the true cost of tradition

When people think of Mexican food, they often associate it with quick, affordable bites like tacos, burritos, or street food. However, this perception overlooks the rich history, intricate preparation, and quality ingredients that go into authentic Mexican cuisine. At Cena Brooklyn, we’re passionate about showcasing the true value of Mexican food, and we believe it’s important to dispel the myth that it should be cheap.

The Craft Behind Mexican Cuisine:

Mexican food is rooted in centuries-old traditions, with recipes passed down through generations. Each dish involves careful preparation and a deep understanding of flavors, techniques, and ingredients. From hand-pressing tortillas to slow-cooking meats and crafting intricate sauces, authentic Mexican food is labor-intensive and requires skillful hands. These efforts are what elevate Mexican cuisine beyond just a "quick meal" to an art form worthy of appreciation.

Quality Ingredients Make the Difference:

At Cena Brooklyn, we source the finest ingredients to ensure every dish represents the true essence of Mexican cuisine. Whether it’s selecting the perfect cuts of meat for our Enmoladas, quality is at the heart of everything we serve. Mexican food often relies on ingredients that are not only premium but also sometimes hard to find, which can increase costs. The use of fresh produce, high-quality meats, and traditional spices contributes to the unique and vibrant flavors that define our dishes.

Many people don’t realize that authentic Mexican dishes often involve time-consuming preparation methods. Take mole, for example, a complex sauce made with up to 30 ingredients that can take hours or even days to prepare. This dedication to tradition and authenticity is a significant factor in why Mexican food isn't as inexpensive as some might assume. When you pay for a plate of enchiladas for example, you’re not just paying for the ingredients you’re paying for the time, effort, and craftsmanship that goes into creating a dish that’s rich in culture and flavor.

Supporting Fair Wages and Local Businesses:

Pricing also reflects the need to support fair wages for our staff, who pour their hearts into every dish. By charging a fair price for our food, we ensure that our team is compensated for their hard work and that our restaurant can continue to thrive in a competitive industry. Additionally, by supporting local suppliers and sustainable practices, we’re investing in our community and ensuring that the food we serve is both ethical and delicious.

At Cena Brooklyn, we believe that Mexican food should be valued for its authenticity, quality, and tradition not just its price. The next time you sit down to enjoy a plate of tacos or a bowl of guacamole, we hope you’ll appreciate the story behind the food and understand why it’s worth every penny. Mexican cuisine is a celebration of culture, and that’s something worth investing in.

By educating our customers and changing perceptions, we hope to elevate the appreciation of Mexican food beyond the stereotype of "cheap eats." It’s not just food it’s a cultural experience that deserves to be recognized for its true worth.