The Revamped Casa Ora Is a Dreamy Must-Visit In Brooklyn

Just in time to celebrate its two-year anniversary, acclaimed Venezuelan-American eatery Casa Ora has reopened following some extensive summertime renovations. The Michelin-recognized menu, featuring innovative farm-to-table fare, is as fabulous as ever, but the revamped dining room is reason enough to head to Williamsburg for dinner. 

With owner Ivo Diaz at the helm of the redesign and construction, the glamorous new space boasts chic velvet banquettes, wooden benches, Persian rugs, and gold-framed vintage mirrors with plenty of rich jewel tones and plant life serving as the perfect accents. Let's just say Insta-worthy is an understatement. 

As for the must-try bites? Mother-son team Isbelis and Ivo Diaz have combined the flavors of their homeland with fine dining techniques and locally-sourced ingredients to create standout dishes including the Baby Shark (monkfish wrapped in ripe plantain, guayanés cheese, caramelized coconut milk, ají dulce paste & jasmine rice) inspired by the Venezuelan shark dish "cazon,” Asado Negro (braised short rib with burnt papelón sauce, yucca, pickled papaya & peanut praline), and a selection of Arepitas, small arepas with fillings like avocado chicken salad and shredded beef with cheddar.

Wash it all down with the rum-based Caracas Caracas, a Venezuelan twist on the Old Fashioned, or the almost too pretty to drink Purple Banana, made with tequila, dry vermouth, blue pea tea, and, duh, banana.

Clearly, this upscale Brooklyn favorite calls for a revisit ASAP.

Casa Ora, 148 Meserole St, Brooklyn

[Photos courtesy Casa Ora]