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Casa MX, a contemporary Mexican restaurant inspired by Mexico City and the ritual of gathering at home, has officially opened in Coral Gables, bringing a warm, house-driven approach to modern Mexican dining to Miami.
Located at 2345 SW 37th Ave inside a former home, Casa MX debuted on January 24 with a concept rooted in hospitality, comfort and shared experience. The restaurant blends small plates and large-format entrees with craft cocktails centered on agave spirits, all set within an inviting, residential-style space designed for lingering—from long lunches that turn into afternoon coffee to nights that stretch into cocktails. Plus, free parking!
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The independently owned restaurant is led by Mario Bernal, a veteran operator whose resumé includes The Hotel Victor, The Setai, Rosa Mexicano, Barcelona Wine Bar and, most recently, a decade with José Andrés Group. For Bernal, Casa MX reflects the rhythms of Mexican home life, where meals anchor daily routines and the table serves as the emotional center of the house.
Leading the kitchen is executive chef Kevin Acosta, whose menu draws from the multicultural layers of Mexican cuisine as experienced in Mexico City, where Indigenous traditions, global influences and regional styles converge. The result is a menu that feels expressive yet familiar, balancing vibrant flavors with comfort-driven cooking.
Highlights include citrus-forward ceviches and aguachiles like ceviche sinaloa with tuna, avocado and amaranth, and aguachile de pulpo with cilantro, jalapeño and cucumber. Tostadas topped with scallops and salsa cruda, queso fundido with rajas and green chorizo, and show-stopping large plates like costilla y chayote—beef ribs glazed with guajillo beer and served with chayote purée—anchor the shareable format. Other standouts range from pollo arabe kebab, a Mexican take on shawarma, to a whole pescado a la talla served boneless and ready to eat.
The beverage program, led by Anthony Sanchez, centers on agave spirits and classic Mexican cocktails with a modern twist. Signatures include the Casa MX margarita with Mijenta silver tequila and salt espuma, a reposado margarita accented with orange blossom water, and more inventive drinks like tiger's milk, blending pisco and St. Germain. The focus is on balance and drinkability, encouraging guests to settle in rather than rush out.
“The name Casa MX is really intentional. We really want our guests to feel at home the moment they step into the restaurant,” Bernal said in a statement. “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.”
Spanning 2,800 square feet and 150 seats, Casa MX unfolds across several distinct spaces, including a 52-seat patio, a 12-seat bar and multiple dining rooms. The design, by Bogotá-based architect Manuel Lizarralde, draws directly from a month spent in Mexico City, translating its material culture and everyday beauty into deep greens, warm earth tones, natural textures and layered lighting. Artwork featuring women and florals lines the walls, subtly honoring the role women play in preserving culinary traditions and shaping domestic life.
At its core, Casa MX is about creating a space where food, drink and design come together to channel the spirit of Mexico City. The restaurant is currently open for dinner and weekend lunch, with plans to expand to daily lunch and brunch in the coming months. Reservations are available here.