About Cocina Linda
At Cocina Linda we've always focused on preparing food by staying loyal to the traditions in cooking that emanate from the indigenous people of Mexico. Locally produced ingredients are used during the growing season and the freshest ingredients are used in all of her dishes. No preservatives are used and the recepies such as the salsas, have been adapted to reduce the use of fats. All of the meats we use are free of hormones and antibiotics and when possible, they are sourced locally.
"Given our beginnings at the Farmer's Market we are very aware of the need for healthy food that is made with local ingredients. Thus, we are commited to the use of local meats, eggs and produce in our cooking. In doing so, we have found ways to promote and support local farming and provide the healthiest food for our customers."
You can taste the labor of love in everything Linda prepares at Cocina Linda.
About Linda
Linda was born and raised in Uruapan, Michoacan. This town, which is 500 miles due West of Mexico City, is an area known for its culinary traditions. After graduating from high school, she moved to California and started working in restaurants, with the desire to learn the trade and travel. The Culinary Institute of America in New York was her next stop and the journey to the opening of Cocina Linda began.
During the next 25 years, Linda's wealth of knowledge grew from working in bakeries and Mexican restaurants in the Bay area, to an organic vegetarian co-op in England, to a Two-Michelin star restaurant in Holland. While she enjoyed the range of experience in cooking during these years, Mexican food remained her passion!
Linda moved to Durango in 2000 after falling in love with the area and its people. Looking to find a way to make a living, the idea of selling tamales at the Farmer's Market emerged. A borrowed pop-up tent from a friend, a couple of camping stoves and a growing loyal following cultivated the growth of Cocina Linda.
Cocina Linda in the Press
Following are some local press releases / news stories on Cocina Linda:
Cocina Linda As seen in the Four Corners Business Journal 
Cocina Linda As seen in Durango Telegraph July 16, 2009
Cocina Linda As seen in Durango Herald July 9, 2008
Inside TV Durango Segments on "Durango Cooks" featuring Cocina Linda's
Durango Cooks welcomes Linda Illsley of Cocina Linda. Part 1, Nov 2009.
Durango Cooks welcomes Linda Illsley of Cocina Linda. Part 2, Nov 2009.
Durango Cooks welcomes Linda Illsley of Cocina Linda. Part 3, Nov 2009.
Durango Cooks welcomes Linda Illsley of Cocina Linda. Part 4, Nov 2009.
