Our Story
In April 2018, the chance encounter between Karina and Lalo in New York City turned into a life-changing invitation. Lalo, a young musician from Mexico, casually invited Karina to his grandmother's house in Puebla. Little did they know, this invitation would become the catalyst for their marriage and the birth of a culinary venture that would uplift their community during the challenging times of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Before the pandemic hit, both Karina and Lalo were working in prestigious restaurants - Lalo at Cosme and Karina at Eleven Madison Park. However, like many others, they were suddenly furloughed from their jobs, leaving them searching for a way to channel their creativity and passion.
As the monotony and uncertainty of the pandemic set in, Karina and Lalo decided to express themselves through art and food. They painted a vibrant blue wall in their apartment, reflecting their desire for joy and inspiration. Then, Karina embarked on a culinary journey, preparing her first Birria, a traditional Mexican dish that required over 15 hours of cooking. The taste transported Lalo back to his home and he was amazed.
Inspired by the success of Karina's Birria, they launched Cocina Consuelo, a relaxed take-out and delivery venture, in late June. Starting with friends and family as their first customers, word quickly spread about the authentic and delicious flavors they offered. Within weeks, they found themselves selling out on the first day and needing to restock over the weekend to meet the growing demand.
Cocina Consuelo, much more than just a food establishment, is a celebration of home cooking, family, and the bonds it creates. In addition to Karina's famous Birria, they have added dishes such as 'Chiles Rellenos con Atún', paying homage to Lalo's grandmother's recipes, and vegan options like 'Tacos de Fajitas Veganas'. Rooted in simplicity and authenticity, their food represents their culinary backgrounds from high-end restaurants while highlighting the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine.
With the vibrant tunes of Son Jarocho playing in the background and guided by Lalo's abuelita's recipes, Cocina Consuelo has become a gathering place where family, friends, and neighbors come together to savor delicious meals. The venture expanded beyond just tacos, evolving into a supper club experience, offering multi-course tasting menus that embrace ancestral techniques and celebrate seasonality.
Now, Cocina Consuelo is embarking on its next chapter by opening a front store in Karina's childhood neighborhood. This expansion signifies their deep connection to the community and their commitment to uplifting and nourishing their neighbors. They actively involve the locals in decision-making, seeking their input on menu items and even the interior design of the space. Cocina Consuelo's new storefront is poised to become a hub for community gatherings, workshops, and celebrations, reflecting their dedication to fostering a sense of belonging and strengthening community bonds.
With their unwavering passion for food and community, Cocina Consuelo continues to honor their roots while embracing the future. Their story is a testament to the power of hospitality, love, and the art of home cooking.