Chef Alex Tellez brings authentic masa to Kensington

Chef Alex Tellez has introduced an innovative masa program at Sor Ynéz, located in Kensington, Philadelphia, which aims to bring authentic Mexican flavors to the local community. By sourcing heirloom maize from independent farmers in Mexico, Tellez's team produces fresh masa in-house, significantly improving the quality of their tortillas and tamales. The restaurant offers 12 packs of white corn tortillas and masa by the kilo, available for purchase from Tuesday to Saturday. In collaboration with nearby Small World Seafood, Sor Ynéz creates unique seafood tamales using seasonal ingredients. Tellez emphasizes the importance of connecting Philadelphians with traditional culinary practices, moving away from the typical Tex-Mex offerings.

The restaurant recently reopened after a brief closure to develop the masa program, currently employing around 20 staff members. Over the past few years, Tellez has observed a growing appreciation for authentic Mexican cuisine in Philadelphia, highlighting the evolution of the city's culinary landscape. Sor Ynéz is committed to providing high-quality, locally-sourced products while aiming to participate in farmer's markets in the future.