Cielo Rojo: Flavors from Mexico

Cielo Rojo makes you feel right at home and offers a variety of delicious Mexican dishes.

Owner Emmanuell Maldonado said Cielo Rojo is a Mexican seafood restaurant inspired by his family’s hometown of Guanajuato, Mexico, and his experience growing up alongside his mother and grandmothers.

For guests trying the restaurant for the first time, Maldonado said they should start off with the ceviche, which is marinated for 24 hours to get the fresh, crisp and citrusy flavor.

He also recommends the ribeye molcajete for groups to share and enjoy. Maldonado said it is steamed at 350 degrees with grilled chicken, fried fish, two types of grilled shrimp and steamed octopus.

Maldonado said the name of the restaurant translates to “red sky,” which pays respect to Arizona’s iconic sunsets and the future of Cielo Rojo.

Maldonado said he focuses on giving guests the best experience and wants them to feel good right when they enter the door.

“Experience is a word we take very seriously,” Maldonado said. “We want you to walk in, and feel good.”

Guest Athena Sanchez said she first discovered Cielo Rojo because of its close proximity to where she lives. Every time she walks in, she said it brings her right back to being at her grandmother’s house.

Sanchez said she starts with the Madrazzo fries, topped with tender and flavorful carne asada.

Next up, Sanchez said she had her favorite dish on the menu, the sopas, which are deep fried corn masa with beans and meat on top.

To go along with her meal, Sanchez had the classic margarita with Añejo.

Sanchez’s pro tip: Go on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday night to enjoy the live music and happy hour menu.