Arts & Culture, Dining

Hispanic Heritage Month

by Kendall Kirkpatrick

We are in the middle of Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15- October 15) and here in the Wood River Valley we’re continuously grateful for the Hispanic community and all that they bring to our valley. This Hispanic Heritage Month we wanted to highlight some businesses in our valley that are owned and run by Hispanic members of our community as well as provide resources to encourage continued learning and support.

Since Idaho gained statehood in 1890 the Latino community has been an integral part of the states population and industries. As the Wood River Valley’s agricultural demands grew the latino population grew along side it. After mining died down in the valley, the largest industry became sheepherding. While many of the early herders were Scottish and Basque, today a majority of herders in the state are Peruvian. You can see the three nationalities represented during the Trailing of the Sheep Festival every October. Today the Hispanic population makes up 22%, and growing, of Blaine County.

Trailing of the sheep parade
Dancer at Trailing of the Sheep Parade
Dancers at Trailing of the Sheep
Dancer at Trailing of the Sheep Parade

Resources and Tools to learn about the Hispanic Community in Idaho

Hispanic Owned Businesses

The Herrera brothers have taken on the fine dining scene in the valley creating unique spaces in small houses in Ketchum and menus that make your mouth water. Rodrigo is the chef and owner of Vintage and has created a great place for New American dinning with a focus on organic and naturally raise meat. Pier Herrera is head chef and owner of Rominna’s which opened in 2013. Rominna’s provides contemporary Italian menu and over 200 wines to pair with your meal, you will always find something you love. 

La Cabanita Mex opened in Ketchum in 2008 on the same block as the post office. Since then, they have expanded the business and opened 3 other locations, Hailey, Bellevue, and Meridian. They offer authentic Mexican food with over 25 years of experience from owner Rodolfo Armenta. Head there to get a Modelo and some enchiladas to enjoy a fun night with friends.

Hailey Coffee Co.‘s two locations are owned by Santos Serva. Head there for either a cup of coffee, homemade baked goods, or smoothie. Stop in to grab a coffee with friends or to spend some alone time with a good book.

Aroma was recently opened by Juan Flores, who used to work at the restaurant that used to be in the same building. With a focus on providing an upscale breakfast and lunch service, with Brunch on Sundays, it is truly a unique addition to the valley

Novedades Angel is a Hispanic goods and grocery store in Hailey. They provide various holiday gifts, jewelry, clothing and more. Since they are always changing what they have, it’s a great spot to visit throughout the year to get gifts, maybe even for yourself.

Additional Hispanic Owned Businesses

  • Serva
  • KB’s
  • Saffron Indian Cuisine
  • Sushi on Second
  • Burger Grill
  • Mama Inez
  • Perfect Appearance Collision Auto
  • H Property Service

Please let us know if there are others that we have missed and should add to the list at [email protected]

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