Transport yourself to Mexico City without ever stepping on a plane, as Casa Carmen’s newest Flatiron location serves up traditional Mexican dishes with a modern flair. “The overall experience that we aim to deliver is what makes us unique. Guests can taste traditional Mexican recipes from our grandmother, Titita Ramirez Degollado (known for her El Bajío restaurants in Mexico City), while sipping a cocktail from our curated agave-forward drinks menu, surrounded by a warm and friendly atmosphere that transports you to a Mexican hacienda,” Sebastian Ramirez, founder and GM told us.
Experience the Charms of Mexico Within the Walls of Casa Carmen’s Cozy Hacienda
Casa Carmen is a delightful nod to their family’s culinary heritage. “We curated our food menu based on the most popular dishes from our sister restaurant El Bajío in Mexico City and what we estimated were going to be well received by the New York audience,” Ramirez explained. “There were some instant hits like the tacos de carnitas, ceviche verde and pollo con mole, and other dishes that have been replaced by new offerings, always keeping our roots in mind.”
The space itself is a stunning blend of traditional Mexican design with natural hues and high ceilings that evoke a sense of calm and warmth. “Every single aspect of the restaurant is influenced by our past experience – the restaurant and kitchen layout, the point-of-sale system, the quality of our suppliers, and tableware just to name a few,” Ramirez said of the space. “What was challenging was that no matter how much experience we previously had in Mexico City, we were new to New York; the way restaurants operate here is completely different. In a way, we had to start from scratch.”
With the restaurant’s commitment to using heritage ingredients and maintaining authentic dining customs, Casa Carmen is the perfect spot for an elevated dining experience. “We will be working on different experiences throughout the year. At our new Flatiron location, we only open for dinner, but very soon, we will open for lunch and brunch,” Ramirez hinted. “Our Mexican brunch menu is delicious—you can start your morning with pan dulce and a café de olla, then continue with some chilaquiles verdes with pollo or a couple of sunny side-up eggs, and finish with churros. We are also partnering with our beverage suppliers to organize tasting dinners paired with Mexican wines and spirits. We also love to host large party reservations; our private dinner room in Flatiron is perfect for any occasion.”
