Casa Brava is a renowned Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Bloomington, Indiana, renowned for its authentic and flavorful cuisine. Since its establishment, the restaurant has garnered a loyal following of locals and visitors alike, who appreciate the commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods.
The extensive menu at Casa Brava offers a diverse array of dishes, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences. From classic favorites like tacos and enchiladas to house specialties and vegetarian options, there is something for everyone. The restaurant’s chefs take great pride in their craft, meticulously crafting each dish to perfection and ensuring that every bite is a celebration of Mexican culinary traditions.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur of Mexican cuisine or simply seeking a delightful dining experience, Casa Brava promises to deliver an unforgettable gastronomic journey. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, attentive service, and a menu brimming with mouthwatering options, this establishment has solidified its reputation as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic Mexican flavors in Bloomington.
Appetizers
Casa Brava’s appetizer menu is a delightful introduction to the flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine. The Guacamole Dip, a staple in Mexican gastronomy, is prepared fresh daily with ripe avocados, diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a zesty blend of lime juice and spices. This creamy and flavorful dip is the perfect accompaniment to crispy tortilla chips.
The Bean Dip, a classic Mexican favorite, is a rich and velvety blend of refried pinto beans, seasoned with aromatic spices and topped with melted cheese. This comforting dip is ideal for sharing and pairs perfectly with warm tortilla chips or crispy tostadas.
For those seeking a spicy kick, the spicy Mexican sausage with cheese sauce is a must-try. Succulent chorizo sausage is sautéed with bell peppers and onions, then smothered in a decadent cheese sauce, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
The nachos at Casa Brava are a crowd-pleaser, featuring crispy tortilla chips generously topped with refried beans, melted cheese, jalapeños, pico de gallo, and your choice of protein, such as seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken. These shareable plates are perfect for satisfying cravings and whetting the appetite for the main course.
Quesadillas, a beloved Mexican staple, are another highlight of the appetizer menu. Soft flour tortillas are stuffed with a variety of fillings, including melted cheese, grilled chicken, sautéed vegetables, or savory beef. These handheld delights are grilled to perfection, creating a crispy exterior and a gooey, cheesy interior that is sure to delight.
Tacos
Casa Brava’s Adobo Tacos are a true celebration of authentic Mexican flavors. These tacos feature a variety of fillings, each bursting with a unique blend of spices and textures. The ground beef filling is a savory medley of seasoned beef, onions, and garlic, cooked to perfection. For those who prefer a lighter option, the shredded chicken filling is a delightful combination of tender, juicy chicken seasoned with traditional Mexican spices. Vegetarians can indulge in the flavorful bean filling, made with a blend of refried beans and aromatic spices.
Regardless of your filling preference, each Adobo Taco is topped with a fresh medley of lettuce, diced tomatoes, cool sour cream, and zesty pico de gallo. The pico de gallo, a vibrant mix of chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice, adds a refreshing burst of flavor to each bite. These tacos are served with a side of warm corn tortillas, allowing you to create your own personalized handheld masterpieces.
Burritos
Casa Brava’s burrito selection is a true delight for those craving authentic Mexican flavors wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. These substantial and satisfying burritos are generously filled with your choice of protein, including tender shredded chicken, juicy grilled steak, flavorful beans, or a combination of these delicious fillings. Each burrito is then lovingly stuffed with Mexican rice, refried beans, crisp lettuce, cool sour cream, and a zesty pico de gallo salsa, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors in every bite.
Whether you prefer the rich and savory taste of beef, the lean and succulent chicken, or the hearty and protein-packed beans, Casa Brava’s burritos are sure to satisfy your cravings. These handheld delights are perfect for a quick lunch on the go or a satisfying dinner, offering a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican ingredients wrapped in a convenient and portable package.
Enchiladas
Casa Brava’s enchilada selection is a true testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Mexican flavors. Whether you’re a meat lover or a seafood enthusiast, their enchilada offerings are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
For those who love the classic combination of cheese and spices, the cheese enchiladas are a must-try. Soft corn tortillas are stuffed with a blend of melted cheeses, then smothered in a rich, flavorful sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of spice. These enchiladas are served alongside a generous portion of Mexican rice and refried beans, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.
Chicken enchiladas are another popular choice, featuring tender shredded chicken wrapped in corn tortillas and covered in a tangy green tomatillo sauce. The sauce’s vibrant flavor perfectly complements the juicy chicken, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavors. Like the cheese enchiladas, these are accompanied by rice and beans, ensuring a well-rounded and filling dish.
For those who crave a heartier protein, the beef enchiladas are a must-try. Savory ground beef is seasoned with a blend of traditional Mexican spices and wrapped in corn tortillas, then smothered in a robust red chile sauce. The combination of the tender beef, the slightly spicy sauce, and the soft tortillas creates a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Last but not least, Casa Brava’s shrimp enchiladas are a seafood lover’s dream. Plump, succulent shrimp are wrapped in corn tortillas and covered in a creamy white cheese sauce that perfectly complements the delicate flavor of the shrimp. These enchiladas are a unique and delightful twist on the classic dish, offering a taste of coastal Mexican cuisine right in the heart of Bloomington.
No matter which enchilada you choose, you can expect to be served a generous portion of Mexican rice and refried beans on the side, ensuring a complete and satisfying meal. Each bite is a celebration of authentic Mexican flavors and traditions, expertly crafted by Casa Brava’s skilled chefs.
Chimichangas
Casa Brava’s chimichangas are a true delight for any Mexican food lover. These deep-fried burritos are expertly prepared with your choice of savory fillings, such as shredded chicken, ground beef, or a delicious combination of both. The chimichangas are then fried to a perfect golden-brown crisp, ensuring a satisfying crunch with every bite.
What sets Casa Brava’s chimichangas apart is the rich and creamy white cheese sauce that generously covers each one. This velvety sauce adds a delightful layer of flavor and creaminess, perfectly complementing the crispy exterior and hearty fillings.
Served alongside the chimichangas are traditional accompaniments that elevate the overall dining experience. A bed of fluffy Mexican rice and warm refried beans provides a comforting base for the chimichangas. Crisp shredded lettuce, cool sour cream, and zesty pico de gallo add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, allowing you to customize each bite to your liking.
Whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying meal or a shareable appetizer, Casa Brava’s chimichangas are sure to impress with their authentic flavors and impeccable preparation.
Fajitas
Casa Brava’s fajitas are a true celebration of authentic Mexican flavors. Grilled to perfection and served sizzling hot on an iron skillet, these fajitas are a feast for the senses. Choose from a variety of protein options, including tender chicken, juicy steak, succulent shrimp, or a delectable combination of all three.
Each fajita dish is accompanied by a medley of sautéed bell peppers and onions, adding a burst of freshness and depth to the flavors. Accompanying the fajitas are generous portions of Mexican rice, refried beans, crisp lettuce, cool sour cream, and zesty pico de gallo, allowing you to customize your fajita experience to your liking.
For those seeking a plant-based option, Casa Brava offers a delightful vegetarian fajita dish, showcasing an array of grilled vegetables and plant-based proteins, ensuring that all dietary preferences are catered to with the same level of authenticity and flavor.
House Specialties
Casa Brava’s house specialties are a true testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Mexican flavors and culinary excellence. One of the standout offerings is the grilled ribeye steak, cooked to perfection and served with a flavorful medley of grilled onions and jalapeños. This dish is a carnivore’s delight, with the tender and juicy steak complemented by the smoky aroma and robust flavors of the grilled vegetables.
For seafood lovers, Casa Brava presents a tantalizing array of options that will transport your taste buds to the coastal regions of Mexico. The shrimp chimichangas are a crowd favorite, featuring plump and succulent shrimp wrapped in a crispy fried tortilla and smothered in a rich cheese sauce. Another must-try dish is the Camarones A La Diabla, which features sautéed shrimp in a fiery and flavorful sauce, perfect for those who crave a little heat.
Seafood enthusiasts will also delight in the seafood combination platters, showcasing the freshest catch of the day. These platters typically include a delightful medley of tilapia and shrimp, expertly prepared and served with an array of accompaniments, such as Mexican rice, refried beans, and a tangy pico de gallo salsa.
Vegetarian and Combo Options
Casa Brava’s menu caters to vegetarians and those seeking combo options with a diverse range of choices. The vegetarian combos are a delight for plant-based diners, featuring bean burritos, cheese enchiladas, and vegetable quesadillas. These dishes are carefully crafted with fresh ingredients and bursting with authentic Mexican flavors.
For those seeking a quick and satisfying lunch, Casa Brava offers a selection of lunch specials available from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. These combos provide a perfect balance of flavors and portions, ensuring that you can enjoy a delicious meal without feeling overly indulgent. Whether you’re craving a vegetarian burrito, enchilada, or quesadilla, these lunch specials are sure to satisfy your cravings while accommodating various dietary preferences.
Desserts
No meal at Casa Brava is complete without indulging in one of their decadent traditional Mexican desserts. For those with a sweet tooth, the Mexican custard is a must-try. This creamy and velvety custard is infused with the warm flavors of vanilla and cinnamon, making it a delightful treat to savor after a hearty meal.
Another classic dessert offering is the sweet Mexican dough, also known as buñuelos. These crispy fried dough balls are coated in a delightful cinnamon-sugar mixture, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth in every bite. They’re a beloved traditional treat that will transport you straight to the heart of Mexico.
For a simpler yet equally delightful option, Casa Brava serves flour tortillas with cinnamon and sugar. These warm, freshly made tortillas are generously sprinkled with a blend of cinnamon and sugar, creating a comforting and satisfying dessert that perfectly complements the flavors of the main course.
Whether you’re a fan of creamy custards, crispy fried dough, or simple yet delightful tortilla treats, Casa Brava’s dessert menu offers a delightful way to end your dining experience on a sweet note, celebrating the rich culinary traditions of Mexico.
Beverages
At Casa Brava, the beverage menu is a perfect complement to the flavorful Mexican cuisine. One of the standout offerings is the Mamacita Margarita, a refreshing and potent concoction that combines premium tequila, fresh lime juice, and a hint of orange liqueur. This signature margarita is a customer favorite, served in a salt-rimmed glass and garnished with a lime wedge.
For those seeking a non-alcoholic option, Casa Brava offers a variety of traditional Mexican drinks. The Horchata, a creamy rice-based beverage infused with cinnamon and vanilla, is a beloved choice. Guests can also indulge in the Jamaica, a vibrant hibiscus-infused agua fresca that offers a refreshing and slightly tart flavor.
Beer enthusiasts will appreciate the selection of Mexican and domestic brews available, including popular choices like Corona, Modelo, and Dos Equis. These crisp, refreshing beers pair perfectly with the bold flavors of the menu items.
For a non-alcoholic twist, Casa Brava serves a variety of fruit-based aguas frescas, such as the Tamarindo (tamarind) and Piña (pineapple), which are perfect for quenching thirst and complementing the spicy dishes.
No matter the occasion, Casa Brava’s beverage menu offers something for everyone, ensuring that every dining experience is complete with the perfect accompaniment.
Conclusion
Casa Brava in Bloomington, Indiana, offers an exceptional and authentic Mexican dining experience with its diverse menu offerings. From flavorful appetizers like guacamole dip and quesadillas to hearty main courses such as adobo tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and chimichangas, the restaurant caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
The grilled fajitas, served sizzling on a hot iron skillet, are a must-try, with options like chicken, steak, shrimp, and mixed varieties, accompanied by bell peppers, onions, and all the classic toppings. For those seeking something truly special, the house specialties, including grilled ribeye steaks and seafood dishes like shrimp chimichangas and Camarones A La Diabla, are sure to impress.
Vegetarians will find a satisfying selection of combos, featuring bean burritos, cheese enchiladas, and vegetable quesadillas, while the lunch specials offer a convenient and affordable option for those on the go.
No Mexican dining experience is complete without indulging in traditional desserts like Mexican custard, sweet Mexican dough, or flour tortillas with cinnamon and sugar. And don’t forget to complement your meal with one of Casa Brava’s special drinks, such as the Mamacita margarita.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Bloomington, Casa Brava invites you to experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico. Visit the restaurant to dine in, explore the full menu on their website, place an order for takeout or delivery, or book catering services for your next event. Immerse yourself in the authentic Mexican dining experience that Casa Brava has to offer.