Casa Vasca

- 141 Elm St, Newark, NJ 07105

For residents and visitors in the New Jersey area seeking a truly authentic taste of Northern Spain, specifically the Basque Country, Casa Vasca stands as a culinary landmark. Nestled in Newark's historically rich Ironbound section, this establishment has been a pillar of Spanish-Basque gastronomy since its founding in 1976 by Basque immigrant Juan Jose Aurre. Casa Vasca is more than just a restaurant; it is an enduring part of the local community, highly regarded by generations of Spanish and Portuguese immigrants and now a favorite destination for guests from across the tri-state area and beyond.

The culinary focus here is on fine Spanish-Basque cuisine, a tradition influenced by the rugged coastline of the Bay of Biscay and the fertile valleys of the Pyrenees. This unique regional focus translates into a menu rich with both exceptional seafood and hearty meat preparations. Diners can anticipate a professional and friendly atmosphere, where the warmth of Basque hospitality is as memorable as the generous portions served. The restaurant offers a welcoming blend of casual, cozy, and romantic atmospheres, making it suitable for groups, locals, and tourists alike.

Casa Vasca's commitment to authentic, quality dining has made it a celebrated spot for over four decades, carrying on the tradition of Basque gastronomical excellence. It serves as a true representation of the region's food culture right here in New Jersey.

Casa Vasca is perfectly situated in the bustling and culturally diverse Ironbound district of Newark, New Jersey, a neighborhood famous throughout the region for its concentration of high-quality Iberian restaurants. The exact address is 141 Elm St, Newark, NJ 07105, USA.

This location ensures easy accessibility for those traveling from various parts of New Jersey and the greater New York metropolitan area. For those driving, the restaurant provides a convenient amenity often hard to find in urban areas: a free parking lot. Additionally, free street parking is available nearby, simplifying the planning of your visit. For patrons with mobility considerations, the restaurant is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible restroom and seating, ensuring a comfortable dining experience for everyone.

Given its popularity, particularly for those looking to enjoy its distinct and generous offerings for an extended meal—the typical visit is approximately two hours—making reservations is highly recommended, especially for peak dining times. Lunch and dinner reservations are both advised to secure your table at this Ironbound gem.

Casa Vasca provides a comprehensive range of dining and service options to suit various needs and occasions, reflecting its long-standing professionalism:

• Dine-in service for both lunch and dinner, featuring table service.
• Takeout options for those who prefer to enjoy the cuisine at home.
• A full bar onsite offering a great selection of beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and an impressive wine list, including Spanish and regional specialties like their famous Sangria.
• Catering services are available for special events and larger gatherings.
• Table service for a fully traditional dining experience.
• Accepts reservations for planning your visit in advance.
• Accommodates families, being good for kids and offering high chairs.
• Various payment methods are accepted, including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments.

The experience at Casa Vasca is defined by several notable features that consistently draw high praise from patrons, solidifying its reputation as a standout Spanish-Basque restaurant in New Jersey:

• Authentic Spanish-Basque Cuisine: Specializing in the distinctive cuisine of the Basque Country, offering dishes like the renowned Cod Fish Pil-Pil, Merluza a la Vasca, and a vast selection of fresh seafood and traditional meat dishes like Ternera a la Vasca.
• Generous Portions: A consistent highlight for many customers, the restaurant is known for serving inordinate, large portions, ensuring great value and satisfaction, with many patrons happily taking home leftovers.
• Exceptional Beverage Program: Features a great wine list, great cocktails, and a great beer selection, with many reviewers specifically calling out their popular Sangria.
• Fast and Friendly Service: The wait staff is frequently highlighted for being attentive, friendly, and professional, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Extensive Menu: A large menu covering all dining preferences, including offerings like comfort food, small plates (Aperitivos/Appetizers), healthy options, and late-night food. Popular menu categories include:
  • Aperitivos: Such as Almejas En Salsa Verde (Clams in Green Sauce), Camarones Al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp), and Chorizo A La Parrilla (Grilled Chorizo).
  • Pescados Y Mariscos (Fish and Seafood): Featuring Paella Marinera, Mariscada A La Marinera, Bacalao Al Pil-Pil, and Langosta Rellena Al Horno (Stuffed Baked Lobster).
  • Carnes Y Aves (Meats and Poultry): Including Solomillo A La Parilla (Grilled Filet Mignon), Mar Y Tierra (Surf and Turf), and Pollo Al Ajillo (Chicken in Garlic Sauce).
• Atmosphere: The dining environment is often described as a pleasant mix of cozy, quiet, and romantic, suitable for special occasions or a relaxed evening out.
• Great Desserts and Coffee: Praised for having a great dessert selection and great coffee to complete the meal.

To plan your visit or inquire about catering, Casa Vasca can be reached using the following details:

• Address: 141 Elm St, Newark, NJ 07105, USA
• Phone: (973) 465-1350 or +1 973-465-1350

Choosing Casa Vasca is choosing a dedicated and long-standing piece of Newark's culinary heritage, offering a distinct and high-quality dining experience. What makes it particularly worthwhile is the rare opportunity to indulge in authentic Basque cuisine—a style of cooking considered by many to be among the finest in Spain—without leaving New Jersey. The restaurant’s status as a Basque establishment sets it apart, focusing on specialties that beautifully blend the bounty of the sea with rustic land fare.

The sheer generosity of the portions offers exceptional value, a point frequently echoed by delighted customers who note the 'inordinate amount of food' and the value of dishes like the 'huge' bacalao al pil pil. This focus on providing a plentiful, satisfying meal mirrors the generous spirit of the Basque culture itself.

Furthermore, the menu is a seafood lover's paradise, with dishes like Paella Marinera, Mariscada A La Marinera, and a variety of clam and shrimp preparations. Yet, the options extend well beyond the ocean, with tempting choices like the Solomillo Com Camarones (Filet Mignon with Shrimp) offering a true "Mar Y Tierra" experience.

Beyond the food, Casa Vasca provides a dining atmosphere that is both casual enough for a quick bite and elegant enough for a romantic dinner or a group celebration. The combination of attentive service, a great selection of drinks including a notable wine list and famous sangria, and the cozy, established setting makes every visit feel like a special occasion. For New Jersey residents seeking a flavorful, authentic, and generously portioned Spanish-Basque meal in a professional yet friendly environment, Casa Vasca is an unmissable culinary destination in the Ironbound.

Casa Vasca

141 Elm St, Newark, NJ 07105, USA