Nestled within the Casa Monica Resort & Spa, a distinguished property from The Kessler Collection, Cordova stands as a renowned restaurant with a storied past. Drawing inspiration from Southern Spanish heritage, Cordova offers a unique culinary journey, seamlessly melding the flavors of Moorish and Spanish cuisines. In this interview, Chef Robert DeGrassi, responsible for curating exceptional dining experiences at the resort, shares insights into Cordova’s rich heritage and the remarkable fusion of coastal and chophouse cuisine.
Cordova draws its name from Cordova 95, the original title inspired by a prominent Southern Spanish city. We queried Chef Robert DeGrassi on how Cordova pays respect to this influence and the significance this historical reference holds for the overall dining experience. He elucidated that Cordova not only embraces its Spanish origins but also interweaves Moorish elements, evident in the hotel’s ambiance. With Moroccan chandeliers, art, and an atmosphere that transports diners to another time and place, Cordova maintains a profound connection to the past.
Cordova’s menu beautifully blends Moorish and Spanish influences, a delightful fusion celebrated by Chef Robert DeGrassi as he elaborates on how these diverse culinary traditions come together in specific dishes and ingredients. The heart of Cordova’s identity lies in the harmonious union of Spanish and Moroccan spices, which gives the cuisine its distinct character, offering patrons a culinary experience that captures the essence of both cultures.
To provide a sneak peek into Cordova’s inaugural menu, we engaged Chef Robert DeGrassi in a discussion of the standout dishes. He emphasized the restaurant’s commitment to featuring fresh, locally sourced seafood, highlighting Red fish and Florida grouper as essential offerings. These fish undergo unique preparations that seamlessly blend the flavors of Spain and Morocco, resulting in a delightful fusion of tastes.
As Cordova embarks on its debut year, we explored how the menu would evolve with the seasons. Chef Robert DeGrassi clarified that the menu is thoughtfully crafted to adapt to seasonal changes. In the fall and winter, it focuses on ingredients like butternut squash, cauliflower, apples, and fennel, while spring and summer see a transition to feature peas, tomatoes, and asparagus. This flexible approach ensures that Cordova’s offerings are always in harmony with the changing seasons.
Cordova, being a coastal chophouse, naturally led us to inquire about the types of cuts and meats that will be featured. Chef Robert DeGrassi explained that Cordova will place a strong emphasis on seafood due to its beachfront location. Additionally, the menu will offer high-end steak cuts to deliver a memorable chophouse experience. The unmistakable fusion of Spanish and Mediterranean flavors will be a hallmark of Cordova’s culinary offerings, making it truly exceptional.
Adding depth to Cordova’s narrative, we discovered that this exquisite coastal chophouse is situated within the historic Casa Monica Resort & Spa. Boasting 145 indoor seats, a lounge, a private dining room, and an intimate wine room, Cordova guarantees an intimate dining experience within a warm and eclectic setting. This ambiance seamlessly complements the Spanish and Moroccan influences that permeate the restaurant, alongside Cordova’s meticulously crafted spice blends and selection of Old-World wines.
Cordova, a Coastal Chophouse & Bar, pays homage to the rich history and diverse culinary influences of Southern Spain. Whether you’re in search of a romantic dinner, a private event, or an exploration of coastal flavors, Cordova offers a unique culinary journey. With its commitment to excellence and dedication to crafting memorable dining experiences, Cordova evolves with the seasons. Come and savor the flavors of Cordova, where history meets culinary fusion, and every meal tells a story. The restaurant is set to open in mid-November of this year.
Casa Monica Resort & Spa: https://www.kesslercollection.com/casa-monica/
