WRITTEN BY CAITLIN M. DEWICKI
Photo by CR Productions
Among Michigan’s vibrant food scene, one family-owned business stands out for its commitment to crafting the freshest and most vibrant salsa around. Detroit Salsa, a company deeply intertwined with the community, has been winning hearts and taste buds since its inception in 2016.
Family Roots
Finn, son of owner Ray Gomez, began Detroit Salsa Company’s journey in middle school. His assignment was to create a business plan, company name, and logo. Finn decided his Great-Grandmother’s salsa recipe was the one thing worthy of an A.
His Great-Grandmother was raised in Detroit and her family quickly became rooted in food. Ray Gomez recalls how, as a young boy, his family was involved in wedding catering and he was tasked with slicing the tomatoes. With their vibrant history it was only fitting to blend the same spirit seamlessly into the freshness of Detroit Salsa Co.
Photo by CR Productions
With a desire to turn this middle school assignment into a full-fledged business, the Gomez family acquired the name “Detroit Salsa Company” within a week and got to work. They started producing their salsa in the kitchen of a pizza shop.
The help and support they were shown allowed them to offer salsa samples to local businesses and gradually work their way to grocery store demos. Today, they own their own store-front and are proudly available in 28 markets, with a presence in three Meijer stores as well as Meijer markets such as Woodward Corner Market in Royal Oak.
Photo by CR Productions
Their mission is simple yet profound: to provide the best fresh salsa to as many people as possible, all while staying true to their roots as a family business.
“I love what I do. I can’t see myself anywhere else.”
Small-Batch Salsa
Detroit Salsa Co. prides itself on producing small-batch salsa that’s made fresh everyday with simple ingredients. Their commitment to quality shines through, as their salsas contain no sugar or preservatives.
Photo by CR Productions
Every batch resonates with their customers as the value of high-quality ingredients are on the rise and is matched with the consistency of freshness.
Their product lineup includes a delightful array of flavors, from the classic Red Salsa with a tomato base to their Guacamole Salsa made with avocado and tomatillo, both with varying degrees of spices. Salsa Verde and Avocado Pico are also among their offerings, with a promise of exciting new additions in the works!
Grounded in Community
At the heart of Detroit Salsa Company’s success lies a deep connection to the community. Ray Gomez acknowledges that their journey wouldn’t have been possible without the support of their family and the local community. The Gomez family actively participates in fundraisers and raises awareness for cancer research. As a business they work to give back to the community through monthly raffles and collaboration with events, including band fundraisers.
Detroit Salsa Company’s commitment to community extends to sourcing ingredients locally. They support a local school which helps mentally handicapped children learn essential skills, including farming. The company’s contributions to the school allows them to receive a part of the harvest whenever possible, reinforcing the cycle of support and growth.
Their challenges, particularly during the transition from a temporary kitchen to their own brick-and-mortar establishment, have only propelled them forward. Detroit Salsa’s vision includes expanding to more Meijer stores, ready to take on the challenge, and exploring new business opportunities that await on the horizon!
“We love what we do, we love each other, and we love the community.”
Got Salsa?
The Gomez family is humble and down-to-earth. Their passion for salsa and each other shines through in the quality of their products and the unwavering support of their customers.
On days when the challenges seem overwhelming, a look at the outpouring of love and support from the community on their social pages reminds Ray Gomez that their customers truly care for them and their delicious salsa.
This company is not just about salsa; it’s about family, community, and a shared love for flavorful, fresh ingredients. As they continue to grow and thrive, their commitment to these values remains unwavering, making them a true treasure in the local community.
You can find Detroit Salsa Co. products at Woodward Corner Market in our Deli department!