From the moment I tasted its lusty mole sauces and made-to-order, griddled corn tortillas, I fell in love with the Oaxacan Kitchen.

You will, too, when its founder Ron Kent joins me for a cooking demo at Macy’s Valley Fair in Santa Clara, 6 p.m. May 7.

You may think you know Mexican food. But Oaxacan Kitchen — which has its own food truck that makes the rounds of the Peninsula, as well as food stands at local farmers markets — sets itself apart from the run-of-the-mill with its richly authentic flavors.

The state of Oaxaca in southern Mexico is regarded as one of that country’s great gastronomic centers. Kent will teach you how to make one of its fabled dishes, and provide the recipe for you to make at home.

The free cooking demo takes place in the culinary kitchen on the main floor of the Men’s and Home store.