Isabelle Torralba opened "Casa Isabel" in Le Puy-en-Velay following a career change. Her shop is located at 10 rue Saint-JacquesSince the beginning of September, she has been selling gourmet products from Spain, much to the delight of lovers of ham, cheese, and other Iberian specialties. Originally from Valencia, Spain, she is now realizing a project she had been considering for several years.
What made you want to open this store?
Isabelle Torralba: I worked in export for 17 years and decided I wanted a change of pace when I turned 40. I did something I was passionate about: introducing people to Spanish cuisine. I'm originally from Valencia, where my parents still live.
And why in Le Puy-en-Velay?
Isabelle Torralba: Because it's a city where you feel good! There's real potential here because people love good, quality products. So I can meet their needs by offering them flavors that remind them of holidays in Spain and others they don't know.
What types of products can be found in your store?
Isabelle Torralba: There is, of course, charcuterie, Iberian ham, 100% Pata Negra, 75% Iberian, but also Teruel PDO, chorizo, and everything you need to enhance your dishes. There are also kits for making paella at home and exceptional oils produced biodynamically by a producer from Cordoba, canned seafood, Manchego cheese, gazpacho, and also a few bottles of wine with character.
Any lesser-known specialties as well?
Isabelle Torralba: First of all, I'm almost certain I'm the only one selling Pata Negra ham here! The same goes for the anchovies I offer. Their flavor is a real treat! And then there's Sobrasada, which is a kind of chorizo spread mixed with spices. It's eaten with a slice of toasted bread and a little olive oil. There are also spreads like flavored tuna flakes, which are very popular, for example, at a cocktail party.
Is it possible to reserve appetizer platters?
Isabelle Torralba: Yes. I offer ham and cheese platters for 4 or 8 people, by reservation. These range from a tasting platter of Iberian Bellota ham to Teruel charcuterie with a few slices of Manchego cheese!
How did you select your suppliers?
Isabelle Torralba: I had the opportunity to visit their facilities in Spain, often small, local, artisanal, and above all, family-run businesses. For me, it's important that the manufacturing processes be as simple and natural as possible to prioritize the taste of the products. The fish processed into cans, for example, comes from fishing practices that respect the animal and its environment. The tuna, for instance, is bled directly on the boat to avoid any stress for the animal. To have all the products delivered, I decided to consolidate my orders with one of the best Iberian grocers, based in Brittany. We work with the same suppliers, which helps to reduce shipping costs.
What type of clientele are you targeting?
Isabelle Torralba: First and foremost, epicureans. Connoisseurs who want to rediscover the taste of what they had the opportunity to eat in Spain through my products, so they can relive those fond memories. And then, those who simply want to discover Spanish gastronomy.
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