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 in the frabric 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…