The Estrella community is savoring a new chapter in local dining with the groundbreaking of the third Rio Mirage Café, a popular West Valley institution known for its Sonoran-style cuisine and warm, family-centered hospitality.
Located at 10047 S. Estrella Parkway, the new restaurant will be the first sit-down dining experience built from the ground up at Estrella’s gateway. The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of local dignitaries, community leaders, Estrella representatives, and the Gomez family, who have been serving authentic recipes since 1999.
Stephanie Mendoza, Vice President of Operations and daughter of founders Alex and Rachel Gomez, shared heartfelt reflections on the journey that led to this moment.
“This new restaurant isn’t just another location; it’s something that came to life because of the incredible people who’ve supported us through the years,” Mendoza said. “We’re thrilled to be part of this vibrant community. The West Valley is home to Rio Mirage Café, and we look forward to adding our family’s history to Estrella’s future.”
The Estrella location will be the largest yet, spanning 9,000 square feet and offering panoramic views of North Lake and the Estrella Mountains. Designed to be a true destination, the restaurant will feature a two-story layout with private dining upstairs and outdoor seating that embraces the stunning natural surroundings.
The architecture, led by O’Brien Luxury Designs, blends Spanish Mission and Hacienda styles, with stonework, arches, Spanish tiles, and ornate iron details that reflect the Gomez family’s commitment to authenticity and beauty. The centerpiece of the restaurant is a grand bar surrounded by intimate seating areas, creating a welcoming space for both residents and visitors.
Jeff Zimmerman, Vice President of Development for Estrella Development Company, emphasized the importance of this milestone:
“Rio Mirage Café is a cornerstone of our vision for a welcoming, lively, and connected community. It’s the first new build and sit-down restaurant at Estrella’s gateway, and we’re proud to partner with a beloved West Valley institution whose values align perfectly with ours.”
City of Goodyear Mayor Joe Pizzillo also celebrated the groundbreaking.
“We’re excited that the Gomez family is bringing this restaurant to Estrella. Your success is our success. We wish you much success here,” Mayor Pizzillo said.
As Alex and Rachel Gomez shared:
“This opening is our way of saying thank you for believing in us, for showing up, and for letting us be part of your lives. We’re proud to keep growing right here in the West Valley – the place we call home.”
