CASA FRIDA RESTAURANT REVIEW BY SUSAN G LAZARUS

We were recommended to visit to this restaurant, opened in 2012 and hailed to have reasonably priced, authentic Mexican cuisine. Casa Frida is in an unassuming strip mall north of Commercial Boulevard on Federal Highway in Fort Lauderdale. The restaurant itself is charming small and cozy with lively conversation and music in the background. The owner tells you the specials, although he is distracted as he watches everything going on in the restaurant at the same time he is talking and seems to have some difficulty multitasking.

The food had varied reviews from the party of six we were with. Personally, I liked the house margarita with orange juice and lime flavors, all very refreshing in flavor. They made a point to tell us there is no packaged flavoring in these cocktails. Others in our party preferred a traditional Margarita, preservatives and all. In terms of the food, the Guacamole and black bean appetizer (two separate dishes) were very good. For entrees, several had the fresh seafood sampler with a tomato based sauce. Mostly yummy, but the small scallops had a bland taste and did not add to the dishes’ appeal. The fish special with mole sauce was excellent along with mashed potato and corn, Mexican style. One at our table seemed frustrated that the tuna portion was served mostly raw and while that would please some, he wanted it cooked through and through, sending it back three times. Our taco lover was not impressed as he felt it was a bland presentation and not to par with other casual Mexican restaurants.

Another point worth noting is once we were almost finished with our meal, there was an awareness that they wanted the table for the next party. If you are expecting to dawdle over your table conversation, this may not be encouraged. This comment is not to take away from the pleasant waitress and general wait staff. Thus, we were mixed and while it appears some of the dishes were very good, others could use better attention. We would be willing to try it, keeping in mind reservations are a must.

Approximate cost, for dinner and one cocktail each, the bill was $60.00 per couple. Casa Frida is at 5441 N Federal Highway, Ft Lauderdale, FL casafridamexicancuisine.com