Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila

Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila,

1 Anderson Circle, St. Augustine, 904-295-3847

By Irene Merenda

I had heard many excellent reviews from friends regarding the recently opened Casa Reina so I had to try it for myself.

Casa Reina is located in the old American Legion building downtown on the bay. Two of the owners also own Harry’s, next door, and Salt Life, on the island. I had heard that, because of its’ popularity, there can sometimes be a long wait to be seated. A friend and I chose to dine shortly after the restaurant opened at 4:00 on a Thursday afternoon, and we were seated immediately on the upstairs deck overlooking the Bridge of Lions and the river. After climbing a very long flight of stairs with a very painful knee, we noticed there was an elevator, which I wished had been mentioned by the hostess. The view was lovely, as was our server, Deandra, who was friendly, efficient and very knowledgeable about the extensive list of tequila choices. I had no idea that being a connoisseur of tequila was even a “thing” which it clearly is at Casa Reina!

The menu of different tequilas and specialty drinks was overwhelming, so we narrowed it down from a smaller list of Deandra’s recommendations. My friend chose the Casamigos Anejo tequila which came with a giant ice cube “to keep it cold, but not water down the flavor of the tequila” ($13) and I chose the CASA REINA Margarita ($12.99). Neither disappointed!

Because we heard that the portions were large, we decided to skip an appetizer, although there were many enticing options which ranged in price from chips and salsa ($4.49) to Nachos Reina Style ($14.99).

My friend ordered Baja Grouper Tacos ($13.99), which were 2 taco shells filled to the brim with large portions of beer battered grouper, jalapeno sauce and a citrus cole slaw. The fish was moist and the coating was crispy and delicious. The slaw had a nice “kick” of jalapeno spice, but wasn’t so much as to be painful or overwhelm the other wonderful flavors!

My entree, the Tequila Lime Grouper ($24.99) came with black beans, white rice and a huge dollop of fresh guacamole, that was better than I’ve ever had. The fresh, moist delicious fish was topped with a creamy lime and cilantro sauce. The portions of fish and sides were so large, I couldn’t finish them, although I wanted to very badly! Needless and sadly to say, we had no room for dessert which could have been Flan de Queso, Churros or Tres Leches.