Small plates and fine wines reign superior at Glou Glou, a culinary concept led by chef Luis Pabón and sommelier Gabriela Moreno that is located within nine-suite boutique hotel Casa TO.
Boasting a strong following since opening May 2023, Glou Glou’s gourmand revolution was born out of a philosophy of young wines and authentic food, and offers essential and unpretentious cooking in unique surroundings notable for their tropical brutalism style. As much for Casa TO residents as visitors to Puerto Escondido — a port town and resort on Mexico’s Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca — the vision of chef Luis alongside sommelier Gabriela takes shape in a sonorous journey for the senses that celebrates simplicity and pays homage to authentic flavours.
Seasonality and influences from different latitudes are reflected in original recipes, including non-alcoholic fermented beverages and baked goods. Whether enjoying breakfast or brunch (think fruit accompanied by yogurt and jam, followed by a smoked ricotta omelette with homemade bacon, macha sauce and arepas, or french toast with crème anglaise and fried pecans), or picking at the pool menu for a spot of lunch, dishes are delightful, especially when washed down with a light wine as recommended.
For dinner, Pabón and Moreno maintain an intimate approach, which inspires both the à la carte menu and the tasting menu with wine pairings; available in four- and seven-course versions. These recipes emphasise the sensory character of the ingredients and explore the perfect harmonisation with wines and mezcals.
Highlights include the watermelon, avocado and fish aguachile; grilled catch of the day, a symbol of the Oaxacan coast, accompanied by a Meunière sauce; and a chocolate and salted caramel tart with cream to finish. For the pairing Moreno has curated a selection of wines, both Mexican and international that includes everything from young sparkling wines to classics such as Champagne, as well as complex whites, rosés, oranges, and both modern and more traditional aged reds.
For exceptional and unpretentious food and drink in exquisite surrounds that capture the harmony between tropical and brutalist aesthetics, Glou Glou at Casa TO is an unforgettable treasure that should not be missed on a visit to Puerto Escondido.
Glou Glou at Casa TO Puerto Escondido Photography, © RNI Films / courtesy of Glou Glou.
