By Samantha Hammer
1640 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente
949.441.7656
www.lacolombianaoc.com.
Eddy Bashoor grew up in La Tebaida, Quindio Colombia. Lemons, vinegar, olive oil, carrots, peas and potatoes were staples in her mother’s homestyle cooking. At a young age Bashoor loved cooking and paid close attention to her mother’s recipes, hoping to someday come to the United States to open her own restaurant.
“Coming to the U.S. was like thinking I could go to the moon,” Bashoor said.
She held onto the dream until the opportunity presented itself 46 years ago when she came to America.
Once in the States, Bashoor got experience working in several Orange County restaurants. Never afraid of hard work, she often held three or four jobs at one time.
Harold Alzate, Bashoor’s older son, said he always knew he would give his mother her dream one day. In September, La Colombiana opened, just three months before Bashoor’s 69th birthday.
Sensational aromas waft from La Colombiana’s open kitchen where fresh tamales, chicken, pork, fish and her signature empanada specialties are lovingly prepared.
The restaurant is quaint and colorful, a reflection of Bashoor’s charm and love for all of the restaurant’s operations. Outdoor seating is available on the patio.
La Colombiana serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and a children’s menu is available. Wine and beer are also offered.
“I am really blessed to open in San Clemente,” Bashoor said. “I love the people here. They are amazing and so supportive to me.”
PRICE RANGE: $2 – $16.95
PAYMENT ACCEPTED: Cash and credit cards
HOURS: 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
