Walking around Centro Histórico in Mexico City is kind of like traveling in a time capsule where you stumble on stunning historic buildings you didn’t notice two seconds before. That’s the case of the Casino Español, a breathtaking building, of more than 100 years old that hosts one of the best Spanish restaurants in all Mexico.
Hear me out, yes, you are in the Aztec Capital, yes you should be eating some traditional Mexican food but truth is, Spanish influence is surrounding you and having a beautiful paella is a perfectly sound decision any given day. Furthermore, this place highlights the generations of Spaniards that have made Mexico their home so, what’s not to love?
The building
Dated from 1885, the building is representative of the Eclectic style of its time. A compilation of lots of different architectures, Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance and Arabic. The building in itself deserves a visit, so if you have a chance come in whenever you can. Enter the building, at ground floor they normally have different exhibits highlighting some of the very active relationship between Mexico and Spain. Head to your left and take the beautiful white marble staircase that will direct you to the ballroom. Remember, you are in Mexico City not in Versailles, although it’s hard to remember it when you see the paintings, the ceiling and the candelabra. Up in the second floor the restaurant awaits, don't forget to look up, the ceiling has a beautiful stained glass depicting the Spanish coat of arms.
The food
Forget about Paella, Spanish food has a lot of complexity and options that you can taste here. I’m a stickler for tradition so I had to start with some Jamon Serrano Croquetas, which were perfect, crispy on the outside and soft and savoury in the inside. Top secret, there is a secret menu at the restaurant that is only for savants, I asked for the Callos a la Madrileña, a slow cooked stew made of tripe, chorizo, morcilla and all things good. Alan went for a Chuleton that was a bit too greasy for us, and in retrospect should have asked for something more traditional like the Pulpo a la Gallega (grilled octopus), Zarzuela de Mariscos (seafood stew) or some Cochinillo (suckling pig). Next time we will def be ordering a Solomillo (filet) Cabrales, the Spanish version of Roquefort cheese.
The wine list was fabulous, with a price range not easily found in the city, we went for a tempranillo that was very reasonable and so light we quickly drank entirely (ooops!) and to finish on a high note we had to have some nice Spanish coffee that tends to be stronger than Mexican.
We are trying to be good but when the waiter offered Arrroz Con Leche as dessert I could not say no, so we ended up with some Flan (delish) and my beloved arroz con leche that made my day and brought me back to my grandma’s home.
Trust me, a hike to this place is absolutely recommended!
Authenticity: 98%
Ambience: Bring your foreign friends here after visiting the Centro Historico
Service: A solid 85%
Taste: Like grandma's!
Day to go: Weekends
Take me there! http://casinoespanolmexico.com/
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