I figured I’d break up my Amsterdam posts and share a casual restaurant that I really enjoy. Casa Romero is located down a little alleyway off Gloucester St. in the Back Bay. As much as I love this part of Boston, the restaurant scene can be a bit pretentious (actually, that’s most of Boston!) Casa Romero is a lovely, down-to-earth departure from that. It was founded in 1972 by Leo Flores, who was born in San Diego but raised mostly in Mexico. I enjoyed WGBH’s Neighborhood Kitchens episode about Leo and his restaurant. He has a unique background as a chef, having served in diplomatic service, as a Harvard fellow, and college Spanish professor. His dedication to education extends to his restaurant, as Casa has a section of their website welcoming school field trips.
We visited on a Tuesday around 7 pm and were seated right away without reservations. The host was very accommodating when we asked to move to a table with a little more room. Our server was kind and attentive too, and our drinks and food arrived in a timely manner. I’d say Casa is a little less expensive that most restaurants in this area, so it’s a great option if you’re watching your wallet. I don’t usually get Patron margaritas, but for a reasonable $12.75, I decided to treat myself and wasn’t disappointed! The complimentary salsa was amazing, probably the best salsa I’ve ever had. For my meal, I ordered the steak fajitas, which were delicious and well-presented. Whenever I order fajitas, I feel like I’m going to knock one of the plates over and burn myself. At Casa, they put the tortillas under the dish that held the steak, which warmed them and saved room! Perfect idea.
Casa is decorated with bright and beautiful traditional Mexican tiling. The menu cover is also eye-catching, with a print of a folk painting of colorful birds. As an added bonus, Casa has an adorable little patio for the warm months. When we visited it was pretty cold and cloudy, but now I have the perfect excuse to go back.
What’s your favorite restaurant when you want to relax and enjoy an authentic and delicious meal? Please let me know, I’d love to check it out!