Architectural Roots and Culinary Leadership
Mexico Hospitality Group, once a real estate development firm specializing in commercial centers, residential buildings, hotels, and industrial spaces, has now become a leading force in Mexico’s culinary scene. Founder and CEO, Moisés Ison Zaga, shared his journey with Bistronomie from El Economista on how a partnership with Sonora Grill eventually led to the establishment of Casa Prime, a renowned gastronomic reference in the country.
From Real Estate Rental to a Distinct Brand
In 2009, amidst a real estate market downturn, Mexico Hospitality Group ventured into the restaurant industry by activating the commercial spaces of unsold residential units. One of their first tenants was Sonora Grill, and the relationship extended beyond a contractual agreement. The group participated in designing, constructing, and later operating the restaurant.
“We gradually became more involved. We learned from within how a restaurant functions, which led us to believe we could create our own,” Ison explained.
Years later, facing confusion between Sonora Grill and Sonora Prime, Mexico Hospitality Group made a strategic decision to forge their own path with Casa Prime, a high-end steakhouse concept that combines premium meat, architectural design, and a cohesive sensory experience.
High-Level Steakhouse with Traceability
In a competitive gastronomic landscape, Casa Prime chose a clear recipe: top-tier products, intentional design, and flawless operation. The meat served comes from certified providers with guaranteed traceability and international standards. However, their focus extends beyond the product; they aim to deliver a consistent experience.
“We want every visit to be equally enjoyable. It’s not just about serving good meat; it’s about ensuring that every detail, from lighting and acoustics to service and ambiance, is meticulously curated,” Ison stated.
This holistic approach stems directly from the group’s architectural DNA. Their expertise in constructing spaces gives them an advantage over most restaurant operators, ensuring that Casa Prime’s experience is not left to chance but meticulously designed.
Expansion: New Culinary Concepts Under the Hospitality Umbrella
Currently, Mexico Hospitality Group operates 10 Casa Prime units across various cities. However, their ambitions extend beyond this. The group is developing new culinary concepts with varying price points and specialties, all supported by their quality, design, and hospitality framework.
“We’re forming a genuine hospitality group. We don’t just open restaurants; we design concepts, create atmospheres, and develop brands,” Ison said.
Moreover, the group is expanding its vision into hospitality, with one of their most significant projects being the Hotel Pendry Roma in partnership with Montage, promising to redefine luxury experiences in Mexico City.
Flavor, Business, and Environment
Casa Prime thrives in a challenging economic environment, with inflation, rising operational costs, increasing rents, and staff shortages being daily concerns. Nevertheless, Mexico Hospitality Group remains committed to offering a high-end experience at reasonable prices.
“Inflation has affected us all. However, we believe high-quality meat shouldn’t be unattainable; that’s our biggest challenge,” Ison acknowledged.
A Brand Born Outside the Kitchen
Mexico Hospitality Group doesn’t replicate models; they design from scratch. Their history demonstrates that modern hospitality isn’t confined to a kitchen but is also built through design, strategic vision, and an obsession with experience.
“We don’t want to be just a group of restaurants; we aspire to be a hospitality group with global vision. Casa Prime is merely the beginning,” Ison concluded.
Key Questions and Answers
- What was Mexico Hospitality Group’s original focus? The group initially specialized in designing and developing commercial centers, residential buildings, hotels, and industrial spaces.
- How did Mexico Hospitality Group transition into the culinary industry? The shift occurred when they activated commercial spaces of unsold residential units during the 2009 real estate market downturn, eventually leading to their partnership with Sonora Grill and the establishment of Casa Prime.
- What sets Casa Prime apart from other steakhouses? Casa Prime focuses on top-tier products, intentional design, and a cohesive sensory experience, ensuring every detail is meticulously curated.
- What are Mexico Hospitality Group’s expansion plans? The group aims to develop new culinary concepts with varying price points and specialties while also expanding into the hospitality sector, including their project with Hotel Pendry Roma.
- How does Mexico Hospitality Group maintain quality amidst economic challenges? Despite inflation and rising costs, the group remains committed to offering a high-end experience at reasonable prices, viewing it as their biggest challenge.
