We LOVE old-school Mexican food.
The chips & guacamole, the super-cheesy enchiladas, and–yes–even the deep-fried chimichangas (and the “gasoline” margaritas at Sinaloa).
Light & healthy it is not.
We also LOVE “New Mexican” cuisine.
The grilled fresh fish tacos, the unique & unusual salsas, the made-to-order tortillas.
But sometimes the creativity goes to far (Mexican wood-fried pizza?–sorry, I just don’t get it).
Enter C Casa, a new addition to the ever-growing culinary scene at Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa.
I met the owner Catherine a few weeks ago.
I was immediately intrigued not only by her background but also by this new venture she calls “An Innovative Taqueria”.
So when we ran errands down in Napa this past weekend, we stopped in for lunch.
Walking into the market, we were immediately impressed by the wonderful patio.
When we went inside to order, we were equally impressed.
We shared the Spiced Lamb Taco, the C Casa Chicken Taco, the Grilled Mahi Mahi Taco, and the “Nachos Not!”.
Everything was wonderful. The portions were just right, but we ordered too much food for our family of three. Next time, we’ll order fewer items, or a salad or such in place of the nachos. While the food was intensely flavored–in that fresh, perfectly-delicious way–nothing was too spicy for Samantha.
Service is walk-up and the atmosphere is casual. Prices, especially for Napa, are reasonable.
Who: All ages–the market is bustling and just loud enough that families with kids of all ages can relax
What: A fresh, original, and sophisticated take on Mexican cuisine in a hip environment
Where: Oxbow Public Market, 610 First Street Suite 6, near downtown Napa
When: Anytime of year; lunch or dinner (and breakfast on the weekends)
Why: To “do Mexican” in a delicious, innovative, and healthy way
