Bistro Casa Azul

- 343 Pleasant Ave, New York, NY 10035

Nestled on Pleasant Ave, Bistro Casa Azul is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary destination that brings the rich, authentic flavors of Mexico to the heart of East Harlem. We are a community-oriented, family-run business with a deep passion for food, dedicated to delighting our guests with exquisite, elevated Mexican cuisine. As an Indigenous-owned, Latino-owned, and women-owned establishment, we are proud to share our heritage and our family’s recipes, passed down through generations. Our approach to Mexican cooking is one of passion and artistry, where every ingredient is carefully selected to compose a perfect piece of a "nueva gran cocina Mexicana." We are a hidden gem, a place where food meets passion and tradition is honored with a unique, modern twist.

Stepping into Bistro Casa Azul feels like a welcoming escape from the city’s hustle. The atmosphere is a blend of casual, cozy, trendy, and upscale, making it versatile enough for a solo dinner, a romantic date night, or a lively family gathering. Our dedication to a sophisticated and warm ambiance is evident in every detail. As one customer beautifully described, the atmosphere is "super cute and quite upscale," with a "beautiful backyard" that's ideal for entertaining larger parties. The owners, Lou and Maria, are praised for their warmth and for truly pouring their hearts into the food and the whole dining experience. The friendly staff and outstanding service make everyone feel like family, ensuring a memorable occasion.

Our menu is a showcase of gourmet, healthy Mexican cooking. Chef Maria does a fantastic job with every meal, from delicately seasoned salads to expertly made desserts. Our food is described as "gourmet healthy Mexican cooking at its finest!" We use the freshest, most natural, and locally sourced ingredients to create our signature dishes. The reviews speak volumes about the quality and authenticity of our food, with many customers calling it "amazing authentic food" and a "gem in East Harlem." From the black beans that are "the best I've had outside of Mexico" to our "delicious and impossibly fresh salmon," every dish is crafted to impress.

Bistro Casa Azul is conveniently situated at 343 Pleasant Ave, New York, NY 10035, USA, in the vibrant neighborhood of East Harlem. This location makes us a prime spot for both locals and tourists exploring the area. We are easily accessible and are located near local landmarks like the Museum of the City of New York and the Apollo theater. Free street parking is available in the area, providing a convenient option for those arriving by car.

The restaurant's design and layout are thoughtfully planned. In addition to our indoor seating, we have a "beautiful backyard" and offer outdoor seating, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal on a pleasant day. The interior is cozy and trendy, creating a comfortable and sophisticated environment. Our facilities include a gender-neutral restroom and Wi-Fi, enhancing the overall convenience and inclusivity of the space.

We offer a comprehensive range of services to fit every need, from a quick meal to a full-scale event.

• Outdoor Seating: Enjoy your meal in our lovely backyard space, perfect for groups and a relaxed dining experience. Dogs are also allowed outside, making us a pet-friendly option.
• Curbside Pickup & Takeout: For a convenient and quick meal, you can order ahead and pick up your food directly from the curb or inside the restaurant.
• No-Contact Delivery & Delivery: We offer both no-contact and standard delivery options, bringing our delicious food straight to your door.
• Dine-in: Our cozy and inviting indoor space is perfect for a leisurely meal with friends or family, offering table service.
• Reservations: We accept reservations and recommend them, especially for brunch and dinner, to ensure you get a table during our popular hours.
• Catering & Private Events: We offer catering services for parties and can host private events in our full venue, which includes a bar and a lovely patio space.

What makes Bistro Casa Azul a truly special dining experience are the unique features and highlights that set us apart from a typical Mexican restaurant.

• Authentic, Elevated Cuisine: Our food is not the typical Tex-Mex you find everywhere. It is a gourmet, authentic Mexican experience, described as "uncommon," "unique," and prepared with "real ingredients."
• Great Cocktails & Wine List: We offer fantastic beverages, including "fantastic margaritas made with real ingredients" and a "great wine list," with options for wine pairings. We also feature a full bar with beer, hard liquor, and a variety of unique cocktails.
• Warm & Welcoming Atmosphere: The ambiance is a highlight, blending a cozy, trendy, and upscale feel. The gender-neutral restrooms, high chairs for kids, and general family-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly environment make it a comfortable place for all.
• Women-Owned Business: We are proud to be a women-owned business, adding to the diverse and vibrant community of East Harlem.
• Ideal for Groups & Dates: With amenities like a bar onsite, seating for groups, and a cozy atmosphere, we are perfect for a variety of gatherings, from a casual outing with friends to a romantic date night.
• Kid-Friendly: With high chairs and a changing table, we are a great spot for families with young children, ensuring a comfortable experience for everyone.

For inquiries or to make a reservation, you can contact us at the following:

Address: 343 Pleasant Ave, New York, NY 10035, USA

Phone: (917) 805-0803

Choosing Bistro Casa Azul is choosing an experience of quality, authenticity, and warmth. While our entire menu is a work of art, some items and categories stand out as truly worth choosing. Our Tacoooohhhhhs are a must-try. With a name that expresses the pure joy they bring, they are a fan favorite for their authenticity and freshness. The "Chorizo Tacos" and "Shrimp Tacos" are particularly popular choices.

For a perfect start to your meal, the "Guacamonica" is an excellent choice. Praised for being "one of the best guacamole we have eaten," it's made with fresh, real ingredients and serves as a fantastic introduction to our commitment to quality. Another outstanding appetizer is the "Poblano Pisano," described as being "to die for" and made with fresh vegetables, a unique and healthy take on a classic dish.

When it comes to entrees, the Filet Mignon is a stellar option, with reviews highlighting dishes like "Filet Mignon 'como Dios manda'" and "Filet Mignon Au Gratin." For those seeking a delicious dessert, the "Flan de Casa" is an expertly made treat that perfectly concludes an outstanding meal.

What truly makes this place a gem, as many reviewers have stated, is the combination of impeccable food and amazing service. The owners and staff go above and beyond to make you feel at home. It’s a place where the food is "super fresh, and really creative," and the people are "incredibly nice." The availability of a full bar with a great selection of cocktails and wines also adds a layer of enjoyment that is not to be missed.

Ultimately, what is worth choosing is the entire experience. It's a place that caters to both lunch and dinner, offering a casual yet upscale atmosphere. It’s a place that is proud of its heritage and shares it with every dish. It's a place that is family-friendly and dog-friendly, welcoming all. Choosing Bistro Casa Azul is choosing to support a local, women-owned business that is dedicated to providing East Harlem and all of New York with an authentic taste of Mexico.

Bistro Casa Azul

343 Pleasant Ave, New York, NY 10035, USA