Saturday, February 21, 2009
Culinary Delight at Casona
If you desire to try something other than the multitude of Italian restaurants in Collingswood, N.J. your most appealing alternative is this Cuban and Latin BYOB.
The restaurant is housed in a large, residential-style house. In warm weather try and snag a seat on the grand wrap around porch. Outdoor dining under the ceiling fans adds a whole different element to your dining experience. The atmosphere is relaxing. Light Latin music plays throughout the restaurant. It’s just loud enough that you can enjoy listening to it while easily carrying on a conversation with your dinner party.
Past dining experiences have all included occasional bumps in service. They previously walked a fine line between a “relaxed” pace, which appears to be the vibe they are trying to set, and a delayed pace with extended waits in between courses. It seems that they recently found their balance. On my last trip to Casona the service was flawless.
One of the many highlights on their menu is the Habana Maduro appetizer: ripened fried whole plantains topped with Swiss cheese and your choice of Picadillo (Cuban seasoned ground sirloin, tri colored peppers, olives & raisins) or Lechon (citrus-marinated slow-roasted pork) with chayote salad. If you would prefer something else then you must try their Empanadas De Pollo: seasoned chicken in a crisp flour shell or Empanadas De Queso: Jack & Cheddar cheeses, onion & peppers in a crisp flour shell.
If you love pork, especially traditional “Carolina” pulled pork, then you will thoroughly enjoy their Cuban version pulled pork entree called Lechon Asado: citrus-marinated pork, slow roasted Cuban-style with saffron rice. Another entree highlight is their Arroz con Pollo Cubano: chicken breast, chorizo, olives, beer reduction, saffron rice. The flavors in all of the meals were balanced and integrated. The food was also visually appealing which enhanced the dining experience. We could not wait to devour each course.
Dessert selections are somewhat limited. The usual highlight is their tres leches cake. They also have a diverse coffee bar with many selections to enjoy along with your dessert.
Dress is casual. Price is reasonable.
Check it out for yourself: http://www.mycasona.com
***See April 19, 2009 updated review
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