Casa Blanca is no doubt a go-to spot for birthdays. Located in the heart of Fort Myers, this place has quickly earned a reputation for its high energy, inspired by Tulum Beach, Mexico. If you’re searching for a mini-vacation, beach-chic decor, dim lighting, and upbeat music all wrapped up in one, Casa Blanca is the place.
From the moment you walk in, desserts are lined up at the counter waiting to be devoured, warm candles greet you as you make your way through and perfectly illuminated signs grace the walls. It’s practically designed to enhance your social media pictures, with murals as your backdrop, birthday celebrations one after the other, group dinners and anyone wanting to elevate their night out.
Now, once you settle into the ambiance, the menu seals the deal. Casa Blanca blends modern Mexican flavors with upscale presentation. They offer a selection of dishes that feel comfortable, but sublime. Just for an idea, some appetizers they have are ceviche tropical, sweet plantains, birria dumplings and navarit oysters. Think citrusy, rich, brightly plated food.
I myself indulged in trying the sweet plantains. What begins as a firm, starchy fruit, such as a banana, soon relaxes softly under heat. The brown caramelized outside balances the sweet inside, satisfyingly tender.
Story continues below advertisement
The drink menu is just as intentional, famous for its fine tequila and tasting flights. With options ranging from handcrafted cocktails, wine and over 30 different tequila drinks. Putting into consideration the length of Casa Blanca’s menus, this drink menu alone is six pages long.
If you’re over 21 and seeking something a bit more refined than the usual college-night choices, Casa Blanca’s tequila taste-testing flight is an unexpectedly enjoyable experience. Instead of taking shots, you’re exploring a tasting that highlights the differences between blanco, añejo and reposado tequilas. The four tiny glasses will come in an actual plane-looking serving plate, with garnishes placed upon them.
Sipping them slowly, emphasis on sipping, you’ll start to pick up on subtle notes and a touch of each flavor like strawberry, piña colada and passionfruit.
After exploring the drink menu, my main course I had chosen was the quesadilla ranchera, now listen, I understand it’s a basic choice. But, it’s the perfect balance between comfort food and knowing I’ll definitely like it. The crispy outside was well balanced with the softly melted cheese on the inside. Usually, restaurants will lessen the chicken on the inside and load up on the cheese. Casa Blanca gave a healthy amount of chicken, with extra onions and guacamole on the side. Alongside the creamy, not too salty guacamole, were lettuce, tomatoes and queso drizzled across everything.
The atmosphere is vibrant, the menu is lengthy and it feels like a non-stop party. It is on the pricier side, so it may be more of a special occasion rather than a typical Tuesday meal. And while the service was warm and attentive throughout the meal, it took a little bit to get the ball rolling toward the end. Regardless, the food and drinks hold their own.
Casa Blanca may come with a higher price tag and a slower finish, but for a polished, photo-ready restaurant that’s close to campus, it may be worth it to you. Don’t forget to try one of Casa Blanca’s desserts, my personal favorite is the caramel flan!