Casa Romero
This labor of love lures devoted diners down a nondescript alley in the Back Bay for standout Mexican cuisine.
(617) 892-4207
30 Gloucester St
(at Newbury Street)
Boston,
MA
02115
42.3495
-71.0843
Neighborhoods: Black Bay West, Back Bay
Hours:
Sun-Thu 5pm-10pm
Fri-Sat 5pm-11pm
Price:
$$$
Last updated 4.30.09
What People Are Saying About Casa Romero
The Owner
Casa Romero
Owner
Since 1972, my customers still tell me what a delightful discovery it is to step out of a Boston alley and into the heart of Mexico. That is exactly what I had envisioned when I decorated the coffered door and walls of my restaurant with the bright Talavera tiles from Puebla, Mexico. Casa Romero is located in the midst of glamorous Back Bay at 30 Gloucester Street between Newbury Street and Commonwealth Avenue.
The Editor
Eric Grossman
Citysearch
The Scene
More than 30 years ago, Leo Romero decided against following in his family's political footsteps and opened this gem of a restaurant in an alleyway between Newbury Street and Commonwealth Avenue. Romero's award-winning cuisine--a taste of which vindicates his career choice--is complemented by his restaurant's lovely interior: exposed brick, imported tiles and colorful artwork make this one of the city's best date spots (come summer, ask for a table in the lovely outdoor courtyard). Friendly waiters deliver strong margaritas and delicious sangria from the service-only bar.
The Food
Those ready to graduate from the burrito and quesadilla sector of Mexican cuisine come to sample smoky huitlacoche mushrooms wrapped in spinach tortillas, pork tenderloin marinated in oranges and smoked chipotle peppers. The revelatory mole poblano arrives with a deliciously intricate sauce, made with chocolate and too many spices to mention. Desserts, including a complex ricotta-coconut cheesecake, are also excellent.
User Reviews
paf6571
February 12, 2009
I have been to the Casa a dozen times and I am very impressed with everything there. Only the freshest ingrediants are used and every dish seems to be perfect.The decorations of the restaurant make you feel like you are in Mexico. It doesn't get better than the Casa.
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financefoodie
February 10, 2009
I should have sensed the red flags when I saw the entrance was located in a public alley. Although the service was very friendly, the decor of the place was dingy and slightly musty looking (I hesitated to sit by the wall, as I was afraid a termite might pop out). My broiled shrimp entree was poorly presented and looked like a gloppy mess. The shrimps were nicely plump, but lacked proper seasoning (unless the soupy swampy-green puddle was supposed to function as the dip). Short on time, we decided to forgo dessert, which might have not been a bad decision, considering the quality of the entrees. I was also shocked to see most of the entrees averaged around $25 (due to the Back Bay price inflation perhaps?), as I have had better and cheaper food at Taco Cabana. My experience at Casa Romero felt like the movie Waterworld: overpriced, overhyped, and a major disappointment.
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JFHolzwarth
January 01, 2009
DO NOT TRUST THIS RESTAURANT! They advertised a 4 course pri fixe menu for New Year's Eve. We made reservations WEEKS in advance. We called a cab to take us there for our 7:30 reservation and there was a sign on the door saying "Closed dur to water damage." NO PHONE CALL or posting on their website alerting customers to this at all on New Year's Eve. Obviously there were no other places to go that were not already full! DO NOT GO HERE UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES! They are inconsiderate and frankly, not worth it. There are plenty of other reputable restaurants in Boston who do know the proper way to alert diners to a cancellation. BE WARNED!
read full reviewThe Details on Casa Romero
Know Before You Go:
Look for L'Espalier: Hard-to-spot Casa Romero is located behind this venerable French establishment.
When to Go:
Despite its clandestine location, the restaurant does a strong weekend business (reservations are essential).
The Extras:
Those looking to enjoy a romantic date on Romero's intimate patio can bring along the pooch, provided he behaves.
Category:
Payment Methods:
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Romantic Dining, Date Spot, Special Occasion Dining, Outdoor Dining
Cuisine:
Smoking Permitted:
No
Message from Casa Romero
- Between Newbury & Commonwealth
- Early Bird Menu 3 courses $21
- Authentic Mexican Dining
Since 1972, my customers still tell me what a delightful discovery it is to step out of a Boston alley and into the heart of Mexico. That is exactly what I had envisioned when I decorated the coffered door and walls of my restaurant with the bright Talavera tiles from Puebla, Mexico. Casa Romero is located in the midst of glamorous Back Bay at 30 Gloucester Street between Newbury Street and Commonwealth Avenue.
