By Lynette Carrington The unique flavors of Mexico and the Southwest come alive at Macayo’s Mexican Grill & Cantina in a special and unique way in November. The Paradiso Tequila Dinner takes place 5:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19 and showcases a variety of quality tequilas expertly paired with some of Macayo’s own dishes and entrees

Macayo’s own Chef Luis Martinez will be orchestrating the Paradiso Tequila Dinner. Martinez started out as a busser and dishwasher at Macayo’s in 1987 and worked his way up to become an exceptional chef, manager and trainer. In fact, Martinez has served as the Training Kitchen Manager for the past 12 years, training all new managers!

The tequila pairing dinner and format:

Cocktail Hour (5:30 p.m.)

• Fresh chips and Macayo’s own homemade, fire-roasted salsa
• Paired with Macayo’s Mexican Fresca featuring El Tesoro Premium Tequila

Plato Pequeno

• Green Chile Pork Stew
• Paired with El Tesoro Platinum Tequila

Chef Inspired

• Mango Salmon
• Paired with Paradiso Extra Anejo

• Taco Flan
• Paired with El Tesoro Anejo

Family-owned and operated, Macayo’s Mexican Kitchen has been serving fresh, homemade Mexican cuisine since 1946! Still used today, almost 70 years later, are the signature recipes created by original owners Woody and Victoria Johnson. These two were committed to quality ingredients served with a warm and friendly touch.

Woody and Victoria Johnson began Macayo’s in 1946, opening their first restaurant on Central Avenue in Phoenix, Arizona. That day they established the standards on food quality, freshness and guest experience that continue today. You will taste the tradition at every table, in every dish and every flavorful ingredient! Every family has their secrets, the Johnson’s just happen to be recipes!

Macayo’s Mexican Grill & Cantina is located at 11107 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale. To make reservations for the Paradiso Tequila Dinner, call (480) 596-1181. Visit Macayo’s online at www.macayo.com.