Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán and Patina Restaurant Group have opened three new Mexican dining spots – Paseo, Céntrico, and Tiendita – in Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort. Gaytán, known worldwide for his cooking skills, is bringing his expertise and Mexican roots to Anaheim for his first venture on the West Coast.
Being the first Mexican-born chef to earn a Michelin star, Gaytán is a big name in Mexican cuisine. He has appeared on various TV shows like BRAVO’s “Top Chef” in 2013 and has been featured in many food and travel magazines. Gaytán started his culinary journey in Chicago, working at different places and eventually owning his own restaurant, Mexique, where he blended Mexican and French cuisines.
Besides the new places in California, Gaytán also owns Ha’ at Hotel Xcaret México in Playa del Carmen and Tzuco in Chicago, where he was a semifinalist in the Best New Restaurant category by the James Beard Foundation Awards in 2020.
At Paseo, visitors step into a modern and impressive dining room and bar filled with beautiful woods, soft leathers, lush plants, and special touches that honor Mexican culture. Gaytán’s passion and connection to his roots shine through at Paseo, offering a fancy dining experience that highlights lesser-known Mexican treats in a fancy way.
The menu at Paseo brings new life to Gaytán’s childhood favorites, featuring bold flavors of chiles, fragrant spices, and homemade tortillas he grew up loving. Highlights include the flavorful cochinita pibil – a pork dish inspired by his mom’s recipe – and pulpo enamorado, a dish of roasted octopus topped with a creamy tuna sauce. Another standout is the mejillones, combining French techniques with Mexican flavors, adding saffron, chorizo, and pickled jalapeños to classic mussels. Paseo aims to whisk diners away to Gaytán’s hometown, aiming to create unforgettable dining experiences.
Céntrico serves as a social hub in Downtown Disney District, featuring open, spacious areas designed with wooden accents and greenery, capturing the essence of a Mexican hacienda. This lively spot offers a menu of Mexican favorites like chicken enchiladas alongside modern twists like a Caesar salad with a Mexican touch. The bar boasts a variety of creative cocktails, including the Ritual Margarita and El Mariachi in Manhattan, putting a Mexican spin on the classic drink. Céntrico’s outdoor setting invites groups to gather and enjoy a range of dishes, making memories against the backdrop of Céntrico.
Completing the trio, Tiendita offers quick-service dining without sacrificing the high-quality Mexican cuisine found in its sister restaurants. The menu features beloved classics like esquites and tacos al pastor, prepared in a bright, glassy space where guests can watch the skilled culinary team in action. Guests can order from self-service kiosks or a friendly counter.
The Mexican influence isn’t just in the food but also in the unique design elements of Paseo and Céntrico, crafted by award-winning Mexican architect Jorge Gracia. The restaurants’ furniture comes from La Metropolitana, a Mexico City-based design and carpentry company known for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. Additionally, Anfora, a respected dinnerware company deeply rooted in Mexican culture, has created custom dinnerware that reflects the spirit and dining experience of Paseo and Céntrico.
Now, anyone can walk in and dine at all three restaurants, and reservations will begin on June 1st for Paseo and Céntrico. Paseo is open for dinner right now, and they’ll add weekday lunch and weekend brunch soon. Céntrico is currently open for both lunch and dinner.