Maria Maria: Carlos Santana's New Mission Valley Fiesta

The moment I laid eyes on a pair of Carlos Santana stiletto heels, I knew this Spanish heart throb and I were eternally connected. Santana brings the soul of his songs into his edgy fashion design, making sweet, sweet rhythm for style-seeking soles. And now the modern Renaissance man is at it again, bringing local foodies a decadent music inspired menu at his new San Diego restaurant in Mission Valley, Maria Maria. 

Don’t expect to find this Grammy winning artist behind the grill at your next fiesta. Maria Maria is a creative collaboration between the legendary musician Carlos Santana and Chef Roberto Santibañez. Named for Santana’s hit song “Maria Maria,” the restaurant is inspired by the passion and spirit of Santa’s timeless music. From the décor to the ambiance and culinary appeal, every element of the restaurant radiates with the very same warmth you felt upon first hearing Santana's classic “Maria Maria” on the radio. 

Chef Roberto Santibañez’s menu is a regional exploration of Mexican dishes presented with a distinctive modern flair. Nuevo Mexican cuisine favorites range from slow braised duck tacos covered with a roasted tomato habanero cream sauce; to grilled salmon filet served with a sauce that’s both sweet and hot; and savory ancho chiles stuffed with roasted zucchini, red onions, potatoes and wild mushrooms served over melted cheese and a roasted  tomato chipotle sauce. The menu is full of fork-tender meats prepared with chiles, garlic, and spices used as marinades. Go the distance with a delicious mahogany-hued guajilo-pineapple-cinnamon sauce.

The festive dining experience at Maria Maria offers rich flavor in cuisine, music, and visual art. Carlos Santa worked personally with a variety of celebrated artists to create the perfect pieces to set the tone. Some of the chosen artists include Calixto Robles, Irene Carranza, Michael V. Rios, Rudy Gutierrez, Sal Garcia – many of whom have designed Carlos Santana’s CD covers and graphics over the decades. 

The fast-growing Maria Maria chain boasts five locations on the West Coast, including Danville and Walnut Creek, California; Tempe, Arizona; Austin, Texas; and the newest member of the family on Frazee Road in Mission Valley, San Diego. For more details and reservations please visit Maria Maria.

This "Maria Maria" music video is sure to spark an appetite for nuevo Mexican cuisine...

Insider Tip : Maria Maria also helps to serve Carlos Santana’s non-profit organization, The Milagro Foundation, which supports children in the areas of health, education and the arts. Learn more at milagrofoundation.org.

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