Flaquita: A Family Cantine with South American Flavour

Marlene Luce Tremblay
Mar 16
2 min read

On a quiet street in Hudson, the aroma of freshly baked pastry now drifts from a small cantine called Cantine Flaquita — a warm and welcoming place where South American flavors meet the relaxed charm of a small town. The name itself carries a personal story. Flaquita, meaning “the little skinny one” in Spanish, was the affectionate nickname given to chef Emily by her grandfather when she was a child.

The venture was made possible with the support of Hudson entrepreneur Charlie, owner of the well-known Kingfisher Pub. Passionate about the town and its community, Charlie was intrigued when he first heard about his golfing friend’s daughter who was making exceptional empanadas. Curious, he visited the farmers’ market where Emily was selling her creations — and quickly recognized the potential for something special.

Emily behind the Counter in her kitchen

Emily’s specialty is the empanada — a half-moon shaped pastry with delicately crimped edges that seal in a savory filling. At Flaquita she offers several varieties, including beef, pork, chicken, smoked meat, and a vegetarian option made with corn and beans, bringing a taste of South America to Hudson.

Fresh Empanadas, Zaatar (Lebanese Herb Mix) Pizza & Detroit Pizza

Her love of cooking began early. Emily often credits her maternal grandfather, who enthusiastically praised the dishes she prepared using flavors inspired by her grandmother’s kitchen. With an Ecuadorian mother and a French-Canadian father, Emily grew up surrounded by a rich blend of culinary traditions.

Determined to pursue her passion professionally, Emily attended the Stratford Chefs School in Ontario. There, fate intervened when she met her mentor, Riccardo Camanini, who had been invited as an International Chef-in-Residence from Lake Garda. Impressed by her talent, Chef Camanini offered Emily an internship in Italy. Although his restaurant could not arrange the necessary work permits, opportunity appeared just next door at the renowned Ristorante Villa Feltrinelli, the Michelin-starred restaurant of Stefano Baiocco. Located in the lakeside town of Gargnano, Villa Feltrinelli is one of the most celebrated villas on Lake Garda.

Emily has been working in restaurants since the age of fifteen, building experience in Calgary, Toronto, California, and Montreal before bringing her talents closer to home. Today, that experience and passion come together at Flaquita.

Yet beyond the food, Emily had another vision for the space. As the mother of two young daughters, she understands the rhythm of family life. Flaquita has been designed as a welcoming, kid-friendly environment, complete with a small play area where children can feel safe and entertained while parents relax and enjoy their meal. In many ways, Flaquita reflects Emily herself — warm, vibrant, and rooted in family. And in Hudson, it has quickly become a place where good food and community naturally come together.