Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant to Open at Former Taphouse Kitchen Site on Shea Boulevard
Notable local eatery, Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant, has announced the opening of its newest restaurant at 3131 E. Shea Blvd., Phoenix, just west of 32nd St., this month. The restaurant will take over the location previously occupied by Taphouse Kitchen.

The Salazar family, pillars of the Phoenix culinary scene, initiated their venture with Manuel’s Mexican Food back in 1964 at 32nd Street and Indian School Road. Founded by Manuel and Alice Salazar, the restaurant’s ethos has always been rooted in delivering a welcoming ambiance coupled with the finest Mexican delicacies.

Manuel’s has been honored as a Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorite since 2017, reflecting their consistent quality and community rapport. As the Salazar family grew, so did their business footprint. Today, with the addition of the new venue on Shea Blvd., the chain boasts eight locations throughout the Valley. While each restaurant under the Manuel’s umbrella is individually owned and managed, the overarching leadership and shared values remain a collective effort of the Salazar family.

For more information, visit manuelsaz.fiestaconcepts.com.
Historic Paradise Valley Church Sold
Ascension Lutheran Church, designed by William Wesley (Wes) Peters, a protégé of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, was sold due to steep maintenance costs. As the church approached its 60th anniversary, it was confronted with about $2 million in repair bills.

Faced with declining congregational numbers and the pandemic’s challenges, church leaders made the difficult decision to sell. On July 24, CHM Holdings acquired the nearly 5-acre property for $11 million. This comes after the church had previously offloaded an acre of their land, a transaction in which broker Frank DiMaggio played a role.

In a nod to community concerns and attachments, CHM Holdings has allowed the congregation to use the premises for another year while they scout for a new location. Despite the sale, the church remains committed to its community, considering options like merging with another church or sharing facilities.

One significant aspect of the church’s current location is its “Homeless Jesus” art installation and a columbarium, both of which church officials wish to relocate.

However, potential redevelopment by CHM Holdings will face regulatory scrutiny. Before any transformation begins, especially into single-family homes, the buyer must navigate a series of approvals from Paradise Valley, including rezoning and preliminary plat considerations. As of now, no applications have been filed for the site.

“Sheaborhood” Food Truck Night Returns to Oxford Square
Mark your calendars for a delicious evening in the Sheaborhood. On Thursday, Sept. 7, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Oxford Square, 10880 N. 32nd St., will be bustling with the tantalizing aromas of diverse cuisines. Truck Night, is making it much-anticipated return and is now a monthly staple, happening every first Thursday of the month.

Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to come out and enjoy a mix of culinary delights, from Lonestar Kitchen’s sumptuous burgers to the refreshing acai bowls of Berry Berry Best Acai. Vegetarian-friendly options are aplenty, with Mr. Momo offering top-notch Nepal-style dumplings and Sala Thai teasing attendees with exclusive off-the-menu treats.

Not to be missed is l’Impasto Food Truck, bringing the authentic flavors of Italy with a range of pizzas and pastas, while Estero Beach Tacos is set to satisfy seafood cravings with its famed fish and shrimp tacos.

But it’s not just about food. The evening provides an excellent opportunity to support local businesses, many of which will extend their hours for evening shopping. Among them is Oxford Square’s latest addition, Just Roughin It, which promises to be a hotspot for attendees.

While a few tables will be set up for the event, attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and settle in for a delightful evening of food, shopping, and community bonding.

For more information, visit sheacheese.com/events-3/september-food-trucks-in-the-sheaborhood