Casa Latina

Casa Latina Restaurant Review:

Balancing case after case of authentic Latin sweets --- wedding cookies, flans, cakes, breads, pastries --- this inviting cafe's savory fare offers just as much temptation. Rich, sultry sauces, good ingredients and tender, slow-cooked meats are the reason burritos, tacos and other platos shine. Standouts include the carnitas, barbacoa (slow-cooked beef with mild chile guajillo) and smoky carne asada. Vegetarians can ask for meat-free tamales, burritos and tortas. In Berkeley fashion, the café showcases organic espresso drinks and herbal teas along with Mexican hot chocolate and horchata, hibiscus and strawberry aguas frescas. Sit inside or out at about six tables with friendly and fast counter service. Regulars at the Albatross Pub across the street often stop here first for fuel for a long night of pool or pub quizzing.