Casafuego Eatery and Bar

About Casafuego Eatery and Bar

Casafuego Eatery and Bar, located in the heart of Balclutha, South Otago, offers a unique Euro/Mexican dining experience. Since opening in November 2018, Chef and owner Andrew Hayward-Swain, along with his team, has been serving quality interpretations of classic Mexican dishes while daring into new ventures with a European twist, using the best locally grown produce. The restaurant occupies a historical 1923 building, formerly a local fire service, which was re-established by the team in 2017. Casafuego, meaning "House of Fire" in Spanish, pays tribute to its spicy cuisine and its building's heritage. The interior reflects Andrew’s hip, creative take on Mexican decor, blended with local Fire and Emergency Service memorabilia. It features a multi-room setup, a bar offering specially made cocktails, and a pool table during winter months, providing a versatile space for casual meet-ups, family gatherings, or larger functions across its three dining rooms.

Casafuego Balclutha: A Fiery Fusion of Euro-Mexican Cuisine in South Otago

Nestled in the picturesque town of Balclutha, South Otago, Casafuego Eatery and Bar stands as a vibrant beacon of Euro-Mexican culinary innovation. Since its doors opened in November 2018, this eatery has captivated locals and visitors alike with its hearty dishes, warm atmosphere, and unique fusion of flavors.

At the helm is Chef and owner Andrew Hayward-Swain, whose vision, alongside Chef Victor Toledo and their dedicated team, has brought a fresh perspective to dining in the region. Their philosophy centers on crafting quality interpretations of classic Mexican dishes while boldly venturing into new culinary territories with a European twist. This commitment to fresh, vibrant food is underpinned by their use of the best locally grown produce, ensuring every dish is both delicious and reflective of the region’s bounty.

A Building with a Story, A Name with Meaning

Casafuego is more than just a restaurant; it's a testament to history and passion. The eatery is housed within a historical building at 2 George Street, which dates back to 1923 and once served as the local fire station. After a period of disuse, Andrew and his team undertook a significant re-establishment project in 2017, breathing new life into its historic bones. The name 'Casafuego' itself, translating from Spanish as 'House of Fire,' is a clever nod to both the building's fiery past and the spicy, energetic spirit of its cuisine.

The interior design reflects this unique blend of heritage and contemporary flair. Andrew’s hip and creative twist on Mexican decor creates an inviting and lively ambiance, while thoughtful tributes to the local Fire and Emergency Service honor the building's former life. This multi-room setup caters to various experiences, from intimate dinners to lively group gatherings, accommodating up to 65 guests across its three dining rooms for functions of all types.

The Casafuego Experience: Food, Drink, and Fun

The menu at Casafuego is a delightful journey through "Mexi-Kiwi fusion," offering something for every palate. From tantalizing snacks like grilled corn Pinchos and Papas (fried baby potatoes with chorizo) to a diverse selection of Tacos, including Pulled Pork, Beef Brisket, and a unique Confit Duck option, guests are spoilt for choice. Heartier mains feature the classic Chilli Con Carne, succulent Pork Ribs with a smokey BBQ glaze, and hearty Burritos and Quesadillas with various fillings.

The experience extends beyond the food. The fully stocked bar boasts a range of specially made cocktails, with Pineapple Margaritas and Sangria being popular choices, perfect for unwinding after a long day. During the winter months, the addition of a pool table adds another layer of casual entertainment, making Casafuego an ideal spot for colleagues, family, or friends to gather.

As the gateway to the stunning Catlins region, Casafuego Eatery and Bar offers a memorable dining destination. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, local produce shines, and every meal is an celebration of flavor and community.

Signature items

• Chilli Con Carne
• Pork Ribs
• Tacos
• Pollo Asado
• Pineapple Margaritas
• Churros

Menu

Mains

• Chilli Con Carne — Slow cooked chilli beef, melted cheese, rice, sour cream, corn chips.
• Pork Ribs — Half or full rack, smokey BBQ glaze, slaw, crispy fries.
• Beef Brisket — Slow cooked beef brisket, salsa verde, black beans, rice, corn chips.
• Chicken Enchilada — Corn tortillas filled with chilli chicken, smothered in salsa roja, melted cheese, sour cream, rice, slaw.
• Burrito — Large flour tortilla with rice, beans, salsa, cheese, lettuce, sour cream, pico de gallo. Choice of Pulled Pork, Beef Brisket, Chilli Chicken, or Bean & Corn.
• Quesadillas — Flour tortillas with melted cheese. Choice of Pulled Pork, Beef Brisket, Chilli Chicken, or Bean & Corn, served with pico de gallo, sour cream.
• Chicken Caesar Salad — Cos lettuce, crispy bacon, croutons, parmesan, classic caesar dressing, grilled chicken.

Sides

• Rice
• Beans
• Salsa
• Sour Cream
• Guacamole
• Corn Chips
• Fried Eggs
• Pico de Gallo

Snack

• Pinchos — Grilled corn skewers, jalapeno mayo, cilantro, chipotle powder.
• Frijoles — Slow cooked black beans, avocado, pico de gallo, corn chips.
• Elotes — Roasted corn off the cob, chipotle crema, feta, cilantro.
• Papas — Fried baby potatoes, chipotle crema, salsa roja, chorizo.
• Patatas — Crispy fries, rosemary salt, aioli.
• Pollo Asado — Mexican spiced grilled chicken thigh, pickled red onion, salsa verde.
• Beef & Pork Meatballs — Slow cooked in smoky salsa roja, crispy potato.

Tacos

• Pulled Pork Taco — Served with soft corn tortillas, salsa verde, salsa roja, pico de gallo, cilantro, chipotle mayo, pickled red onion.
• Beef Brisket Taco — Served with soft corn tortillas, salsa verde, salsa roja, pico de gallo, cilantro, chipotle mayo, pickled red onion.
• Fish Taco — Battered Hoki, slaw, served with soft corn tortillas, salsa verde, salsa roja, pico de gallo, cilantro, chipotle mayo, pickled red onion.
• Bean & Corn Taco — Black bean & corn salsa, served with soft corn tortillas, salsa verde, salsa roja, pico de gallo, cilantro, chipotle mayo, pickled red onion.
• Duck Taco — Confit duck leg, salsa macha, served with soft corn tortillas, salsa verde, salsa roja, pico de gallo, cilantro, chipotle mayo, pickled red onion.
• Lamb Barbacoa Taco — Slow cooked lamb, salsa borracaha, served with soft corn tortillas, salsa verde, salsa roja, pico de gallo, cilantro, chipotle mayo, pickled red onion.
• Chilli Chicken Taco — Spicy chicken, queso fresco, served with soft corn tortillas, salsa verde, salsa roja, pico de gallo, cilantro, chipotle mayo, pickled red onion.

Desserts

• Churros — Spanish doughnuts with chocolate sauce.
• Cheesecake — Ask server for today's flavor.
• Chocolate Brownie — Warm brownie, vanilla ice cream.

Frequently asked questions

What type of cuisine does Casafuego Eatery and Bar offer?

Casafuego specializes in Euro/Mexican cuisine, offering a unique 'Mexi-Kiwi fusion' with classic Mexican dishes and European twists, utilizing locally grown produce.

What are Casafuego's operating hours?

Casafuego is open Tuesday to Saturday from 12pm to 9pm, and Sunday from 12pm to 8:30pm. They are closed on Mondays and all public holidays.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Reservations are recommended, especially on quieter nights which may result in earlier closing times. For reservations within 24 hours, it is advised to phone ahead for confirmation.

Where is Casafuego Eatery and Bar located?

Casafuego is located at 2 George Street, Balclutha, Otago, NZ 9230, in the heart of Balclutha, South Otago, near the gateway to the Catlins.

Can Casafuego accommodate private functions?

Yes, Casafuego's multi-room restaurant features three dining rooms that can seat up to 65 guests, making it suitable for all types of functions and food requirements. They are also closed for private functions.

What is the history behind the name Casafuego?

The name 'Casafuego' is derived from the Spanish translation meaning 'House of Fire,' a playful nod to the building's past as a local fire service station and the spicy nature of its cuisine.

Tips

• {"body":"To ensure you get a table, especially during peak times or for larger groups, it's recommended to make a reservation. For same-day bookings, call ahead for confirmation.","title":"Make a Reservation"}
• {"body":"Keep an eye out for potential weekly specials like 'Taco Tuesday' or 'Wing Wednesday' which might be offered, based on past promotions and menu highlights.","title":"Check for Specials"}
• {"body":"Take advantage of their bar, which offers specially made cocktails like Pineapple Margaritas and Sangria. During winter, there's even a pool table for some extra entertainment.","title":"Enjoy the Bar Area"}
• {"body":"Don't stick to just traditional Mexican; Casafuego is known for its Euro/Mexican fusion. Be adventurous and try dishes that blend these two culinary worlds.","title":"Explore the Fusion"}
• {"body":"Casafuego is closed on all public holidays. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.","title":"Note Holiday Closures"}

Good to know

• {"wifi":"No information provided.","family":"Family-friendly atmosphere for casual meet-ups.","dietary":"No information provided.","parking":"No information provided.","payments":"No information provided.","accessibility":"No information provided."}