and traditional food preparation methods of Mexico. Trained in culinary arts in Mexico City, Luis not only developed a foundation in cooking but also an appreciation for the deep cultural heritage of Mexican cuisine.

After culinary school, Luis ventured into the visual effects industry, where he contributed his artistic skills to various high-profile feature films and developed a keen eye for detail and aesthetics. This unique blend of culinary and visual arts expertise fueled his creative approach to food, merging traditional techniques with a flair for presentation.

Luis’s journey through the vibrant markets and rural communities of Mexico inspired him to bring the same authenticity and quality to Vancouver, where he saw a need for genuine, traditionally-made Mexican food products.

His multifaceted background in film, photography, and culinary arts enriches the story of Xinachtli, infusing each product with a narrative of cultural preservation and artistic passion.

Why Choose Xinachtli?

Unlike typical store-bought alternatives laden with preservatives and synthetic ingredients, our products promise purity and authenticity. Each tortilla and chocolate bar we produce is a reflection of our commitment to unadulterated quality—free of hybrids, GMOs, and unnecessary additives.

Our tortillas are a testament to diversity and taste, offering a variety of corn types, each with its unique flavor profile. Meanwhile, our chocolates and moles are concocted using recipes that Luis has perfected over years of exploration and learning from indigenous communities.

Our Mission

Xinachtli is more than just a food company; it’s a movement towards reviving and sustaining the indigenous foodways that are at risk of being lost in today’s fast-paced, industrial food culture. We aim to nurture a connection between people and the food they eat, highlighting the importance of ingredients’ origins, the people who grow them, and the methods used to prepare them.

Our Craft

At Xinachtli, we believe in the artistry of traditional food preparation. Our cornerstone products—corn tortillas, rich moles, and chocolates—are crafted from scratch using age-old techniques like nixtamalization.

Each batch starts with the finest ingredients: non-GMO, heirloom corn varieties and organic cacao, sourced from small-scale farmers across Mexico’s rich landscapes—from the volcanic highlands of Estado de Mexico to the lush fields of Chiapas.

This not only ensures premium quality but also supports sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both the earth and its people.

Join us!

We invite you to explore our selection and taste the difference that dedication and heritage can make. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast eager to explore authentic Mexican cuisine or someone looking for healthier, more sustainable food options, Xinachtli offers something unique for your table.

Explore our offerings and order directly through our website, or visit us at local farmers’ markets and select restaurants across Vancouver. Dive into the world of Xinachtli, where every bite tells a story of tradition, quality, and passion.

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