From Mexico to Phoenix: How Okay Maguey’s Owner Preserves His Family’s Culinary Legacy

For over 15 years, I have lived in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. As a culinary hub with a wide variety of dining options, including American and international cuisines, I have tried everything from small hole-in-the-wall eateries to fine-dining establishments. Because Arizona borders Mexico, there is no shortage of Mexican restaurants here, but one that has stood out to me in the past couple of years is Okay Maguey, a modern taco bar with a welcoming, neighborhood feel. Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with the owner, Miguel Angel Peredo, about the inspiration behind his restaurant and menu, and our conversation made me appreciate it even more.

Meet the Owner Behind Maguey Taco Bar

Miguel Angel Peredo was born in Mexico City, Mexico, just 25 years ago. During his younger years, Miguel learned to cook from family members and eventually worked in kitchens. He eventually transitioned to the packaging industry, which gave him a great base to learn sales and managing people. But he felt the pull back into the restaurant industry, all while having that innate desire to work for himself. He said, "I don't want to work for anyone else; I want to work for myself. I wanted my own business... with food."

His dream of owning his own restaurant came to fruition when Okay Maguey opened its doors on May 23, 2024, just two years ago. Jose Rodrizguez, who worked in restaurants in both California and Arizona and also has Mexican heritage, is Okay Maguey's chef. (Jose and Miguel had worked together in another Mexican restaurant, where Jose helped him refine his own cooking techniques.)

Today, the restaurant is thriving, and it will be exciting to see what else this young entrepreneur and restauranteur has planned for the future in Phoenix's dining scene!

A Family Legacy Rooted in Mexican Tradition

Food is woven into the fabric of Miguel's family, passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, Miguel learned to cook from both of his grandmothers and his mom, and learned grilling from his dad. Miguel's dad would make him help out with the cooking at large family gatherings with over 20 relatives in attendance, but it was something he enjoyed.

Miguel's dad also owned restaurants, and he eventually wanted his own, building it from the ground up. He wanted his restaurant to showcase the cuisine from Central and Southern Mexico — and that's exactly what he created with Okay Maguey. He also uses many family recipes, including his grandmother's mole recipe and his mom's salsa verde.

"I think my great-grandmother would be proud of me," Miguel stated. (I think he's right, as he carries on his family's culinary legacy.)

What Makes Maguey Taco Bar Stand Out in Phoenix

While most Mexican restaurants focus on cuisine with roots in Northern Mexico, Okay Maguey's menu is centered on Central and Southern Mexico. While this alone does not set the restaurant apart, it's certainly unique to the area. And with family recipes used, it feels more like having a comforting home-cooked meal than dining at many other restaurants.

Food aside, the restaurant looks and feels high-end when you walk in, with glass-encased liquor bottles lining some walls and murals painted in the most vibrant colors adorning others. Miguel used a local artist to design the murals. My favorite is the mural of renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, who was born in Mexico City and is best known for her self-portraits. There is also a patio for dining al fresco, and the bar is open to the patio on one side as well.

Must-Try Dishes That Tell a Story

I asked Miguel about Okay Maguey's most popular dishes, and he replied, "That's so hard. Everything is so unique and flavorful." But he did point out the enchiladas de mole, the same poblano mole sauce from his great-grandmother's recipe, and the conchinita pibil tacos, made with Yucatan-style braised pork, as excellent options on the menu. I happen to be partial to the chicken tinga tacos, made with an original recipe from Mexico City — it's something I typically order when I come here for happy hour.

As for drinks, there is a selection of cervezas (beer) as well as red and white wine and sangria, but what many come here for (including my husband and me) are the margaritas and mezcal. If you love mezcal, try the Mezcal Pineapple or the Cantarito. The House and Cadillac margaritas are both excellent, but they only get more creative from there. The Lavender Guava, Mango, and Coconut Margaritas offer tropical flavors that feel like a day at the beach, while the Spicy Cucumber is a refreshing option. Instead of using a premade margarita mixer, Okay Maguey makes its own using fresh agave and fresh-squeezed lime juice, which makes a huge difference in the taste. No wonder these are among the best margaritas I've had in Arizona.

Why Locals Keep Coming Back

Miguel Angel Peredo is an affable person who makes his restaurant guests feel welcome. That's how I felt the first time I visited Okay Maguay over a year ago. He was the acting bartender when my husband and I came in for happy hour, and we chatted quite a bit as he made us some delicious margaritas — we just didn't realize on that first visit that he was the owner. It was a few months before we came back a second time, and Miguel, recognizing us, smiled and welcomed us back! It felt good to feel so welcome, and we just knew this place was special. It's part of the reason that my husband and I, along with other locals, keep coming back.

The other reasons? The food and cocktails, of course! From the fresh guac and chips and the veggie platter (one of my faves) to the tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and specialties, the fresh ingredients and flavors make each and every bite absolutely delightful.

The food and margaritas here transport me to a part of Mexico I've yet to visit, but want to. Until I can take a trip to Central or Southern Mexico, Okay Maguey is here to give me a taste of that region through its delectable dishes and refreshing margaritas. And if you're wondering where the name "Okay Maguey" comes from, it's a common slang term used in Mexico. Miguel explained, "It's like saying 'ready, Freddy.'" "Maguey" also refers to part of the agave plant, used in tequila and mezcal.

For location, menus, and catering inquiries, visit the Okay Maguey website. You'll also find Okay Maguey on both Instagram and Facebook. Happy hour is offered Monday through Friday, 3 p.m.-6 p.m., and Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos all day. Cinco de Mayo is Okay Maguey's most popular day, so don't miss it!

Want to plan a memorable outing or date night in Phoenix? Visit the Musical Instrument Museum, the largest museum of its kind in the world, then have dinner and cocktails at Okay Maguey, just a 14-minute drive down the street!