Tomate Fresh Kitchen Fact: Tomate (Tomato) origins traced back to the early Aztecs, believing to be native to the Americas. Nahautl language, today Mexico and Guatemala Established by chef and founder Tania Merlos-Ruiz, Tomate Fresh Kitchen started among Chicago’s farmer’s market selling her beloved fruit & spice infused sorbets and hand crafted empanadas! A well-kept secret among Northwestern students in Evanston, Tomate Fresh Kitchen opened her doors in 2013, transforming typical Latin street foods to a gourmet experience. Tomate Fresh Kitchen takes an innovative approach to her cuisine, using locally sourced fresh ingredients. Today Tomate caters everything from private events to board meetings to festivals!