Construction Begins on New Rio Mirage Café in Goodyear

Construction has officially begun on the third Rio Mirage Café location, bringing the popular West Valley Mexican restaurant deeper into the rapidly growing Estrella community in Goodyear.

A ceremonial groundbreaking was held at the southeast corner of Estrella Parkway and Elliot Road, where the 4.7-acre site will soon transform into the restaurant’s largest and most scenic destination. Owners Rachel and Alex Gomez purchased the land for $2.3 million nearly two years ago as part of a long-term expansion plan.

“We’re proud to keep growing right here in the West Valley — the place we call home — and keep doing what we love: serving great food, creating a welcoming space and giving everyone one more place to relax, celebrate and enjoy life’s good moments,” the couple said in a press release Monday.

A Major Addition to Estrella

When complete, the 9,000-square-foot, two-story restaurant will feature:

• ✅ Rooftop private dining overlooking Estrella’s north lake
• ✅ Spacious outdoor patios with views of the Estrella Mountains
• ✅ A large bar designed as a community gathering spot
• ✅ Spanish-style architecture with upscale finishes

The new location is notable for being the first newly built sit-down restaurant in the master-planned Estrella community, which continues to see strong residential growth and rising demand for dining and entertainment options.

“Rio Mirage Café is a cornerstone of our vision for a welcoming, lively and connected community,” said Jeff Zimmerman, vice president of development for the Estrella Development Company. “We’re proud to partner with a beloved West Valley institution whose values align perfectly with ours.”

Local Partners Leading the Build

• Architect: O’Brien Luxury Home Designs, Phoenix
• General Contractor: DesertBuild, Surprise

Work is gearing up with construction fencing, utility preparations and initial grading now underway. The project will move quickly, aiming to attract both residents and visitors with lakefront views rarely offered in the West Valley dining scene.

About the Restaurant

Rio Mirage Café first opened in 1999 and has locations in El Mirage and Surprise. The brand built its following on Sonoran-style classics including:

• Burritos
• Chimichangas
• Rolled quesadillas
• Enchiladas
• Fajitas

The Gomezes say the Estrella location will offer the same beloved menu, while also introducing exclusive dishes and elevated dining experiences unique to the destination.

What’s Next

The restaurant aims to open its doors following construction completion, anticipated for late 2026 depending on permitting and build timelines. As Goodyear continues to welcome new commercial development, the addition of Rio Mirage Café marks a milestone for Estrella’s growing retail and culinary scene.

Originally reported by KTAR News.