From Their Hands to Yours

Stories from the Market

From Home Kitchen to Market Table: The Story of Doña Issa

The holiday season has wound down, and we’re turning the page to welcome 2026 into our Market Village. We’re back — and grateful that you choose SNHFM week after week to support your New Year’s intentions for better health by shopping and eating local.

We’re looking forward to seeing familiar faces return in the new year, along with a few fresh faces and new intentions. All your favorite vendors are back, and we’re excited to introduce a few new ones as well.

With bone-chilling weather — “not fit for man nor beast,” as W.C. Fields once said — it’s officially Yankee hibernation season. Luckily, the Market has everything you need to hunker down and ride it out, from hearty meats and winter vegetables perfect for soups and stews, to ready-made hot snacks and meals you can enjoy while you shop or bring home to enjoy during Sunday playoffs.

One of our vendors, Doña Issa, is bringing bold, comforting flavors to the Market with authentic Peruvian food made from traditional recipes — wholesome, satisfying and made fresh the same day.

We caught up with Isabel, the heart behind Doña Issa, to learn more about her vision.

Why the name Doña Issa?

Doña Issa is me — Isabel. I chose the name because it reflects how I personally prepare each recipe, with quality, care and attention to detail.

Doña Issa was born from my Peruvian tradition of home cooking — using natural ingredients, authentic flavors, and food made fresh the same day, so every customer can enjoy my “taste of home.”

How did you decide what to offer customers?

We created a menu for people who value comforting, homemade food and also appreciate things like grass-fed meats and high-quality ingredients, prepared with an artisanal approach.

Which foods best represent Doña Issa, and which sell the most?

Our signature items — and best sellers — are our meat empanadas and shepherd’s pie, known for their flavor, quality and the homemade touch that customers recognize right away.

Who else is involved in the business?

This is a project between my daughter and me. She leads the administrative side, and her support is essential for Doña Issa to run smoothly and grow with a clear vision.

What have been your main challenges?

My biggest challenges have been overcoming the language barrier and navigating the paperwork and formalization process — making sure everything is in order so we can operate responsibly and consistently.

Where are you currently selling? Do you have a storefront or food truck?

We currently sell here, at the Salem NH Farmers Market. At this stage, we don’t have a storefront or food truck — we’re focused on building our presence at markets. We do have plans to grow and expand to more locations in the medium term.

Any new products coming to the Market?

We’ll be offering bone-warming Peruvian-style minestrone soup and rich chili for our customers — stop by our table to try them!

Do you cater, take orders or deliver?

We don’t offer catering or delivery yet, but we’re interested in developing those options as the business grows.

How can customers place larger orders for Market pickup?

Customers may call (603) 505-6879 to place larger orders for pickup at the Market.

What makes you most proud of your business?

What makes me most proud is seeing customers’ satisfaction when they try our food — it confirms the quality and effort behind Doña Issa.