New Coral Gables Mexican Spot Opens in Intimate Space

When Mario Bernal decided to open his first restaurant, he did not go looking for a flashy high-rise or a local strip mall. Instead, he found a house. Casa MX, which opened on January 24 at 2345 SW 37th Ave., occupies a former Coral Gables residence that has been converted into a 150-seat spot inspired by Mexico City.

Executive chef Kevin Acosta has put together a menu that explores the diverse influences on cuisine in Mexico’s capital city, from its indigenous roots to global flavors. The kitchen splits the menu between small plates and large-format entrees.

A Menu Inspired by Mexico City

To start, the menu begins with duck confit flautas and queso fundido made with mezcal and rajas. The raw section includes options like ceviches and aguachile de pulpo with cilantro and jalapeño, as well as scallop tostadas served with salsa cruda. A variety of tacos, ranging from confit pork shoulder to beef tongue, are served on house-made tortillas.

For larger plates, the kitchen serves a pollo arabe kebab — a Mexican shawarma marinated chicken dish that’s a nod to the Middle Eastern influences found in Mexico City — served with bean hummus and Mexican tzatziki. Other options include costilla y chayote, featuring beef ribs with a guajillo beer glaze, and a whole pescado a la talla.

The beverage program, led by Anthony Sanchez, is focused on agave spirits. While you can find a classic “Casa MX Margarita” topped with salt espuma, the bar also shakes up options like “Tigers Milk,” a blend of pisco, St. Germain, and clarified citrus.

Agave and Atmosphere

After a decade with the José Andrés Group and stints at The Setai and Barcelona Wine Bar, Mario Bernal is pivoting to a hospitality model rooted in home life. “The name Casa MX is really intentional,” Bernal says. “We really want our guests to feel at home the moment they step into the restaurant.”

To nail the aesthetic, Bogotá-based architect Manuel Lizarralde spent a month in Mexico City before transforming the 2,800-square-foot former residence. The result is rooms decked in greens, earth tones, and rattan lighting. The design emphasizes a “feminine energy,” with floral art and portraits of women preserving culinary traditions.

The layout boasts a 52-seat patio and an 86-seat dining room carved into several smaller spaces.

“From the decor to the service style, and approachable price point, we want everyone to feel cozy and comfortable when they come into our house,” Bernal says.

Casa MX. 2345 SW 37th Ave., Miami; casamxmiami.com.