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CLEMMONS — After more than 35 years of serving flavorful Mexican-inspired food, made from scratch, across North Carolina, Mi Pueblo Mexican Grill is entering a new chapter. Beginning July 1, six Mi Pueblo locations will begin transitioning to a new restaurant concept: Ma’Luz Mexican Grill.

According to a release from the company, it will aim to stay rooted in the same values of culture, food and heartfelt hospitality as Mi Pueblo. Ma’Luz instead is a chosen evolution — one that honors the restaurants’ past while looking forward with fresh energy.

“My parents founded Mi Pueblo in Winston-Salem in 1989,” Ma’Luz CEO Diego Ruiz is quoted as saying in the release. “On July 1, several of our locations will begin transitioning to Ma’Luz — a concept inspired by my mother, Maria de la Luz. The name Ma’Luz is a tribute to her and to everything she represents in our lives and in this business.”

The transition will occur gradually during six months beginning July 1, with updates to signage, menus and materials completed by Jan. 1, 2026. Ruiz, who will lead the new Ma’Luz concept alongside his brother Alexander, emphasized in the release that Ma’Luz represents both a continuation and a reinvention.

“We created Ma’Luz to elevate and energize what we already do best — serving fresh, flavorful food promptly and with heartfelt hospitality — while giving ourselves the freedom to push creative boundaries,” said Diego Ruiz. “Guests will continue to enjoy their favorite dishes, but now with expanded offerings like our increasingly popular bowl-based entrées and seasonal chef-curated items.”

Ma’Luz will also honor the spirit of its namesake.

“My mom has always been strong, capable, intelligent and warm. She has a presence that commands respect, but she’s also quick-witted and funny,” Ruiz said. “I want Ma’Luz to reflect those qualities — to deliver excellence, but without taking ourselves too seriously. We want to create a place where guests feel cared for, energized and inspired.”

Locations transitioning to Ma’Luz include:

• University City in Charlotte
• Lewisville-Clemmons Road in Clemmons
• Northpoint Avenue and Tinsley Drive in High Point
• South Main Street in King
• Stratford Road in Winston-Salem

Mi Pueblo locations that will remain unchanged:

• Sardis Road in Charlotte
• Bayfield Parkway in Concord/Kannapolis
• Northcross Lane in Statesville
• Reynolda Road in Winston-Salem

Guests can continue to order favorites like ACP, golden chicken flautas and signature fajitas fro the menu at both Ma’Luz and Mi Pueblo locations. Most of the friendly team members guests know and love also will continue serving under the new brand, according to the release.

“We invite our loyal and new guests to join us on this journey,” said Maria Ruiz. “Ma’Luz isn’t just a rebrand — it’s a platform for creativity, hospitality and flavor. We’re building something fresh that lets us innovate boldly while staying true to the values that built this business. We can’t wait to share it with you.”