Casa de Bandini Mexican Restaurant Carlsbad

Sights, Sounds and Flavors of Mexico

 

In years past it wasn’t uncommon for San Diego County residents from all sides to make the journey to Old Town to enjoy Diane Powers’ Casa de Bandini Mexican Restaurant. Affectionately known my many as “Bandini”, the restaurant opened in 1980 in the refurbished Cosmopolitan Hotel, which dated back to it’s grand opening in the fall of 1869. Bandini enjoyed being one of the center pieces of Old Town for many years but was forced to relocate after it’s lease was not renewed.

In 2009 a new location for Bandini was selected in the beautiful city of Carlsbad, California in The Forum Shopping Cener at 1901 Calle Barcelona. Loyal followers were overjoyed that this iconic Mexican Restaurant would be re-opened, and those living in North County San Diego were particularly thrilled that Carlsbad had been chosen.

Casa de Bandini General Manager Gilbert Gastelum was asked about what sets Bandini apart. He said, “We provide an unparalleled atmosphere for all your senses. The smell of the food, the sounds of the live mariachi music, the unique artistic decor, the lush gardens, the tastes of the food and margaritas, etc. Coming to our location is like visiting a Mexican destination point close to home. At the same time, it’s very warm and attentive because we are all from North County, so we are all a part of the community. ”

Bandini is indeed very proud to be part of the North County, and participates in many local events, including:

  • The San Marcos botanical gardens charity event
  • San Diego restaurant week September 18-24
  • The wine and food festival at the San Diego zoo on September 24th  benefiting the endangered species
Casa de Bandini also offer superb catering services, both on or off site. Parties of all sizes can be accommodated. Weddings, anniversaries, service organizations, birthdays, off site business functions or seminar catering, and of course holiday parties. December holiday parties are already booking quickly, as well as January due to many businesses finding it more convenient to do their company parties after the holidays.
Whether it be lunch, dinner or our popular Happy Hour daily from 4-7 featuring our famous “Bird Bath Margaritas”, Casa de Bandini welcomes the chance to provide you with a truly unique and genuine experience as you enjoy a taste of Mexico.