A Historical Setting for Modern Mexican Cuisine
Gran Cantina Filomeno, nestled in a grand Porfirian mansion at Plaza Río de Janeiro, pays homage to classic Mexico while celebrating elegance, history, and fine dining. With over 150 original pieces, including Victorian vitrines, portraits, mirrors, and authentic furniture, this historic house has been meticulously curated to honor its past as a residence of thought, art, and now gastronomy. The various rooms each have their unique atmosphere, blending solemn history with vibrant present-day energy.
Chef Alfredo González’s Renovated Menu
Chef Alfredo González has recently revamped the menu, introducing dishes that capture the freshness of Mexico’s countryside with impeccable technique and a contemporary sensibility. New flavors have arrived, inviting patrons to rediscover the cantina as a sensory experience.
- Chilaquiles with Escamoles: A symphony of textures, this classic dish features habanero crema, calabaza flower, cambray onion, and escamoles fried in butter.
- Sopes de Carpaccio de Res: Surprisingly light yet deep, these bean and green salsa-based sopes are topped with thin slices of marinated beef tenderloin, garlic, serrano, cilantro, and salt scales.
- Poulet Rôti: A vacuum-cooked and roasted chicken breast served with potatoes, mushrooms, and bacon in a light sauce.
- Chocolate Tart: A balanced blend of intensity and delicacy, this semi-bitter chocolate tart with mascarpone and hazelnut crunch is a must-try dessert.
“I wanted to reinterpret popular cuisine with respect, technique, and the seasonal noble ingredients that Mexico provides,” says Chef Alfredo González.
Timeless Classics on the Regular Menu
Beyond the new offerings, Gran Cantina Filomeno boasts true treasures in its regular menu, worth discovering and revisiting.
- Milanesa de Cerdo Filomeno: A thick, juicy cut reminiscent of the best family kitchens, served with an elegant plating.
- Cecina Tartare: Finely curated and picaded cured meat, balancing rustic charm with sophistication.
- Albóndigas con Huevo Soup: A rich broth with soft dumplings.
- Fideo Secco: A comforting, slightly sweet dry noodle dish, perfect as an appetizer or main course.
- Filete de Res a la Mantequilla: Precisely cooked beef tenderloin served with sauces that honor the product without overpowering it.
- Confitado de Cabeza: Tender, golden-skinned meat ideal for those who enjoy long-cooked cuisine.
- Mixiote de Rabo de Toro: A bold, spiced, and enveloping flavor that immediately captivates.
Accompaniments and Desserts
To complement the meal, don’t miss the famous frijoles charros, the fresh and simple Filomeno green salad, or crispy French fries. For dessert, the ate con queso al horno, a classic cantina treat with the refinement that distinguishes Gran Cantina Filomeno, is a delightful sweet-savory contrast.
Exquisite Mexican Cocktails
Gran Cantina Filomeno’s cocktail menu is equally impressive, offering meticulously crafted drinks featuring mezcal, sotol, raicilla, and other gems of Mexican distillation.
