itting in the heart Rosemont, Mestiza manages to fit right in with the abundance of Latin grocers in the area, although it stands out in more ways than one. The location is labeled a fine Mexican grocer, and it’s the "fine" that sets this shop apart. From the moment you walk in, you know that the shop is nothing like the crowded, tiny shops that, although have character, lack modern style.

This shop sports white walls with light wood accents such as a shelf and a table, which on which colourful, real-deal Mexican products are sparsely ornamented. The store's owner, Nadia Rolánd, personally goes to Mexico where she handpicks products she wants to sell.

"It's not like I'm buying my products from this giant corporation," she said. "I have a personal relationship with the people who make these products and the profits they make go back to the Mexican community."

Imagine my surprise that the shop turns out to be sharp, well-stocked, and best of all, thorough. All of the food items she carries are distinctively Mexican. Rolánd explained that one of the most popular and common Mexican products is called "mole" and compared it to what curry is to the Indian culinary culture – meaning, Mexicans use it on everything.

It's a very thick, concentrated paste that is traditionally cooked with meats and vegetables; Mestiza sells five varieties, one of which has peppers, sugar, peanuts, sesame seeds, raisins and chocolate – and yes, the peppers are most definitely hot.