Back to the Table – Casa Fuego | Restaurant review
A Taste of Argentina in Menton, France
Dear friends,
First things first: let me apologize for my long absence. Life has a way of pulling us in all directions, doesn’t it? Between the whirlwind of daily chaos and the quiet moments that demand reflection, I’ve been away from this space far longer than I intended. But here I am, back at the table, ready to share stories, flavors, and adventures once again.
Last week, I found myself in Menton, that sun-kissed gem on the French Riviera. This time, my destination wasn't Mirazur—Colagreco's temple of haute cuisine. Instead, I ventured to Casa Fuego, his homage to Argentina where embers glow and dishes narrate tales of home.
The Warmth of Casa Fuego
Casa Fuego isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience that feels like stepping into Mauro Colagreco’s living room—if his living room had a parrilla (Argentine grill) at its heart and the kind of ambiance that makes you want to linger for hours. This is where his wonderful team cooks the food he loves to eat with his family, stripped of pretense but not passion.
We began with a marinated beef carpaccio that was a masterful blend of flavors and textures. The beef was paired with Jerusalem artichoke in two delightful forms: a creamy mousse and a crispy, golden delight. This dish reminded me of the rich traditions of Italian cured meats, somewhere between the air-dried elegance of bresaola and the tender simplicity of carne salada. It was a beautiful start to our meal, setting the tone for the feast to come.
Next, we indulged in empanadas. Simple? Sure. But these weren’t your average street-corner turnovers. The dough was golden and flaky, giving way to a filling so rich and perfectly seasoned it felt like a hug from an old friend. Each bite was a reminder that great cooking doesn’t need to shout; it whispers in flavors that linger long after the plate is empty.
The Star of the Show: Picanha
And then came the picanha. Oh, the picanha! Char-grilled to perfection, its crust crackled with smoky goodness while the inside remained tender and juicy—proof that fire is as much an art as it is a science. It wasn't just steak; it was a love letter to beef itself, kissed by flames and seasoned with nothing but respect for the ingredient.
But wait, there's more! This carnivorous masterpiece was paired with a chimichurri sauce that was nothing short of breathtaking. Vibrant, zesty, and packed with herbs, it cut through the richness of the meat like a tango dancer gliding across the floor. And let's not forget the French fries—because Colagreco, bless his soul, knows that even in the world of haute cuisine, sometimes you just need a perfect frite. These weren't just any fries; they were the Platonic ideal of potato perfection—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and seasoned just right.
It was a holy trinity of beef, sauce, and potatoes that would make even the most jaded food critic weep with joy.
A Genius Dessert
Just when I thought we’d reached the pinnacle of our meal, dessert arrived: a mascarpone cream paired with char-grilled clementines. This genius creation took indulgence to another level. The heat from the grill caramelized each clove of clementine beautifully, creating a delightful contrast between the creamy richness of the mascarpone and the sweet-tart brightness of the fruit. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate—one that I won’t soon forget.
A Different Side of Colagreco
What struck me most about Casa Fuego was its contrast to Mirazur. While the latter dazzles with innovation, Casa Fuego comforts with simplicity and soul. It's as if Colagreco is revealing his true self when the chef's whites come off.
There’s something magical about these bistro-style restaurants from world-renowned chefs. They’re like secret windows into their hearts—places where they cook not for critics or awards but for themselves and their loved ones. It’s intimate, personal, and deeply satisfying in a way that transcends fine dining.
Why These Places Matter
In my experience, these "second acts" often rival or surpass their flagship counterparts. They remind us that extraordinary food doesn't always require complexity. Sometimes, all you need is good company, quality ingredients, and a touch of fire.
So here’s my takeaway: if you ever find yourself in Menton (and you should), don’t just aim for Mirazur’s lofty heights. Make time for Casa Fuego. Sit down with an empanada in one hand and a glass of Malbec in the other. Let the warmth of the grill—and Colagreco’s passion—wrap around you like an old blanket on a chilly night.
To my readers: thank you for your patience during my hiatus. I’ve missed sharing these moments with you more than words can say. Here’s to many more meals, stories, and adventures ahead.
Until next time—stay curious and stay hungry!
Salud!