The culinary landscape of Phoenix is welcoming a slice of the Maldonado family's heritage with the opening of their new restaurant, Cielo Rojo. A venture distinct from their long-established Mariscos Playa Hermosa, Cielo Rojo introduces a mix of Salvatierra, Guanajuato, and Oaxaca cuisine to the Valley food scene, promising a unique dining experience.

According to Emmanuell Maldonado, creative director and offspring of the founding couple Jose and Maria Maldonado, the new locale aims to mirror the family’s culture presenting dishes like the 'largas' tortillas, a staple in Salvatierra to the customers, "get that same exact feeling in your belly and your soul, but in a... little bit elevated presentation," Emmanuell Maldonado told ABC15. The new joint invigorates the local food scene, leveraging the brand recognition along with its sister restaurant which grabbed the bragging rights as Best Mexican Seafood by Phoenix picks in 2023.

Being less than a mile away from Mariscos Playa Hermosa, which has been satiating seafood appetites since 2002, Cielo Rojo undertakes the challenge of maintaining the Maldonado brand's commendable reputation; “We have 22 years of brand recognition with Playa Hermosa, so people are going to judge us, based off of that," Emmanuell Maldonado explained to Phoenix New Times.

The menu is a heartfelt compilation of the Maldonado family's personal favorites, whisking together traditional preparations and accommodating modern dietary trends, like vegetarian and vegan options, and it doesn't skimp, the menu features delicacies such as a 21-ingredient mole aiming to satisfy both sweet and spicy cravings, according to the tastes that span across different regions of Mexico, not to mention the squash-blossom quesadilla and an appetizer known as carne apache which Emmanuell remembers fondly from his childhood "My family and I always loved it." The contemporary and moody ambiance of Cielo Rojo stands in contrast to Mariscos Playa Hermosa's bright, beachy tones, centered around a bar and adorned with custom woodwork and local artistry.

Located at 1919 N 16th St, Phoenix, Cielo Rojo throws open its doors to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, with brunch offerings on Sundays; those who prefer planning can make reservations at the restaurant's official website and savor a piece of the Maldonado family legacy.