If you’re looking for a taste of Mexico while in Bali, La Casita Mexican Restaurant in Ubud is the place to be. With a passion for authentic Mexican flavors and a commitment to using fresh, local ingredients, La Casita prides itself on bringing the best of Mexico to the tropical paradise of Bali. Let’s dive into everything that makes La Casita so special, from its history to its menu and special events.
A Brief History of La Casita Mexican Restaurant
La Casita was founded by two friends who shared a love of Mexican cuisine. Coming from different regions of Mexico, they wanted to showcase the diverse flavors and cooking techniques of their home country to the people of Bali. In 2015, La Casita opened its doors in Ubud, and has been serving up mouthwatering dishes ever since.
The Founders’ Passion for Mexican Cuisine
The founders of La Casita grew up surrounded by the vibrant colors and flavors of Mexican cuisine. From street food to family recipes, they developed a lifelong love and appreciation for traditional Mexican dishes. This passion is evident in every dish served at La Casita.
One of the founders, Juan, grew up in Mexico City, where he was exposed to a wide variety of Mexican cuisine. His mother was an amazing cook and taught him the secrets of traditional Mexican dishes. Juan’s favorite dish is pozole, a hearty soup made with hominy, pork, and chili peppers. He has spent years perfecting his own recipe and it is one of the most popular dishes at La Casita.
The other founder, Maria, grew up in Oaxaca, a region known for its rich culinary tradition. She learned to cook from her grandmother, who taught her how to make mole, a complex sauce made with over 20 ingredients, including chili peppers, chocolate, and spices. Maria’s mole is a labor of love, taking hours to prepare, but the end result is a rich, flavorful sauce that is the perfect accompaniment to many of the dishes at La Casita.
Bringing Authentic Flavors to Ubud, Bali
When the founders of La Casita arrived in Bali, they noticed a lack of authentic Mexican cuisine. They wanted to fill that gap and introduce the people of Bali to the real tastes of Mexico. And so, La Casita was born.
At La Casita, they use only the freshest ingredients, many of which are imported from Mexico. They make their own tortillas, salsas, and guacamole from scratch, ensuring that every dish is authentic and delicious. They also offer a wide variety of tequilas and mezcals, as well as traditional Mexican cocktails like margaritas and palomas.
La Casita has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and has received numerous accolades for its authentic cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, enchiladas, or a refreshing margarita, La Casita is the place to be.
The Ambiance and Decor of La Casita
When you step into La Casita, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a traditional Mexican cantina. The vibrant colors and traditional decor create a warm and inviting atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.
As you take a closer look at the decor, you’ll notice that every detail has been thoughtfully curated to create an authentic Mexican experience. The walls are adorned with colorful paintings and photographs of Mexican landscapes, adding to the lively and energetic atmosphere.
A Colorful and Vibrant Atmosphere
The interior of La Casita is decorated with bright colors, traditional Mexican textiles, and handmade pottery. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, perfect for a fun night out with friends or a romantic evening with your significant other.
The tables and chairs are made of rustic wood and wrought iron, adding to the traditional feel of the restaurant. The lighting is warm and inviting, casting a soft glow over the entire space.
Traditional Mexican Art and Design Elements
From the colorful papel picado hanging from the ceiling to the traditional Mexican tiles on the floor, every aspect of the decor at La Casita is carefully chosen to create an authentic Mexican feel. The owners have also incorporated hand-painted murals and other unique elements to further enhance the ambiance.
The bar area is particularly impressive, with shelves lined with tequila bottles and other Mexican spirits. The bartenders are skilled at crafting delicious margaritas and other cocktails, and the lively music adds to the festive atmosphere.
Overall, La Casita is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic Mexican dining experience. The ambiance and decor are second to none, and the food and drinks are equally impressive.
The Mouthwatering Menu at La Casita
The menu at La Casita is a true reflection of traditional Mexican cuisine. From tacos to tamales, every dish is packed with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The restaurant’s vibrant and colorful decor will transport you to the streets of Mexico, while the aroma of sizzling meats and spices will make your mouth water in anticipation.
Signature Dishes and Must-Try Items
Start off with La Casita’s famous guacamole, made fresh daily using locally sourced avocados. The creamy texture and zesty flavor of the guacamole make it the perfect appetizer to share with friends or family. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the queso fundido, a melted cheese dip served with warm tortillas.
For mains, try the enchiladas suizas, filled with chicken and topped with a creamy tomatillo sauce. The tender chicken and tangy sauce make for a delicious combination that will leave you wanting more. The tacos al pastor are also a must-try, made with marinated pork and served with pineapple salsa. The sweetness of the pineapple perfectly complements the savory pork, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth. And don’t miss out on the churros for dessert! These crispy fried dough pastries are dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a rich chocolate dipping sauce.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
La Casita offers plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans, including the vegetarian fajitas and the vegan tacos made with portobello mushrooms. The fajitas are served sizzling hot with a colorful array of vegetables, making for a satisfying and healthy meal. The vegan tacos are bursting with flavor, thanks to the earthy taste of the mushrooms and the spicy salsa that accompanies them. The menu is clearly marked with vegan and vegetarian options, making it easy to find something for every dietary preference.
Traditional Mexican Drinks and Beverages
No Mexican meal is complete without a margarita, and La Casita’s margaritas are some of the best in Ubud. Made with fresh lime juice and top-shelf tequila, these margaritas are not to be missed. Other traditional Mexican drinks on the menu include micheladas, a refreshing beer cocktail made with lime juice and spices, and palomas, a grapefruit-flavored tequila cocktail. If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, try the horchata, a sweet and creamy rice milk drink flavored with cinnamon and vanilla.
The Importance of Fresh Ingredients and Traditional Cooking Techniques
At La Casita, every dish is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The owners believe that using fresh ingredients is key to creating the authentic flavors of Mexico. They also use traditional cooking techniques, such as the use of a comal to make handmade tortillas.
Using fresh ingredients is not only important for taste, but also for health benefits. Fresh produce and meats contain more nutrients than their processed counterparts. By using locally sourced ingredients, La Casita is able to support the local community and reduce their carbon footprint by reducing transportation costs.
Sourcing Local Produce and Meats
La Casita works closely with local farmers and butchers to source the freshest ingredients possible. This not only supports the local community, but also ensures that the ingredients are at their peak freshness. By building relationships with local suppliers, La Casita is able to maintain a consistent level of quality in their dishes.
Furthermore, by sourcing locally, La Casita is able to reduce their environmental impact by reducing the distance that the ingredients need to travel. This means that the food has a lower carbon footprint and is more sustainable.
Handmade Tortillas and Salsas
One of the standout features of La Casita’s menu is the handmade tortillas. Made fresh daily using a traditional comal, these tortillas are the perfect vehicle for any filling. The process of making tortillas by hand is a labor of love, and the result is a product that is far superior to store-bought tortillas.
La Casita’s salsas are also made in-house using fresh ingredients. Salsas are an essential part of Mexican cuisine, and La Casita’s salsas are no exception. The chefs take great care to balance the flavors of the salsas, using ingredients such as fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Overall, La Casita’s commitment to using fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques sets them apart from other Mexican restaurants. By supporting the local community and reducing their environmental impact, La Casita is not only serving delicious food, but also making a positive impact on the world.
Special Events and Theme Nights at La Casita
La Casita is more than just a restaurant – it’s a celebration of Mexican culture. The owners host special events and theme nights throughout the year, including:
Live Music and Entertainment
If you love live music, you’ll want to check out La Casita’s salsa nights. With live music and dancing, these nights are a fun and lively way to experience Mexican culture.
Celebrating Mexican Holidays and Festivals
From Day of the Dead to Cinco de Mayo, La Casita celebrates all of the major Mexican holidays and festivals. Expect special menus, decorations, and entertainment during these events.
Experience Authentic Mexican Cuisine at La Casita Mexican Restaurant in Ubud, Bali
As you can see, La Casita Mexican Restaurant is more than just a place to eat – it’s an experience. With its authentic flavors, vibrant atmosphere, and commitment to using fresh ingredients, La Casita is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of Mexico while in Bali.
