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New Staten Island restaurant offers Mexican dining experience with a 13-course meal

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, September 5th 2025 at 14:47 GMT by Staten Island Advance
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A 13‑Course Culinary Journey: Staten Island’s New Mexican Dining Destination

Staten Island’s food scene has just received a fresh, spicy twist. On a quiet Friday evening, a brand‑new restaurant opened its doors to a line of eager diners who were ready to embark on an immersive Mexican culinary adventure. The establishment, which has been christened “Cielo Mexicano”, offers a meticulously crafted 13‑course tasting menu that promises to take guests on a gastronomic tour of Mexico’s most iconic regions. While the name may hint at a lofty ambition, the reality is a beautifully designed space, a thoughtfully assembled menu, and a palpable sense of reverence for Mexican culinary traditions.

A Dining Concept That Goes Beyond the Plate

The restaurant’s concept is simple yet ambitious: provide a curated, multi‑course experience that showcases the diversity of Mexican cuisine. According to the opening feature on SILive.com, the 13 courses are designed to highlight distinct culinary styles—from the smoky flavors of Oaxaca’s mole to the fresh, citrus‑infused dishes of Yucatán, and the earthy, corn‑based staples of the central highlands. Each course is paired with a complementary beverage, and guests are guided through the menu by a sommelier with a deep knowledge of Mexican spirits and wines.

What sets Cielo Mexicano apart is its emphasis on storytelling. The menu, which is updated seasonally, is accompanied by a brief narrative that explains the dish’s regional roots, the inspiration behind its flavor profile, and a note on any local ingredients that were used. “We’re not just serving food,” the restaurant’s executive chef, Ana Morales, told reporters. “We’re telling a story about Mexico’s culinary heritage, and we want our guests to feel as if they’re traveling across the country without leaving Staten Island.”

The Menu: 13 Courses of Mexican Mastery

The tasting menu is divided into four distinct phases, each with a signature dish that serves as the anchor point. Here’s a taste of what guests can expect:

1. Canapé de Ceviche de Mariscos – A refreshing, briny start featuring shrimp, scallops, and a bright lime‑citrus dressing.
2. Amo de Torta de Cochinita Pibil – A bite‑size version of the slow‑roasted pork staple from Yucatán, served with pickled onion and a hint of habanero.
3. Guisado de Mole Negro de Oaxaca – A complex mole that combines dried chilies, chocolate, and toasted spices, finished with a drizzle of sesame oil.
4. Tacos de Pescado Veracruzano – Lightly fried fish tacos topped with a tangy avocado salsa.
5. Enchiladas de Flor de Calabaza – Tender pumpkin leaf enchiladas smothered in a rich tomatillo‑based sauce.
6. Quesadilla de Oaxaca – A melt‑in‑your‑mouth cheese filled quesadilla, served with a side of fresh pico de gallo.
7. Café de Oaxaqueño – A coffee‑infused dessert that balances sweet cacao with a subtle hint of chili.
8. Elote Gourmet – Grilled corn on the cob, slathered with a creamy, spicy mayo and sprinkled with cotija cheese.
9. Tamal de Bomba – A bite‑size tamale, crafted with a delicate masa and filled with a fragrant mix of pork and spices.
10. Ceviche de Langostinos – A refreshing take on the classic, featuring fresh shrimp and a citrus‑citrus glaze.
11. A la Barbacoa – Slow‑roasted lamb with a smoky chipotle glaze, served with a side of warm masa.
12. Postre de Torta de Chocolate – A chocolate cake that is as decadent as it is light, finished with a hint of Mexican vanilla.
13. Miel de Agave – A sweet, floral finish that ties the meal together, accompanied by a small cup of Mexican mezcal.

The restaurant’s menu is a testament to the depth and breadth of Mexican culinary traditions. Each dish is crafted from high‑quality, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, and the restaurant partners with local farms for produce such as heirloom tomatoes, fresh corn, and citrus.

The Atmosphere: A Mexican Home in the Heart of Staten Island

When you step inside Cielo Mexicano, you’re greeted by an interior that feels more like a Mexican home than a high‑end tasting room. Low‑to‑high lighting creates an intimate environment, while hand‑painted murals of Mexican landscapes and folklore line the walls. The table design is understated, with polished wood and minimal décor to keep the focus on the food. A small live band plays traditional Mexican folk music during the course of the meal, adding an extra layer of sensory immersion.

The restaurant’s bar area showcases a curated selection of Mexican spirits, including tequila, mezcal, and pulque. For those who want to extend their experience beyond the meal, the bar serves a range of classic Mexican cocktails such as margaritas, palomas, and a special house‑made Cerveza de Jerez.

Pricing, Reservations, and Availability

A tasting menu of this caliber comes at a price point that reflects its depth and artistry. Cielo Mexicano offers the 13‑course tasting for $145 per person, not including tax, tip, or beverages. Guests can opt for a separate drink pairing, which adds $50 to the bill. The restaurant accepts reservations exclusively through its website, and they are highly recommended. “We’re a private, by‑reservation restaurant,” Chef Morales clarified. “We want to ensure that every guest has an intimate, personalized experience.”

Where to Find More Information

To learn more about the restaurant, its menu, and reservation policies, you can visit Cielo Mexicano’s official website. The website features a detailed menu, chef biographies, and a press section that includes the full SILive.com article. For those interested in a behind‑the‑scenes look, the restaurant’s Instagram feed provides daily posts of the kitchen’s creative process, close‑up shots of dishes, and behind‑the‑scenes footage of the bar.

The Verdict: A Must‑Try for Food Enthusiasts

In a city that’s constantly evolving, Cielo Mexicano offers a standout dining experience that blends culinary tradition, local sourcing, and an atmospheric setting. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore the flavors of Mexico, a couple seeking a unique date night, or a cultural enthusiast eager to immerse yourself in a different culinary narrative, the restaurant’s 13‑course tasting menu delivers on every front.

The new Mexican dining destination on Staten Island is poised to become a cultural landmark. It’s not merely about eating; it’s about traveling, learning, and celebrating a rich culinary heritage that’s now just a short walk away. If you’re looking for an unforgettable night out, be sure to reserve a seat at Cielo Mexicano—your taste buds (and your calendar) will thank you.