In the small historic town of San Juan Bautista, California, there is a charming, unique restaurant called La Casa Rosa (or The Pink House). Opened in 1935, it is famous for its luncheons featuring the Old California Casserole, from a Mexican recipe passed down from General Vallejo’s daughter and still offered on the menu, which only consists of two casseroles (the “old” and the “new”) plus one or two souffles (chicken and seafood when available). Another specialty is the house apéritif called “Ash Blonde”, made from a local winery. They also offer a condiment “bar” with a variety of jams and chutneys, all made in-house. It really takes you back to an older, simpler time to sit in the dining room filled with antiques and linger over a meal that is truly California cuisine, but one that existed before anyone used that term.
Delicious apéritif called Ash Blonde, which is a blend of local sweet and dry vermouth.
Piano bar of homemade jams and chutneys to enjoy with your meal.
Fresh crisp salad made with local lettuces with the house French vinaigrette dressing and locally made rolls.
Old California Casserole, baked in single-serving dishes and turned out table-side it’s a savory blend of cornbread with red meat sauce and cheddar cheese. The “new” version consists of cornbread, red meat sauce, jack cheese, and green chilis.
La Casa Rosa dining room
From the AAA Southwestern Tour Book 1959-60:
An inviting dining room serving luncheons only. Well-prepared dishes with own condiments a specialty.
La Casa Rosa
107 3rd St, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045
(831) 623-4563
Luncheon Wed-Mon 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM – closed Tuesdays
Gift shop open daily 10 AM – 5 PM.
La Casa Rosa website
