Derek Whitlock

Review of Open Doors - Casa Nueva

Casa Nueva, a worker-owned cooperative, is one of ...

Casa Nueva, a worker-owned cooperative, is one of the few places to eat in uptown Athens, OH, and while the absence of competitive quality-augmentation may be a common theme among Athens' small selection of eateries, Casa isn't bad. The restaurant's wait-staff of 'worker-owners' can sometimes be disappointingly inattentive (even rude), but the community there is, if nothing, tight knit, and carries an air of local charm. The table-side service leaves a little something to be desired, but despite a few awkward incidences, I'll concede to the idea that one can generally make it through a Casa lunch/brunch relatively painlessly. A 20% gratuity is built into the price of food and drink so if you DO have a bad experience, there is no retribution. The food is a bit pricey, but won't break the bank (add-ons and side items sometimes carry a completely unreasonable price tag). The cost of alcohol is also high, but the drinks are strong and the bartenders are competent. Due to the sparsity of dining and drinking options in town, Casa Nueva is among the hottest spots in Athens to spend an evening... and after a while it might grow on you. I will say that, as a late-night music venue, I have enjoyed Casa on numerous occasions. Three stars for the restaurant, four stars for the bar/bodega, and five for the music. Four stars, baby. Go and check out a show and let loose of your scathing resentment for life, you cantankerous jerkface :) Enjoy your stay in Athens - the other 'brick city'.