Cocina Real is a culinary gem nestled in the heart of the city, offering an authentic and immersive Mexican dining experience. With a menu that celebrates the rich and diverse flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine, this restaurant has built a well-deserved reputation for delivering a taste of Mexico’s vibrant culinary heritage.
The menu at Cocina Real is a true reflection of the country’s regional diversity, showcasing a wide array of dishes that capture the essence of various states and their unique culinary traditions. From the robust and bold flavors of the north to the tantalizing and complex dishes of the south, each item on the menu is a masterpiece crafted with care and attention to detail.
Whether you’re a connoisseur of Mexican cuisine or simply seeking to explore new flavors, Cocina Real’s menu promises a delightful journey through the diverse and flavorful world of Mexican gastronomy. With an extensive selection of appetizers, soups, salads, tacos, seafood specialties, steaks, and traditional dishes, there is something to satisfy every palate and dietary preference.
Soups and Salads
Cocina Real’s menu boasts a tantalizing selection of soups and salads, each crafted with the utmost care and attention to authentic Mexican flavors. The Homemade Tortilla Soup is a standout dish, featuring a rich and flavorful broth brimming with shredded chicken, crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and a blend of aromatic spices. This comforting soup is a true celebration of Mexican culinary traditions, with every spoonful transporting you to the vibrant streets of Mexico.
For those seeking a refreshing and nutritious option, the Ensalada Real is a must-try. This salad is a vibrant combination of crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tangy cotija cheese, all tossed in a zesty house-made dressing. The addition of crunchy tortilla strips and sliced jalapeños adds a delightful contrast of textures and a subtle kick of heat, making this salad a true delight for the senses.
Tacos: A Celebration of Authentic Mexican Flavors
At Cocina Real, the taco selection is a true testament to the rich culinary heritage of Mexico. From the classic Regular Tacos to the tantalizing Tacos De Pescado, each bite promises an explosion of authentic flavors that transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico.
The Regular Tacos are a beloved staple, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to using only the freshest ingredients. Tender, juicy proteins like carne asada (grilled steak), pollo (chicken), and carnitas (slow-cooked pork) are expertly seasoned and nestled into warm, handmade corn tortillas. These tacos are then adorned with traditional toppings like diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.
For seafood lovers, the Tacos De Pescado are a must-try. Succulent pieces of fresh fish, often caught daily, are lightly battered and fried to perfection, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to a tender, flaky interior. These tacos are then topped with a tangy cabbage slaw, creamy sauce, and a sprinkle of tangy pickled onions, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
What truly sets Cocina Real’s tacos apart is the unwavering dedication to traditional recipes and techniques. Each component is carefully crafted with an attention to detail that honors the rich culinary traditions of Mexico. From the handmade tortillas to the perfectly seasoned proteins and vibrant toppings, every bite is a celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine.
Seafood (Mariscos)
For seafood lovers, Cocina Real’s menu offers an impressive array of dishes that showcase the freshest catches from nearby waters. The Cocina Real Especial is a standout, featuring a generous serving of succulent shrimp, tender calamari, and flaky white fish. This medley of seafood delights is sautéed to perfection with a zesty blend of tomatoes, onions, and a hint of spice, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors.
Another must-try is the Veracruz Plate, a true celebration of coastal cuisine. This dish presents a mouthwatering combination of shrimp, fish, and tender octopus, all cooked in a vibrant tomato-based sauce infused with olives, capers, and a touch of jalapeño for a subtle kick. The freshness of the seafood is evident in every bite, with each piece cooked to the ideal texture, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.
Cocina Real takes great pride in sourcing the highest quality seafood from reputable suppliers, ensuring that every dish is prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail. Whether you prefer the delicate sweetness of shrimp, the firm texture of fish, or the tender chew of octopus, the seafood offerings at Cocina Real are sure to delight your palate and transport you to the vibrant coastal regions of Mexico.
Steaks
Cocina Real’s steak offerings are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to serving authentic Mexican flavors. Among the standout dishes is the Steak Jalisco, a delectable cut of grilled steak that showcases the perfect blend of spices and seasonings. Prepared with a traditional marinade of garlic, cumin, and a hint of citrus, the Steak Jalisco is a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.
The steak is expertly grilled to your desired doneness, ensuring a juicy and tender texture that melts in your mouth. Accompanying the Steak Jalisco is a medley of sautéed vegetables, including bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, adding a vibrant burst of color and freshness to the plate. The dish is further elevated by a side of refried beans and Mexican rice, providing a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Presentation is a key aspect of the Steak Jalisco experience. The steak is artfully arranged on a sizzling hot plate, surrounded by the sautéed vegetables and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. The aroma of the grilled meat and the sizzle of the plate create an inviting and mouthwatering atmosphere, whetting your appetite for the first bite.
Lunch Specials
Cocina Real’s lunch specials offer a delightful fusion of flavors and value, catering to the discerning palates of lunchtime diners. Among the standout options, the Nachos Azteca-L is a true crowd-pleaser. This dish features crispy tortilla chips smothered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, topped with refried beans, pico de gallo, sour cream, and your choice of protein – be it succulent chicken, savory beef, or vegetarian-friendly options.
For those seeking a more substantial meal, the Fajitas-L are a must-try. Sizzling on a hot skillet, tender strips of marinated steak or chicken are accompanied by sautéed bell peppers and onions, exuding an irresistible aroma. Served alongside warm tortillas, fresh guacamole, sour cream, and a vibrant salsa, these fajitas are a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Cocina Real’s lunch specials are not only a delight for the senses but also a testament to their commitment to value and variety. Each dish is carefully crafted to provide a satisfying and affordable dining experience, ensuring that lunchtime diners can indulge in the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine without breaking the bank.
Other Dishes
At Cocina Real, the menu extends beyond the familiar favorites, offering unique and authentic dishes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of Mexico. One such standout is the Chiles Rellenos De Espinaca Y Camaron-D, a delightful combination of roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of spinach, shrimp, and melted cheese.
This dish exemplifies the traditional preparation methods that have been passed down through generations. The poblano peppers are carefully roasted over an open flame, charring the skin to impart a smoky flavor before being peeled and stuffed with the flavorful filling. The shrimp are sautéed with garlic, onions, and a blend of Mexican spices, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that complements the creamy spinach and melted cheese.
Another must-try dish is the Chilaquiles-D, a beloved Mexican breakfast or brunch offering that showcases the ingenuity of using leftover tortillas. Crispy tortilla chips are smothered in a tangy salsa verde or salsa roja, topped with crumbled queso fresco, diced onions, and a dollop of crema. This dish can be customized with the addition of shredded chicken or eggs, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.
The preparation of Chilaquiles-D follows a time-honored tradition, with the tortilla chips being carefully fried to achieve the perfect crunch and then simmered in the flavorful salsa until they absorb the rich essence of the sauce. The result is a comforting and flavorful dish that celebrates the resourcefulness of Mexican cuisine and the art of transforming humble ingredients into something truly extraordinary.
Dietary Options
At Cocina Real, we understand the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs and preferences. Our menu offers a wide range of options to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and those following a gluten-free diet.
For our vegetarian and vegan guests, we have a dedicated section featuring delectable meatless dishes. The Chiles Rellenos De Espinaca Y Camaron-D is a standout option, where roasted poblano peppers are stuffed with a savory blend of spinach and mushrooms, topped with a flavorful tomato sauce. Vegans can also delight in our Fajitas De Verduras, a sizzling plate of grilled vegetables served with warm tortillas, guacamole, and pico de gallo.
Gluten-free diners can rest assured that many of our dishes are naturally gluten-free or can be modified to suit their dietary requirements. Our knowledgeable staff is happy to guide you through the menu and recommend suitable options. Popular gluten-free choices include our Carne Asada, a juicy grilled steak served with refried beans and fresh avocado slices, and the Cocina Real Especial, a seafood platter featuring shrimp, scallops, and fish cooked to perfection.
We take pride in using fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods to ensure that every dish, regardless of dietary restrictions, is bursting with authentic Mexican flavors. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or following a gluten-free diet, Cocina Real has something delicious in store for you.
Drinks and Desserts
At Cocina Real, the culinary experience is not complete without indulging in their tantalizing selection of beverages and desserts. The drink menu offers a diverse array of options to complement the flavorful dishes, ranging from refreshing aguas frescas to classic Mexican cocktails.
One of the highlights is the Horchata, a traditional rice-based beverage infused with cinnamon and vanilla, providing a sweet and creamy accompaniment to any meal. For those seeking a more invigorating option, the Tamarindo Agua Fresca offers a tangy and refreshing twist with its vibrant tamarind flavor.
Cocina Real also boasts an impressive selection of tequilas and mezcals, allowing diners to explore the diverse flavors and nuances of these iconic Mexican spirits. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to guide you through the various options and recommend the perfect pairing for your meal.
No Mexican dining experience would be complete without indulging in the decadent desserts. The Flan, a creamy custard with a caramelized top, is a classic favorite that showcases the rich flavors of traditional Mexican sweets. For those with a more adventurous palate, the Pastel de Tres Leches, a sponge cake soaked in three types of milk, offers a delightfully moist and indulgent treat.
Whether you’re seeking a refreshing beverage to beat the heat or a sweet finale to cap off your dining experience, Cocina Real’s drink and dessert offerings are sure to delight and transport you to the heart of Mexican culinary traditions.
Conclusion
Cocina Real’s menu is a true celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine, offering a diverse array of dishes that transport diners on a flavorful journey through the rich culinary traditions of Mexico. From the comforting warmth of homemade tortilla soup to the tantalizing array of tacos bursting with fresh ingredients, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
The seafood selection is a particular highlight, showcasing the freshest catches prepared with time-honored techniques that bring out the natural flavors of the ocean. Whether you opt for the Cocina Real Especial or the Veracruz Plate, you’ll be treated to a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
For meat lovers, the steaks are a must-try, with the Steak Jalisco standing out as a true masterpiece. Perfectly grilled and accompanied by a medley of flavorful sides, it’s a dish that will satisfy even the most discerning palate.
Beyond the classics, Cocina Real’s menu also offers a delightful array of unique and traditional dishes, such as the Chiles Rellenos De Espinaca Y Camaron-D and Chilaquiles-D, allowing you to explore the depth and diversity of Mexican cuisine.
With its warm ambiance, friendly service, and commitment to using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, Cocina Real invites you to immerse yourself in an unforgettable dining experience. So, whether you’re a lifelong fan of Mexican cuisine or a curious newcomer, this is your chance to savor the authentic flavors that have made Cocina Real a beloved destination for food lovers near and far.