Each year, the event spotlights five chefs who share a passion for honoring Mexican heritage through food. For 2025, acclaimed Michelin-starred Chef Mario Hernandez Alonso of El Califa de León in Mexico City will headline the experience. Joining him are top Phoenix Sabores—local Valley chefs celebrating the richness of Mexican culinary tradition. Together, they’ll serve up unforgettable flavors in support of a meaningful cause.
2024 James Beard Award - Best Chef: Southwest.
Chef Rene Andrade is the acclaimed chef and co-owner of Bacanora, a celebrated Phoenix restaurant specializing in wood-fired Sonoran cuisine. Born in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, Andrade's culinary journey has been deeply influenced by his heritage and family traditions. In 2024, he was honored
2024 James Beard Award - Best Chef: Southwest.
Chef Rene Andrade is the acclaimed chef and co-owner of Bacanora, a celebrated Phoenix restaurant specializing in wood-fired Sonoran cuisine. Born in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, Andrade's culinary journey has been deeply influenced by his heritage and family traditions. In 2024, he was honored with the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest, recognizing his dedication to authentic flavors and culinary excellence. Prior to establishing Bacanora, Andrade refined his skills at esteemed establishments such as Elements, The House Brasserie, and Ghost Ranch. Beyond Bacanora, he has expanded his culinary ventures with the opening of Huarachis Taqueria in Phoenix, further showcasing his commitment to bringing Sonoran flavors to the local dining scene
Chef Ivan Gonzalez is the executive chef of Chico Malo, a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in downtown Phoenix's CityScape, which opened in 2017. Gonzalez showcases a modern take on Latin cuisine, blending traditional flavors with innovative techniques. Gonzalez's commitment to quality ingredients and bold flavors has positioned Chic
Chef Ivan Gonzalez is the executive chef of Chico Malo, a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in downtown Phoenix's CityScape, which opened in 2017. Gonzalez showcases a modern take on Latin cuisine, blending traditional flavors with innovative techniques. Gonzalez's commitment to quality ingredients and bold flavors has positioned Chico Malo as a staple in Phoenix's dining scene. With over 13 years of culinary experience, he is also executive chef at Filthy Animal, Wren & Wolf, and behind speakeasys Carry-On and Drop Dead Gorgeous
Chef Matt Carter is one of Phoenix’s most celebrated chefs, best known for The Mission, his acclaimed modern Latin restaurant with locations in Old Town Scottsdale and downtown Phoenix. Drawing on flavors from Spain, Mexico, and Central and South America, The Mission reflects Carter’s passion for bold, refined cuisine. A graduate of the
Chef Matt Carter is one of Phoenix’s most celebrated chefs, best known for The Mission, his acclaimed modern Latin restaurant with locations in Old Town Scottsdale and downtown Phoenix. Drawing on flavors from Spain, Mexico, and Central and South America, The Mission reflects Carter’s passion for bold, refined cuisine. A graduate of the Scottsdale Culinary Institute, Carter trained in France and at the French Laundry before opening several top Valley restaurants, including Zinc Bistro and Fat Ox. His innovative approach and dedication to Arizona’s dining scene earned him the 2024 Food Pioneer Award from the Arizona Restaurant Association.
Chef Joey Maggiore is the executive chef and entrepreneur behind The Mexicano, a vibrant Mexican restaurant in Phoenix known for its innovative dishes and lively atmosphere. Opened in December 2021, The Mexicano offers unique culinary experiences, such as 3-foot-long masa quesadillas and margaritas served in piñatas. Maggiore, who began
Chef Joey Maggiore is the executive chef and entrepreneur behind The Mexicano, a vibrant Mexican restaurant in Phoenix known for its innovative dishes and lively atmosphere. Opened in December 2021, The Mexicano offers unique culinary experiences, such as 3-foot-long masa quesadillas and margaritas served in piñatas. Maggiore, who began his culinary journey under his father, the late Tomaso Maggiore, has developed multiple successful restaurant concepts, including Hash Kitchen and The Sicilian Butcher. His commitment to creating dynamic dining environments has solidified his reputation as a leading figure in Phoenix's culinary scene.
The World-Re-known Taco Stand from Mexico City will be serving up its Michelin-Star Tacos on Friday at the 1st Annual Cinco de Sabor on High Street in Phoenix.
Read more: El Califa de Leon | Guide Report
Mario Hernández Alonso, current owner and son of the original founders, said "The secret is the simplicity of our taco. It has only a fresh hand-made corn tortilla, red or green sauce, and that's it. That, and the quality of the meat.."My father said, 'Do you want me to tell you the secret of the meat?'" "'There is no secret, only love and effort'."
The partnership between GrinGO and the Arizona Chapter National Safety Council (ACNSC) underscores a shared commitment to creating a SAFE travel experience to Mexico for U.S. tourists. By leveraging GrinGO’s strategic alliance with Mexico’s Secretariat of Tourism (SECTUR), and ACNSC’s expertise in safety initiatives, the collaboration will deliver valuable digital resources to minimize travel risks and ensure a secure borderless travel experience. Cinco de Sabores will help fund this alliance's initiatives that exist under the website www.MexicoTravelSafe.com/DONATE You can read more about the partnership here: GrinGO and National Safety Council Announce Partnership – GrinGO App
Christina Laguna is the founder of Call Christina Now, a Scottsdale-based, 24/7 accident and injury helpline dedicated to connecting individuals with trusted legal and medical professionals following incidents such as auto accidents, dog bites, and personal injuries. Launched in June 2022, the service offers free, no-obligation support, emphasizing compassionate, personalized assistance to guide clients through recovery. Christina's commitment to safety is evident through her organization's focus on educating the public about accident prevention and legal rights. The Call Christina Now blog provides practical advice on topics like bicycle safety, rideshare precautions, and post-accident steps, reflecting her dedication to community well-being. With a background in human services, Christina brings a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face after accidents. Her passion for safety and recovery is the driving force behind her mission to support and guide those in need.