Casa Vallarta Mexican Restaurant on the Northside of Eau Claire offers a vibrant culinary experience deeply rooted in authentic Mexican flavors. Known for its warm atmosphere and welcoming service, this neighborhood gem has become a favorite destination for both locals and visitors craving genuine Mexican cuisine.
The menu is a celebration of traditional recipes infused with fresh ingredients, featuring an array of dishes that range from sizzling fajitas to handcrafted tacos and creamy guacamoles. Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch or a festive dinner, Casa Vallarta provides an inviting setting that complements each flavorful bite.
Every dish at Casa Vallarta tells a story of Mexican heritage, blending bold spices and fresh produce to create memorable meals. Their menu carefully balances classic favorites with inventive options, catering to diverse palates and dietary preferences.
The Northside location enhances the neighborhood vibe, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings, date nights, or simply enjoying a comforting meal after a busy day. Beyond food, the restaurant prides itself on creating an atmosphere that feels like a home away from home, where every guest is treated with genuine hospitality.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at Casa Vallarta sets the tone for a delightful dining experience. These starters are designed to awaken the palate with bold, fresh flavors and traditional Mexican ingredients.
From crispy chips with zesty salsas to savory stuffed jalapeños, the menu offers a variety of options that perfectly complement the main courses.
One of the standout items is the freshly made guacamole, prepared tableside for an interactive touch. The guacamole combines ripe avocados, tangy lime, and finely diced onions and tomatoes, creating a creamy and vibrant dip.
Alongside the guacamole, the restaurant offers an assortment of salsas—ranging from mild to fiery—allowing guests to customize their spice experience.
Other popular starters include the crispy empanadas filled with seasoned meats and cheeses, as well as the classic queso fundido, a melted cheese dip infused with chorizo or mushrooms. These dishes provide a rich introduction to Mexican cuisine and pair wonderfully with a cold cerveza or a refreshing margarita.
- Guacamole – Fresh avocado, lime, onion, tomato
- Empanadas – Crispy pastry filled with spiced meat or cheese
- Queso Fundido – Melted cheese with chorizo or mushrooms
- Chips & Salsa – House-made tortilla chips with assorted salsas
“A perfect start to any meal, our appetizers bring the authentic taste of Mexico right to your table.” – Casa Vallarta Chef
Signature Entrees
The heart of Casa Vallarta’s menu lies in its signature entrees, which showcase the rich diversity of Mexican culinary traditions. Each entree is crafted with attention to detail, combining fresh ingredients with time-honored cooking techniques.
These dishes offer a satisfying balance of protein, spices, and vibrant accompaniments.
Among the favorites is the Carne Asada, featuring tender, marinated steak grilled to perfection and served with rice, beans, and warm tortillas. The marination process infuses the meat with citrus and smoky flavors, making it a hearty and flavorful choice.
For those who prefer chicken, the Pollo Mole offers a tantalizing blend of roasted chicken bathed in a rich, velvety mole sauce, made from a complex mixture of chilies, chocolate, and spices.
Vegetarian options also shine in this section, with dishes like the Vegetales al Pastor, a medley of grilled vegetables seasoned with traditional Mexican spices and served with a side of refried beans.
These entrees demonstrate the restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity and flavor diversity.
Dish | Main Ingredient | Accompaniments |
Carne Asada | Grilled Steak | Rice, Beans, Tortillas |
Pollo Mole | Roasted Chicken | Mole Sauce, Rice, Vegetables |
Vegetales al Pastor | Grilled Vegetables | Refried Beans, Rice |
Tacos and Tortas
Tacos and tortas at Casa Vallarta are crafted with authentic Mexican bread and tortillas, bringing an essential street food experience to the Northside of Eau Claire. These handheld delights offer a perfect combination of textures and bold flavors, whether you prefer soft corn tortillas or toasted sandwich rolls.
The taco selection ranges from classic options like al pastor pork and carnitas to more adventurous fillings such as lengua (beef tongue) and barbacoa (slow-cooked beef). Each taco is garnished with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime, creating a harmonious blend of freshness and spice.
Tortas, Mexican-style sandwiches, are loaded with generous portions of meat, cheese, and vegetables, served on a crusty bolillo roll.
These items are perfect for a quick bite or a casual meal and pair wonderfully with the restaurant’s homemade salsas and pickled jalapeños. The menu also offers customizable options, allowing guests to select their preferred protein, toppings, and heat level.
- Al Pastor Tacos – Marinated pork with pineapple
- Carnitas Tacos – Slow-cooked shredded pork
- Lengua Tacos – Tender beef tongue
- Torta de Milanesa – Breaded chicken sandwich with avocado
“Our tacos are a tribute to Mexico’s rich street food culture, made fresh with every bite.” – Casa Vallarta Owner
Burritos and Bowls
For those seeking a hearty and satisfying meal, Casa Vallarta’s burritos and bowls provide a wholesome option packed with flavor and nutrients. These dishes combine staple Mexican ingredients in generous portions, making them ideal for lunch or dinner.
The burritos are wrapped tightly in warm flour tortillas and stuffed with rice, beans, cheese, and your choice of meat or vegetables. Popular fillings include grilled chicken, carne asada, and sautéed vegetables, all seasoned with traditional spices.
Each burrito is served with a side of salsa and sour cream to enhance the flavor profile.
Bowls offer a deconstructed alternative, allowing diners to enjoy the same components without the tortilla. This option is especially popular with those seeking lighter or gluten-free choices.
Bowls are layered with fresh lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole, and a protein of your choice, making them both nutritious and delicious.
Option | Key Ingredients | Portion Size |
Burrito | Rice, Beans, Cheese, Meat/Vegetables | Large, Handheld |
Bowl | Lettuce, Pico de Gallo, Guacamole, Protein | Medium, Open Plate |
Customization Options
- Protein Choices: Chicken, Beef, Pork, Vegetarian
- Extras: Sour Cream, Jalapeños, Extra Cheese
- Spice Levels: Mild, Medium, Hot
Seafood Specialties
Casa Vallarta’s seafood offerings bring a coastal flair to the menu, highlighting fresh and flavorful dishes inspired by Mexico’s vast shorelines. These specialties are prepared with care, using locally sourced fish and shellfish whenever possible.
One of the most popular dishes is the Camarones a la Diabla, featuring shrimp cooked in a spicy red chili sauce that balances heat and smokiness with a hint of sweetness. The dish is served with rice and a crisp salad, making it a well-rounded meal.
Another favorite is the Pescado Veracruzano, a tender white fish simmered in a tomato-based sauce with olives, capers, and fresh herbs, evoking the flavors of Veracruz.
These seafood plates highlight the vibrant tastes of coastal Mexico and are often paired with light, refreshing beverages to complement the spices. The menu also includes fish tacos, offering a lighter yet satisfying option for seafood lovers.
- Camarones a la Diabla – Spicy shrimp in chili sauce
- Pescado Veracruzano – Fish in tomato, olive, and caper sauce
- Fish Tacos – Grilled or fried fish with fresh toppings
“Our seafood dishes celebrate the rich traditions of Mexico’s coastal regions, bringing freshness and spice to every plate.” – Head Chef
Desserts and Sweet Treats
To conclude the meal on a sweet note, Casa Vallarta offers a selection of traditional Mexican desserts that provide comforting and indulgent flavors. These treats are crafted in-house, using authentic recipes passed down through generations.
The Churros are a crowd favorite, featuring crisp, cinnamon-sugar coated fried dough served with a side of rich chocolate dipping sauce. Another classic is the Flan, a creamy caramel custard that melts in your mouth and offers a subtle sweetness.
For those who enjoy fruity desserts, the Pastel de Tres Leches is a moist sponge cake soaked in three types of milk, topped with whipped cream and fresh berries.
These desserts perfectly complement the bold and savory flavors of the main courses, providing a balanced finish. They are ideal for sharing or enjoying as a personal indulgence after a satisfying meal.
- Churros – Fried dough with cinnamon sugar and chocolate sauce
- Flan – Creamy caramel custard
- Pastel de Tres Leches – Three-milk soaked sponge cake
Dessert | Main Flavor | Typical Serving |
Churros | Cinnamon and Sugar | 4-5 pieces with chocolate sauce |
Flan | Caramel | Individual custard cup |
Pastel de Tres Leches | Milk and Berries | Slice of cake |
Beverages and Cocktails
Complementing the rich flavors of the menu, Casa Vallarta offers an extensive beverage selection that ranges from traditional Mexican drinks to creative cocktails. This variety caters to all tastes, whether guests prefer a refreshing non-alcoholic option or a handcrafted margarita.
The beverage menu includes classics such as horchata, a sweet rice milk drink flavored with cinnamon, and tamarindo, a tangy tamarind juice. For those who enjoy alcoholic beverages, the cocktail menu features expertly made margaritas with fresh lime juice and premium tequila.
Other popular choices include micheladas, beer cocktails mixed with lime and spices, and a curated selection of domestic and imported beers.
Non-alcoholic options are thoughtfully prepared to provide refreshing and authentic flavors without the buzz. These drinks enhance the dining experience by balancing the spicy and savory notes of the food.
- Horchata – Sweet cinnamon rice milk
- Tamarindo – Tangy tamarind juice
- Margaritas – Classic lime, strawberry, or mango
- Micheladas – Beer with lime and spice
“Our drinks menu is crafted to reflect the vibrant culture of Mexico, offering both traditional and inventive options to quench every thirst.” – Beverage Manager
Conclusion
Casa Vallarta Mexican Restaurant on Eau Claire’s Northside is more than just a place to eat; it’s a celebration of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage. The menu offers an impressive variety of dishes that embrace authentic flavors while catering to modern tastes and dietary preferences.
From the zesty appetizers and hearty entrees to the indulgent desserts and refreshing beverages, every item is thoughtfully prepared to provide a memorable dining experience.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and warm hospitality creates an inviting environment that draws guests back time and again. Whether you’re craving spicy tacos, savory seafood, or a sweet finish, Casa Vallarta provides a satisfying option for every occasion.
Its diverse menu and friendly atmosphere make it a standout destination for anyone in Eau Claire seeking the true taste of Mexico close to home.