CordovaUpdated:
05/09/2024 09:41h
In the heart of Córdoba, between alleys steeped in history and bustling neighborhood life, stands a corner that transcends time with its gastronomic essence: Meson El Barrio. With its doors open since 36 years agothis establishment is not only a landmark in the city, but also a culinary treasure that contains the tradition and good work of several generations.
We interviewed Rafael, who together with his brother, José María, owns the premises. His history with the Mesón dates back to its beginnings as a modest food store, later transformed into a cozy gastronomic corner. “In the beginning it was a food store, a butcher shop, but I looked for the option of moving into hospitality because the food store was not doing very well,” recalls Rafael. The commitment to hospitality was a success and, since then, Mesón El Barrio has been a meeting point for lovers of traditional Cordoba cuisine.
The cuisine of Mesón El Barrio is a family legacy that has endured over the decades. From the first days when Rafael’s mother, Agustina, prepared the dishes, passing through the hands of Rafael’s wife, Rosa María, who has been in front of the stove for more than 30 years, to the present day, where her daughter-in-law, Heidi, continue the tradition. «My daughter-in-law continues to cook traditional cuisine, with the same recipes. A wide variety of dishes, all homemade and delicious», states Rafael proudly.
The star dishes of Mesón El Barrio are a tribute to grilled meat and fish, carefully prepared both at midday and at night. “What is grilled meat is exceptional,” Rafael highlights. In addition, the menu offers a variety of unique dishes such as stuffed peppers or stuffed squid, along with classics such as cheeks and Mussels In Sauce.
Mesón El Barrio’s formula for success is based on perseverance, love for the products and concern for customer satisfaction. «It is the perseverance, doing things with love, caring about all the products, that everyone leaves with pleasure,” explains Rafael. This commitment is reflected in the experience of customers, who constantly praise the quality and authenticity of the Mesón’s cuisine.
The tourism, both national and foreign, have discovered the charm of Mesón El Barrio, attracted by its reputation and the glowing reviews of other diners. «They are stunned. Both the English and the French, when they taste our food, they remain with their mouths open», shares Rafael.
In addition, the Mesón offers the option of taking home all its dishes, such as its grilled chicken, a temptation for demanding palates who want to enjoy traditional dishes and authentic Córdoban cuisine in the comfort of their home.
Looking to the future, Rafael sees promising continuity for Mesón El Barrio, with the family immersed in the business and a firm focus on traditional dishes. “The future must be very good,” he says confidently. With a menu where tradition prevails, but which allows for small touches of innovation, as with his orange salmorejoMesón El Barrio will continue to be a must-see destination for those seeking the culinary essence of Córdoba.
