Our Story
Hi! My name is Fernanda and I'm the owner of El Bondi Gluten Free Empanadas. I was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina and lived all my life there until January 2019, when I moved with my family to San Diego, CA. I have a Master's Degree in Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor's degree in HR and before moving to United States, I used to work in the diplomatic sector promoting international trade.
I moved to San Diego to be near the ocean so, when I'm not cooking Empanadas, you can find me at the beach either surfing or teaching how to surf since I'm also a freelance surf instructor for beginners.
I also volunteer as a surf instructor for "Paddle for Peace" and "For Our Neighborhood" which fills my heart with joy. Please say hi if you see me out there ;)
The Gluten Free Journey
The gluten free journey started back in January 2019, when my daughter was diagnosed with Celiac Disease at the age of 5, a few days before we move internationally from Argentina to California.
Since then, as every Celiac parent knows, it has been a daily challenge, apart from the frustration and sadness provoked from seeing your kid crying at every birthday party from not being able to share and enjoy the food the rest eat. One of the things that my daughter missed the most was Empanadas and since then, I’ve committed to providing her gluten free and celiac safe options that resemble the ones she used to eat back in Argentina. As years passed, the need to provide other options to the gluten free community as well as share our culture and family heritage in each hand crafted empanada became inevitable. Now, I envision my abuelas smiling somewhere out there knowing that their recipes are being enjoyed by many, which brings me great joy and happiness.
Without any further thought, get on board the Argentine Bondi and enjoy the gluten free ride! :)
Save these dates!!!
11/01: First Friday Vegan Market
at Grossmont Center, La Mesa 4-8pm
11/02: Chani's Donuts Anniversary Party
11/03: Rancho Santa Fe Farmer's Market
16079 San Dieguito Road- 9:30 am-2pm
11/09: Multicultural Celebration 2024,
3200 Main Street, Lemon Grove, 12-4 pm
11/15: La Mesa Wine Works
8167 Center St., La Mesa, 5-8pm
11/17: Rancho Santa Fe Farmer's Market
16079 San Dieguito Road- 9:30 am-2pm
11/23:Thanksgiving Gluten Free Pop-up
2647 Ariane Dr, San Diego, 10am-1pm
11/24: Rancho Santa Fe Farmer's Mkt
9:30am-2pm
11/25 &11/26: Thanksgiving Pop-up
2647 Ariane Dr, San Diego 10am-1pm