Casa Romero

Located in the midst of Gloucester Street, Case Romero offers authentic Mexican food, from ensaladas to Antojitos, tacos and seafood specialties. A number of vegetarian dishes are also available.

When to Go: Despite its clandestine location, the restaurant does a strong weekend business (reservations are essential).

Know Before You Go: Look for L'Espalier: Hard-to-spot Casa Romero is located behind this venerable French establishment.

Its location down a "little alley" may be "hard to find", but "what a delight" this Back Bay Mexican "staple" is, with an "excellent variety" of "high-end" fare backed by "fantastic sangria and margaritas"; "intimate", "friendly" atmospherics and a "gem" of a patio "make you feel like you're in the heart of Mexico", so regulars are always "looking forward" to another visit.

Half a block and a mile of pretentiousness away from Newbury Street, Casa Romero emanates the aura of a supper club in Mexico City. Talavera tiles and potted flowers make for a room that is at once exuberant and elegant; seats in the shady courtyard are a summertime treat. For nearly 40 years, chef-owner Leo Romero has overseen a small and focused menu of traditional Mexican specialties that is...

A refuge from the busy Back Bay, Casa Romero feels like a secret club. The tiled floor, rustic wood furnishings, dim lighting, and clay pots lend an authentic feel -- you're definitely not at the local Tex-Mex counter. The food is excellent, with generous portions of spicy-hot and milder dishes; the friendly staff will help you navigate the menu. To start, try a refreshing cactus-and-tomato...

The Scene
More than 30 years ago, Leo Romero decided against following in his family's political footsteps and opened this gem of a restaurant in an alleyway between Newbury Street and...

For standout Mexican cuisine, this labor of love lures devoted diners down a nondescript alley in the Back Bay