Azul Historico | Elias Kababie

Restaurant Azul Historico is located half block away from Madero —the new fantastic pedestrian street at the historic center— and right across the traditional Casino Español. It was inaugurated at the beginning of 2012 and is part of the new Downtown hotel and the successful family of restaurants Azul, located in different parts of Mexico City. To develop the architectonic and interior design project, its owner the well known restaurateur Gonzalo Serrano, teamed up with architects Juan Pablo Serrano, from Serrano Monjaraz Arquitectos and Elías Kababie from Kababie Arquitectos. Gonzalo's experience in operating successful restaurants in Mexico City found in the ideas of Pablo and Elias —based on the concepts designed by Javier— exactly what he needed for this space that promises to be the new reference in the historical center of Mexico City. The project focused on maintaining the integrity of the original court of the fantastic colonial building that was adapted for the new activity. The magnificent interior facades are the frame that surrounds the restaurant that is sunken among vegetation to provide its guests with a gastronomic experience al fresco. Honoring the great project of architectural reuse of this extraordinary building, Pablo and Elias made the selection of the furniture with reuse and the important location of the restaurant in mind. In some of the tables names of nearby streets, area maps, characters and dates related to the historical center can be read. In the bathroom a couple large copper pots and were used as sinks as a tribute to the Mexican cuisine. To add an industrial touch, burned-out bulbs were placed on a grid on the ceiling to inspire the visitors on the importance of reusing materials that have already completed their useful cycle and may have a new life using the imagination. Another thing that stands out in space is the artificial lighting in the transition from day to night, because during the whole day the guests have to feel welcome and enjoy their stay, whether for a quick lunch to recharge energy or a long family meal. Renowned Chef Ricardo Munoz Zurita is in charge of the menu so the visit to this new space is an experience that satisfies all senses.