Meet Melisa Estrada Bustamante | Foodie & Digital Marketing Specialist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melisa Estrada Bustamante and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melisa, what do you want people to remember about you?
As a foodie content creator, my legacy would be to inspire people to explore the world through food, to appreciate diverse culinary traditions, and to find joy in cooking and sharing meals with others. I would love to be remembered as someone who sparked curiosity, creativity, and connection through the universal language of food. Whether it is through my recipes, food reviews, cultural explorations, or culinary adventures, I hope to leave behind a legacy of delicious memories and a hunger for discovery.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My brand is all about celebrating the joy of cooking, exploring diverse cuisines, and fostering a sense of community around food. What sets me apart is my genuine passion for culinary exploration and my commitment to sharing that passion with others in a relatable and accessible way.

One aspect I am particularly proud of is the authenticity and diversity of my content. Whether I am sharing a family recipe passed down through generations or trying out a new fusion dish inspired by my travels, I strive to honor the richness and complexity of food culture around the world.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a journey filled with both challenges and triumphs. It certainly has not been easy, but overcoming obstacles has only made me more resilient and determined. One key lesson I have learned along the way is the importance of authenticity and staying true to myself and my vision, even when faced with external pressures or trends.

I have also learned the power of collaboration and community. Building relationships with fellow food enthusiasts, collaborating with other content creators, and listening to feedback from my audience have all been instrumental in my growth and success.

Ultimately, I want the world to know that my brand is more than just recipes and food photos and reels—it is about fostering connection, sparking curiosity, and celebrating the universal language of food. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or just starting out on your culinary journey, there is a place for you in my kitchen, and I am excited to share the adventure with you.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As a foodies of course my itinerary will focus on trying the newest restaurants in the city:

Day 1: Welcome to Miami

Start with a delicious Cuban lunch at Sergio’s Cuban in the heart of Miami.
Explore the vibrant Wynwood Walls and grab a coffee at Panther Coffee.
Experience modern Asian cuisine at KYU in Wynwood, known for its wood-fired dishes and inventive flavors.

Day 2: Beach Day and Seafood Feast

Start the day with breakfast at Abbalé Telavivian Kitchen in South Beach.
Spend the morning relaxing on South Beach and soaking up the sun.
Enjoy fresh seafood at La Camaronera Fish Market, a local favorite for its shrimp sandwiches and ceviche.
Stroll along Ocean Drive and explore the Art Deco architecture.
Indulge in a seafood feast at Estiatorio Milos in Miami Beach, known for its elegant Greek cuisine and stunning ocean views.

Day 3: Little Havana and Latin Flavors

Start the day with a cortadito and pastelito at Versailles Restaurant, an iconic Cuban spot in Little Havana.
Take a guided tour of Little Havana to learn about its rich cultural heritage and vibrant street art.
Have lunch at Salty Flame an asian-influenced restaurant in Brickell that specializes in steak
Enjoy the afternoon at Brickell City Center
Try innovative Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine at Coya Miami in Brickell, featuring a lively atmosphere and creative dishes.

Day 4: Food Tour of Coconut Grove

Explore the charming streets of Coconut Grove and grab breakfast at Chug’s Diner.
Take a food tour of Coconut Grove, sampling local delicacies from various restaurants and eateries.
Savor modern Italian cuisine at Strada in the Grove, known for its handmade pastas and seasonal ingredients.

Day 5: Downtown Dining and Rooftop Cocktails

Have breakfast at the hotel and enjoy the pool.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Fooq’s in Downtown Miami, featuring eclectic Persian-American cuisine.
Visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) to admire contemporary art and stunning waterfront views.
Dine at Jaguar Sun in Downtown Miami, a trendy spot serving creative cocktails and modern American fare.
End the night with drinks and panoramic views at Sugar, a rooftop bar located atop the EAST, Miami hotel in Brickell City Centre.

Day 6: Culinary Exploration in Coral Gables

Visit the historic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables and enjoy brunch at Fontana.
Explore the shops and boutiques along Miracle Mile.
Experience farm-to-table dining at Ariete in Coconut Grove, known for its innovative menu and cozy atmosphere.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch and Food Market

Bid farewell with a decadent brunch at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar in Miami Beach, featuring classic Southern dishes with a modern twist.
Visit the bustling Lincoln Road Mall and explore the local shops and street performers.
Spend the evening at Regatta, a vibrant waterfront food market with live music, food trucks, and outdoor seating.

This itinerary offers a diverse culinary experience, highlighting the newest and most exciting restaurants in Miami while also exploring the city’s cultural landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Of course, I would like to dedicate my “shoutout” to all the passionate chefs, and cooking enthusiasts who have shared their knowledge, recipes, and culinary experiences with me. To restaurant owners and managers who have believed in me and my content. I would also like to thank the amazing communities and food content creators in which I have found inspiration and support.

And mainly to my family, my mother and grandmother who made me fall in love with cooking, and my father for teaching me his love for gastronomy and new flavors.

Website: https://melisaestradab.my.canva.site/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meli.tastes/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisaestradabustamante/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/melisaestradab

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meli.tastes

Other: https://www.instagram.com/melisaestradab/