Maribel
Heart of Hospitality
Leads our team with a smile and details that matter. She's the reason big gatherings feel effortless.
El Colibrí began as a promise to our mother — to keep her spirit alive through food, color, and warm hospitality. We named it El Colibrí, the hummingbird, because it was her favorite. In our culture, the hummingbird is a messenger of memory and joy — that's what we want every visit to feel like.
We're three siblings — Esteban, Maribel, and Román — who have worked in restaurants since we were sixteen. Before El Colibrí, Esteban worked at this very location for many years, back when it was Gordon's. In 2020, in the middle of the pandemic, we took a leap of faith and purchased the restaurant, and we've poured ourselves into it ever since.
The founders
The siblings who started it
Three siblings, one family kitchen, and a Salinas neighborhood we cook for.
Esteban
The Chef
Brings Oaxacan inspiration to California's fields — bold moles, bright salsas, and fire-kissed meats.
Román
Support
Knows this dining room by heart. He believes the best table is the one where you're greeted by name.
What we believe
Our values
Community
We're committed to keeping Oldtown Salinas vibrant — hosting celebrations, partnering with local growers, and supporting cultural events.
Heritage
We cook with memory: Oaxacan techniques, California ingredients, and our mother's hummingbird watching over us.
Hospitality
We welcome you like family — every detail is intentional, every guest remembered.
Along the way
Milestones
Blue Zones Project
Proud to support Blue Zones Project in Monterey County
We're part of a community-wide effort that helps make the healthy choice the easy choice in Salinas. On our menu, you'll find produce-forward plates, whole grains, lean proteins, and clearly labeled lighter options inspired by Blue Zones "Power 9" principles — purpose, community, and mostly-plant foods.
