Bistro Casa Azul is a hidden gem in east Harlem. Cozy interior with amazing food and drinks

The food and owners were top notch! A quaint neighborhood gem, with fresh and flavorful food. You cant go wrong.... read more

I'd gone to Bistro Casa Azul a few weeks ago. A clean, quiet & cozy spot. I'd started off with the grapefruit margarita, and ended with 2 more glasses. My entree was the succulent chicken wrapped in plantain with spicy potatoes on the side. The guacamole appetizer was fresh with a kick. I am bringing a companion next time. read more

Amazing shrimp in the ceviche and the gambas alajallo. Tacos (steak and shrimp) also amazing. Cool decor! read more

What a delightful restaurant! We walked in on a sunny Sunday afternoon and sat outside. It's a little hidden oasis out in the back. This is by far the best guacamole ever eaten (and I have traveled to Mexico and other places) right here in Harlem! Drinks and food were delicious. The owners were lively. Cannot wait to go back. read more

Terrible service. Would not recommend at all. Incompetent staff that drank on the job instead of waiting on customers Group of 5 sat outside. We ordered a round of margaritas and they were good. It was about 6:20pm on a Saturday, and we asked if we could order food. They said the kitchen was not open but would open around 6pm - we said it was 6:20pm and they said it would "actually" open at 6:45pm. We decided to wait because the drinks were good so we figured the food would be as well. We asked after 1 round of drinks if the kitchen was open, he said just for chips, salsa, and guac. We ordered some of that and ate it happily. After sitting there for over an hour with no word from the waiter that the kitchen was open for dinner (the waiter was sitting on the table outside next to ours drinking a cocktail, not bothering to come and refill our chips), we decided to grab tacos from a nearby restaurant and bring it to our outside table. Only after we ordered tacos from another takeout spot did the waiter finally come and tell us the dinner menu was open - note that it was past 7:30pm on a Saturday and we had asked twice already if we could order dinner. He said we aren't allowed to have outside food and made it very awkward, stating that it is hard to run a small business and that is why we weren't allowed to bring outside food in. I responded that we had been ordering multiple rounds of drinks for over an hour supporting their business, only getting other food because the dinner menu was not being served. The waiter was incredibly rude, saying that we were messy and making him clean up after food that was not their restaurant's food and he even resorted to asking me questions like "what I did for work" i.e insulting my character and implying that I have no idea what it would be like to struggle or run a small business. I wish I had responded "you let us sit here for over an hour with no dinner service, and if you had let us stay here and eat our takeout we would have ordered many more rounds". Would not recommend this restaurant to anyone. Terrible service, rude staff, and a haughty taughty vibe even though it was completely empty besides us. P.S. two other weird things: - We asked for a chip refill and with our salsa and he said "well, you're going to have to pay for it you know" in a condescending tone (we would have been happy to pay and we assumed we would have to, but the tone was unnecessary) - The bathroom had a sliding door and after I went the waiter asked me to please close the bathroom door after going to the restroom because it would disrupt the vibe of the restaurant (there was no one inside, literally 0 customers besides us) read more

Absolutely amazing. It's such an overlooked spot and it's a shame because both the food and ambiance are amazing. The food is freshly made and delicious. The owners serve you personally and they couldn't be sweeter! This place should definitely be your go-to spot. We had the Pollo Enrollado and the Steak Tacos. As an appetizer we had the guacamole with chips and it was insane. Freshly made and spicy. Will definitely be back. read more

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The food here was absolutely amazing. No words can describe how good the cuisine is here. If you really really love Latin food, specifically mexican, this is your spot. Lou the owner happened to take care of our table due to short staff for the day, the service was great and he really went into depth about ingredients for each menu item, and I really enjoyed that. I really felt his passion as an owner and I feel for that reason alone, the pride he takes in his places creations comes through loud and clear. read more

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I just moved into the neighborhood and Bistro Casa Azul looked so inviting, I tried it immediately. I can't believe how lucky I am to live near this place! Completely charming! The margaritas are fantastic, as is the guacamole. The owners are so warm and friendly! Working my way through the menu - the chorizo tacos are delicious. Here's to many more visits! read more

Oh wow! Love this place. Gourmet healthy Mexican cooking at its finest! Chef Maria did such a great job with the our meal. The poblano pepper is to die for, made with daily fresh vegetables, really unlike the typical poblano you will find, stuffed with cheese and fried. The chef special salad is delicately seasoned with nuances pls or and made with the freshest greens. The desert flan was expertly made. Service from the friendly staff is outstanding and the atmosphere of the restaurant is super cute and quite upscale, suitable for family gatherings and date nights. Oh and there is a beautiful backyard, allowing the restaurant to entertain large parties. Truly a gem in East Harlem. read more

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Stuffed pepper with veggies, fish tacos and veggie burrito wrap were delish! Mango margarita was five stars. The owner is a super nice guy too. Highly recommend! read more

During the 2020 holidays, a few friends and I dined at this spot serving elevated Mexican cuisine. We ended up being the restaurants' last customers before being restricted to outdoor dining only. The interior was pretty and there was a cozy atmosphere. The place boasted brick walls, blue neon around the bar area, fresh flowers (pink roses and white lilies), buttery brown plush seats, and dark brown wood tables. There were a few appetizing sounding menu items, such as the salmon and pork loin entrées. However, they were out of salmon, so I decided to order the Filet Mignon au Gratin. This consisted of grass fed filet mignon, wrapped in bacon, smothered in Oaxaca cheese, along with rice with no beans for me. Interestingly, there was no potato element, despite the name of the dish. The plating was lovely, and the filet mignon portion was generous. The rice included peas and peppers, and I also had a small side salad in place of the beans. The filet mignon was delightfully tender and well seasoned. The cheese was melty and added to the flavors. The only part I wasn't that a huge fan of was the bacon, which was not crispy enough for me. It was also quite fatty. The rice was pretty tasty and I liked that the rice wasn't just plain rice. The salad brought a nice fresh, as well as crunchy element to the meal. One of my friends had the Pastel Tres Leches, and I was able to try some of it. This particular tres leches cake was unique, in that it wasn't sitting in the milky creamy sauce that usually accompanies this dessert, but it was still delicious! In between the 2 layers of light, airy sponge cake was perfectly velvety smooth frosting. The top was beautifully bruleed with a sprinkling of white chocolate and chocolate pearls. The cake was wonderfully moist and that frosting was just the right amount of sweetness and filled with rich milky, vanilla taste. Service was top notch. The host was extremely welcoming and great to talk with. We were well taken care of throughout our time here. There was a bowl full of yummy candies at the bar, so we each helped ourselves to what we desired. When we received the bill, there was a Lindt chocolate ball for each of us, which was a thoughtful touch. I would return if in the area. read more

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The service was excellent. We sat at the bar and ordered food for takeout. The owner made recommendations and one of the very best margaritas I've ever had. We split the Filet Mignon Au Gratin and the Chicken Stuffed with Plantain. The food was absolutely delicious. High-quality ingredients at the hands of a chef who knows flavors and textures made each dish perfect. We also had black beans and saffron rice and sauteed vegetables. Everything was fresh, well-balanced, and tasty. The atmosphere is cozy and pretty. I can't wait to come back. read more

Bistro Casa Azul - Decorations - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Food is excellent, authentic flavors and original twists plus the best guacamole you will find. The shrimp in oil / garlic were dipped to death, the meatballs were just like the best Spanish tapas balls. This local spot is a gem, cherish it. We were delighted and will be back. read more

Bistro Casa Azul - Take out too - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

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Wow! Visiting New York from California and craving some Mexican food. Not only was the food delicious, whipped up by the chef whom we got to meet, but the service by the owner was just amazing & fabulous. We felt taken care of and like family right away! Thank you so much for the wonderful time. Highly highly recommend!!! read more

Bistro Casa Azul - Veggie Tacoohhhhh - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

I absolutely love the food and bar selection here! On top of having amazing food and drinks the owners are very nice people. Let me start off with saying the place and atmosphere is so cute. They have indoor and out door seating. On Friday's and Sunday's during the day they have a live band. I've sat both inside and outdoors, both are great vibes. I had the Serrano margarita on a separate stop in and it was delicious! A great flavor with a little spice. This review is on the last meal I had with some friends. We had the guacamole and the salsa trio with chips... fire!!! Some wine, they have a great wine selection and he makes sure it keeps coming, very attentive service! To eat, I had the Gambas al Ajillo with a side of toasted bread and it was so delicious that I still think about it. I crave it! It was packed with flavor. One friends had the carnitas tacos she loved them... and my other friend is vegan and had a salad that he also enjoyed. I highly recommend this place. There are so many things I want to try on the menu here! read more

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*CASH ONLY* We went here for my boyfriend's birthday dinner - it looked like a quaint yet modern Mexican restaurant, and it's walking distance from our place! We walked in, and I fell in love with the dim lighting, deep blue tiles, and whole fruit and growing chili peppers used as decorations. There were only about 6 other people present, which is a lot considering this place is usually empty or only hosting a few people at a time. So if you're looking for a quiet and intimate date night, this is the place to go! While perusing through the menu, an employee comes up to us to see if we have any questions. I didn't have any questions about the food, but I did ask him if they did anything for birthdays. Judging by his answer of "Sure we can do something.", it sounded like they don't usually do anything for birthdays, but because I asked nicely, they would be able to whip something up. He also asked if we wanted any wine to go with our food. We have zero knowledge on wine, so he was nice enough to let us sample some of the red wine Bistro Casa Azul has. I felt awful in the sense I didn't like any of the red wine he offered, as I don't drink much, but he accepted that with a smile. My boyfriend did end up getting his own glass of red wine to celebrate his birthday. After some wine sampling, I ended up ordering the filet mignon with bacon and Oaxaca cheese. As I ordered my steak medium rare, it was tender and so easy to cut! This steak was rich, and its juicy and savory flavors were complimented by the fatty bacon and creamy Oaxaca cheese. The yellow rice was fluffy and a bit aromatic as well. Together, they were the perfect sized portion to eat at the restaurant without any leftovers nor without feeling too full - for most people. Later on, as I am expecting the check, our waiter comes out with a beautiful slice of light vanilla cake. It has some delicious vanilla mousse as well, making it the perfectly sweet and airy dessert to end our meals here. A dinner for 2 and some wine ended up costing us around $70 with tip, and because this place is cash only, make sure to bring a lot of cash with you! Bistro Casa Azul is pricey, but it's worth it! If you're ever in the mood for splurging on yourself and/or for others, this is the place to go! read more

Bistro Casa Azul - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

I eat here often, and have never had a negative experience. Everything is fresh, delicious, and incredible on a consistent basis. I can't speak highly enough of their mollettes benedicto, the huevos rancheros, the rice and beans, flautas, Maria's flan, or the delicious drinks. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu. read more

This restaurant is just around the corner from my son's new apartment. We were welcomed by Lou. So friendly. The food and margaritas were excellent. Fresh flowers on every table. Can't wait to go back and sit in the outdoor garden! read more

Nice people. Awesome music and decor- the feeling of the place feels good and very clean. The food- great but lack on presentation. tacos dry_ no sauce was ever offered. No small plates were given for the appetizers I had to ask and they didn't offer water either. The place was empty so I was surprised they were not on point. Guacamole great! just needs more chips Gambas small- lacking presentation again Margarita cool with the spicy spice on the rims Not sure if I would try it again but wish them the best. You guys can do better! Was going to suggest to give out flyers over the weekend but you need to get it perfect first! :) best! read more

Bistro Casa Azul - Love the choices and very affordable - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

We had two different margaritas. The hibiscus marg and the grapefruit margarita. Both margaritas were disgusting. Watered down grapefruit and the hibiscus was nasty and too strong as well. We ordered the filet mignon appetizer for $17.50 and it was literally 5 pieces of steak and tomatoes and onions. Not worth the price but well seasoned food. Overall I give this place 3 stars because the service is good but they are pricey! Entrees starting at $17. The have vegan options and outside seating. 3 chicken tacos start at $11. read more

Would not recommend for a large group. We made and confirmed reservations for inside the night before but were disappointed to find out that they had double booked when we got there and we were forced to be seated outside in their make shift street eating area. Most businesses on a busy avenue have plexiglass so that the passing cars don't disturb or kick up debris/dirt while your eating but this place doesn't. Regardless of this, we still dined here to try to support a local business during COVD. The pricing lacked transparency since we were a large group and they hand tallied the bill (unprofessional in my book). We couldn't even verify or dispute any charges. On to the food, the fish tacos are decent but the guac is super bland. Again, I wouldn't recommend unless they change how the do business especially since there are so many other Mexican food options in East Harlem that are more authentic, tastier, and better priced. Edit: to be clear we were there from 7:15pm to 9:30 so it wasn't 3.5 hours and I only reviewed your place ONCE. I'm SORRY you're so insulted over my review but that just shows how your business handles honest feedback and how a majority of your reviews are clearly by friends and not by paying customers. Be more professional or get out of the neighborhood because there's a lot of better and more authentic choices. BEYOND DISAPPOINTED in the lack of humbleness and integrity where you attack customers instead of owning up to faults in service. read more

I just tried Maria's Mole Verde which was so complex and delicious. Combined with a salad with shaved fennel and the most delicate dressing that helped wake up my taste buds it was nothing short of culinary fireworks. Lou was gracious and neighborly and I can't wait to return to the backyar for more. read more

Came here for brunch & it was delicious! I tried the huevos rancheros which exceeded my expectations! Bottomless mango-linis we're amazing, They had live music outside, & some really nice classy jazz music inside for seating. Definitely recommend! read more

Took my wife and son recently to celebrate his birthday. Could not be happier. From the guacamole de la casa with home made chips, to the brisket tacos that melted in your mouth. My son was surprised and serenaded with a magnificent dessert plate with candle. Maria and Louis are front and center with the neighborhood and form an Integral part of the community. Their restaurant is the Northern lynchpin of Pleasant Ave. We are lifelong patrons of Casa Azul read more

The service was fabulous, food great! Very pleased with this place. I had the carnitas tacos, very delicious but the guacamole was off the chain delicious!!! read more

Bistro Casa Azul - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Everything was outstanding from the service to the food! I got some steak tacos and my wife got this plantain stuffed chicken which had a kick and the sweetness complimented it delicious!! Drinks were delicious and strong! Owners make you feel like family! Gave us a shrimp appetizer on the house and it was out of this world! The marinade juice was one of the tastiest marinades i ever had! We could have drank it lol. This place is a must try! Very cozy also. Cant wait to go back. I almost forgot! They also comped us with flan which was amazing! So moist and creamy, absolutely delicious!!!!!! read more

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Really liked this place in East Harlem. Had lunch there and the menu is pretty simple in a good way and everything is absolutely delicious!

Absolutely delicious food with hospitable hosts. My mom and I came in for brunch, were warmly greeted and seated right away and quickly received delicious, hot french press coffee. We ordered the bacon, huevos rancheros and molletes. The sauce on the huevos rancheros was outstanding, with just the right amount of heat. The molletes (French bread with pico de gallo and Oaxaca cheese) were yummy, fresh, and simultaneously light and filling. And the bacon... OH THE BACON! The bacon was unbelievably smokey and a little sweet with lick-the-plate-good maple glaze. The owner was always checking in and making sure we had all we need. Overall a great spot for a laid back delicious brunch. read more

SO GOOD. I live in the neighborhood and have been meaning to try this place for the longest time. So glad I did. The decor, the music, the service, wine and most importantly the food were all spot on. Can't say enough about how great everything was. We had the chorizo tacos, the carnitas, and chicken enrollado. Everything was delicious and we ate every bite. For dessert we had the tres leches cake which was seriously the best I've ever had. Can't wait to go back! read more

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This place is truly a hidden gem! The tacooohs are to die for and the staff are the absolute sweetest! I'm going to become a regular for sure. read more

Bistro Casa Azul - This is the beautiful ambiance of the place! - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

I was craving something fresh and light, came to get a salad on my break at work. I tried the Chickpea salad, which was $9. I thought that was pretty pricey considering what I received, although it was a very generously sized portion. I really wanted to like it but the lime vinaigrette lacked any real lime flavor. I was expecting a punch of citrus but all I could really taste was olive oil. I would get it again, but only if they put extra salt and pepper with half a fresh lime to squeeze over it. The owner was very friendly and nice, and the place is very cute as well. I would try something different off the menu next time. read more

Ese señor se le olvida todo. Luego ni se acuerda de los aperitivos y las bebidas y sale el plato principal. Hasta nos cobro mal al final. La comida es más o menos read more

There are amazing ! Best margarita in town! Wonderful shrimp tacos and great tres leches! Wonderful service! read more

Bistro Casa Azul - Entrees!! - Mexican Near Me - New York, New York

Such a great diversion. The owners and the chef create acts of love.... Great escape after target and Costco! Have awesome cocktails and wine.... Fantastic guacamole.... A must stop by in Spanish Harlem. read more

Excellent service, incredible food, comfortable space. I've had brunch here twice now and I already feel like family. Definitely going to stop by for a tequila tasting or one of their other events in the near future. read more

Divine. Hole in the wall in East Harlem. Ask Lou and Maria and they can give you a good wine pairing with their gourmet. read more

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It was great dining experience at Bistro Casa Azul!The food is delivered with passion and solid flavors all throughout every dish! The food and service is outstanding and the drinks are equally delicious. We are definitely coming back! Thank you Maria and Lou for hospitality and an amazing experience! read more

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I have been to this lovely new restaurant twice so far; once for brunch and the other time for dinner. Both times we were very pleased. It is great having a restaurant in this area. It is pretty dead when it comes to this neighborhood in terms of quality food. There's Applebee's and a coffee place. It is wonderful for folks who come here for shopping as well as for the locals! Casa Azul is a great place!! It has a welcoming vibe, and it is tastefully decorated with some really interesting pieces of art. The owners are great; friendly and accommodating. On both occasions food has been solid. Everything is fresh and prepared exactly as described on the menu. They have a strong wine list. I am going back on Saturday night with a friend!! Please support this new restaurant! read more

To start, I'm not sure why this place considers itself a Mexican restaurant. I probably could have guessed that I'd be disappointed by the fact that they included the French word "bistro" in the name. I didn't come here for the "filet mignon au gratin", people (not joking, that item is on the menu). In the absence of enchiladas, quesadillas, burritos and any other Traditional Mexican dish you can think of, I ordered a variety of tacos. they were nothing special. The tortilla was cardboard (or something similar to it). We basically emptied an entire salt shaker into the guac to make it palatable. Also, these guys have a pretty interesting billing system (aka a nonexistent billing system). We had a larger group and rather than keeping track of exactly what we ordered and in what quantity on a standard POS machine, he simply produced a Piece of paper with a (HUGE) number on it at the end of the night. Needless to say, there were A LOT OF RAISED EYEBROWS -- everyone was kinda outraged. The "bill" was completely out of left field and what followed was an unsavory argument to end an already unsavory night. Would never recommend to anyone ever! UPDATE: In response to below: when we left at 9p my fiancé paid for that which the whole group had ordered (+tip) and left an extra $400 to cover what they might order after we left. It has become clear that you pocketed that extra money that you called "a generous tip" and then presented the remaining group with another $300 bill when they left 30-40 minutes later ...here in lies the cause of the outrage, folks. Ps: if helpful, the brisket was the best of the 3 tacos. But pleeeaaaassee do add salt to your guac read more