From Michelin Recognition to Flavorful Fusions: Paseo’s Journey with Chef Carlos Gaytán

In a culinary affair, Chef Carlos Gaytán, in collaboration with the esteemed Patina Restaurant Group, unveiled three captivating new Mexican dining experiences – Paseo, Céntrico, and Tiendita – at the vibrant heart of Disneyland Resort’s Downtown Disney District. Gaytán, renowned for his Michelin-starred expertise in Mexican cuisine, brings his culinary heritage and innovation to Anaheim, marking his inaugural venture into the lively West Coast culinary scene.

Gaytán emerges as a trailblazer in the culinary world, marking his name as the first Mexican-born chef to attain a coveted Michelin star. His journey to this acclaim has been adorned with recognition across various global platforms, including a memorable stint on BRAVO’s “Top Chef” in 2013. Starting his culinary expedition in Chicago, Gaytán refined his skills at esteemed establishments like the North Shore Hotel and Bistro Margot, under the tutelage of renowned chef Dominique Tougne. Venturing into entrepreneurship, Gaytán realized his dream with Mexique, where he seamlessly fused his Mexican heritage with a love for French culinary artistry. Beyond these accomplishments, Gaytán’s culinary ventures extend to Ha’ at Hotel Xcaret México in Playa del Carmen and Tzuco in Chicago, where his innovative prowess earned him a semifinalist nod at the James Beard Foundation Awards in 2020.

Paseo, one of Gaytán’s latest ventures, offers a contemporary ambiance adorned with bespoke elements reflecting Mexican culture. Through a conversation with the chef, guests witness Gaytán’s passion for his craft and heritage, evident in Paseo’s elevated dining experience, showcasing refined Mexican delicacies with flair.

I had the pleasure of dining at Paseo and engaging in conversation with Chef Carlos Gaytán. Upon arrival at Paseo, guests are greeted by a modern and visually stunning dining room and bar area adorned with rich woods, bespoke leathers, lush greenery, and intricate native accents that pay homage to Mexico’s vibrant culture. Gaytán’s profound connection to his heritage is palpable throughout Paseo, where he orchestrates an elevated dining experience spotlighting lesser-known Mexican delicacies presented with exquisite elegance.

The extensive menu at Paseo showcases reimagined and contemporary interpretations of Chef Gaytán’s cherished childhood dishes, highlighting the vibrant flavors of chiles, aromatic spices, and homemade tortillas that shaped his culinary journey.

My dining experience commenced with a delightful amuse-bouche featuring a medley of flavors, including tortilla, salsa, cottage cheese, and black bean purée.

To accompany the exquisite flavors, I selected a glass of Monte Xanic Chenin Blanc 2022. This distinguished wine reveals earthy, oaky, and fruity notes of minerals, honey, caramel, peach, and apple, with a refreshing acidity that glides gracefully across the palate. Monte Xanic, celebrated as Mexico’s premier boutique winery, was established in 1988 and operates with a commitment to sustainable farming practices and modern eco-friendly design. The name “Xanic,” pronounced as “shan-eek,” derives from the white flower that heralds the arrival of spring in the Valle de Guadalupe, further encapsulating the essence of Mexico’s rich terroir.

Following is the Pulpo Enamorado, featuring roasted octopus adorned with creamy tuna aioli, salsa macha, and pickled vegetables. The dish is presented with meticulous artistry, boasting vibrant colors and showcasing tender octopus. This is an absolute must-try for any diner.

Next up is the Yucatán ceviche, comprising hamachi, baby cucumbers, fried plantains, mango habanero gelée, dragonfruit, and achiote aguachile. The dish is a visual delight, with a beautiful presentation incorporating a myriad of colors. The star of the show is the mango habanero, imparting a perfect balance of sweetness to complement the fish and cucumber. This dish is highly recommended for its exquisite flavors.

Moving on to the Mejillones, featuring PEI mussels served with saffron beurre blanc, dried chorizo, and pickled jalapeño, accompanied by house-made sourdough bread infused with olive oil. The charred sourdough bread adds a delightful smokiness that pairs perfectly with the savory sauce of the dish. Gaytán’s culinary expertise shines through in this fusion of French techniques and Mexican flavors, making it a standout dish on the menu.

Finally, we have the rich and vibrant cochinita pibil, a Guerrero-style pork shank dish inspired by Chef Carlos’s mother’s recipe. Mama’s cochinita pibil is served with black bean purée, pickled red onion, habanero salsa, and corn tortillas. The tender meat and creamy black bean purée create a harmonious blend of flavors, while the side dish of esquites, featuring local fresh corn with epazote garlic aioli, chili powder, and lime juice, adds a delightful accompaniment to the meal. This dish is a true testament to Chef Gaytán’s culinary heritage and expertise, making it a standout choice for any diner.

I had the pleasure of trying two delightful desserts.

First up is Maiz, featuring corn and saffron ice cream paired with cocoa cake, salted caramel, and caramel popcorn. The ice cream is nestled within a corn mold, requiring a delightful crack to reveal its contents. The presentation is exquisite, showcasing a blend of creativity and artistry. Each element harmonizes perfectly, resulting in a flawless balance of flavors.

Next, I sampled Cacao, a decadent treat consisting of dark chocolate sorbet, spice sponge cake, orange zest purée, cinnamon foam, and cacao nibs. The anticipation is heightened as this dessert is planned to be served within a chocolate cocoa bean in the future, promising a whimsical touch to the dining experience. With its rich combination of textures and flavors, Cacao is a delightful treat that is sure to please chocolate enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the dining experience at Paseo was truly delightful. From the exquisite decor and interior design to the delectable cuisine, every aspect of the visit left a lasting impression. The delicious food, complemented by the stunning view of Downtown Disney, elevated the experience even further. It’s a memory that will be cherished for a long time to come. As Paseo continues to expand its offerings with weekday lunch and weekend brunch service on the horizon, there are undoubtedly more unforgettable moments awaiting eager diners.

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Where to park: In the Downtown Disney District, there’s specific parking available for guests looking to dine at the restaurants. Once you park your car in this designated area, remember to take your ticket with you and request validation from the restaurant.  The parking fee is $10 with validation.

Downtown Disney Parking Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4mB6DgJbYeSoCbCp9

Restaurant Website: https://www.paseoanaheim.com/

Hours: Sunday – Saturday: 4:00pm-10:00pm

Phone: 714-204-3354