Casa Lola, a new Mexican restaurant Downtown, is more than a solid place to eat. It’s more than a spot with extraordinary service, more than a restaurant run by pros.
More than all that, it’s a lot of fun.
When I told my wife Casa Lola reminded me of Disneyland, she said, “Like in a bad way?” No, I said. In the best way.
It reminded me of the imagination, service and entertainment value of an in-person Disney event.
Every wall, plate, seat and light fixture at Casa Lola feels like it was imagineered.
Floor-to-ceiling murals with jaguars and hummingbirds seem to pop right off the walls. A Spanish-style veranda hangs over the passthrough, overflowing with bougainvillea and palm fronds. Heavy wood and leather-strap furniture look straight out of Acapulco.
Myriad lamps light the room. Geometric patterned lamps hang next to simple woven reed shades, their electrical cords disappearing into a high industrial ceiling, reminiscent of Space Mountain. Like I said: imagineered.
There’s something of the performative about the place. But it’s done with such earnestness that it arrives without artifice.
Casa Lola is the most recent addition to MAC Hospitality Group. Mason Wong and his brothers are the minds behind Iron Horse Tavern, Mas Taco Bar, MIX Downtown and Cafeteria 15L. Casa Lola developed in partnership with Wong’s fiancé, Sylvia Moreno.
Her love for this food and culture, combined with Wong’s restaurant knowledge, make for an impressive output.
Everything from plating to music feels on point. Even the bonkers birthday celebrations with earsplitting house music, giant sparklers and bowls of ice cream make for an entertainment experience.
Every touch from every server is intentional. Insights on the menu, the cocktails and more seem to flow with each interaction and conversation.
A simple plate of shrimp ceviche is anything but simple. It pops with color, thanks to pickled onions, cucumbers, avocados and mangoes. It zings with citrus and chili notes. A plate of grilled fish tacos is well spiced and seasoned, and served alongside a pyramid of Mexican rice and exquisite beans.
A bowl of posole, a beautiful pork and hominy stew, satisfies with tender chunks of fall-apart pork swimming in red chili broth.
The cocktail menu is a notch above. A coconut margarita sounds kitschy, but it’s a sophisticated glass. Tequila, coconut cream and lime juice topped with toasted coconut and a lime wheel hits just right on hot summer days.
Steps away from the Safe Credit Union Performing Arts Center and Convention Center, and Memorial Auditorium, Casa Lola operates in one of the busiest parts of town. Yet you feel like you’ve walked into an oasis.
I’m a focus-on-the-food guy. Service can be no more than a grunt and head nod if the food is good enough. But I was blown away by the vibe at Casa Lola.
Whether you’re taking the kids or grandma, whether entertaining clients or just looking for a superb Mexican meal, Casa Lola is the place to go.
Casa Lola is at 1132 16th St.; vivacasalola.com; (916) 446-0888.
Greg Sabin can be reach at saceats@gmail.com. Folllow us on Facebook, X and Instagram: @insidesacramento.
