El Tesoro featured at Farmers Market

At the October 17th Woodfords Corner Farmers Market, shoppers stopped to sample foods from Tesoro Market, a Central American grocery store on Forest Avenue. The third event in partnership with the Portland Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO), FWC’s Shop Around the World - Just Around the Corner introduced some of our local international markets to the neighborhood . This one mile stretch of Forest Avenue from Baxter Woods to Rose Foods boasts 10 different international markets. Thank you to Tesoro Market owners Isaac and Katie for participating in the program!

Shop Around the World is an initiative of the OEO and FWC, designed to spotlight and celebrate the rich diversity of ethnic grocers and minority-owned businesses in the Woodfords Corner neighborhood. This initiative promoted and built traction for local small businesses by sponsoring promotional tents at the Woodfords Corner Farmers Market for three local grocers over the summer. Participating business owners were provided with a unique platform to share their stories, recipes, and products with the community in order to encourage more shoppers to visit and purchase goods from their stores.

Learn More About Tesoro Market

Meet Isaac Benavides, the owner of Tesoro Market on 675 Forest Ave on Woodfords Corner. Originally from El Salvador, Isaac first arrived in Boston, where he attempted to open his first store, Tesoro #1. Unfortunately, he faced early challenges and had to close the store after 8 months. When his friend, a pastor at El Sinai Church in Portland, encouraged him to come here, Isaac moved to Maine, along with a plan to try again to open the store.

After arriving in Portland, Isaac launched Tesoro #2. Despite facing a few tough years, especially during the pandemic, his dedication paid off—business has been steadily improving, and he has proudly owned Tesoro for seven years now.

Tesoro Market specializes in authentic Central American products, showcasing the rich culinary and cultural heritage of the region. From fresh and frozen tamales to baked goods, fresh queso, and a variety of Central American fruits, Tesoro Market offers a taste of home for many. Isaac values the community he's found in Portland and looks forward to sharing his culture with everyone who walks through the doors. 

The City’s Natural Helpers Program fellow will be gifting the owner with signage for his store front. Belinda Vemba, from Cohort 1, will be using part of her impact fund to support this small business.