SAZÓN A Feast for All the Senses

By Anya Sebastian Photography by Herschel Mair

Photography Creative Direction Suzanna Becerra

Arestaurant that has achieved the recognition and reputation of Sazon could simply relax and carry on doing what they’re doing. Once you’ve reached the top, there’s nothing left to prove, after all.

The challenge is to stay involved and keep things interesting and that is something that award-winning Executive Chef Fernando Olea, and co-owners Lawrence and Suzanna Becerra, are completely committed to. “Most of the dishes on our menu are available year-round and are so popular that people would be really upset if they weren’t there,” says Lawrence, “so we come up with new and different takes, rather than adding new ones.”

Uniqueness is really Sazon’s defining quality and one variation is a rack of lamb, with an added spinach sauce, large beets and crispy rice noodles, covered with a balsamic glaze. For dessert, there is fruit crumble, resting on a compote of fresh berries, with an edible orchid and a caramelized sugar

That dedication to excellence applies to drinks as well as food and Sazon has acquired some truly exceptional new products. One is a mezcal from Baja, aged 7 years in French oak cognac barrels, resulting in a softer, more mellow taste. “This 7 Year Special Reserve is the only one I know of, to be aged in that way, or for that long,” Lawrence says, “so this really is an exclusive find.”

Another exceptional find is a rosé, also from Baja, created from garnacha (grenache) grapes. “Rosé has become very popular in recent years, but most are really not that great,” says Lawrence, “so I tried this one with some trepidation. It turned out to be one of the best I have ever tasted and I’m sure it will be very popular for the summer months.”

Sazon now has the same mocktails as its sister restaurant, Sassella, created with a nonalcoholic base of gin, rum or tequila. These are an extremely popular option for designated drivers, or for those wishing to drink and still drive home.

Known also for its outstanding art, Sazon has some new, magnificent paintings by three of Mexico City’s most celebrated artists. These are also on display in the private dining room upstairs, which can be reserved for private meetings or family gatherings.

Success has clearly inspired the restaurant to keep growing and innovating in every way. A visit to Sazon is a complete experience, guaranteed to satisfy all five senses. When the time comes to leave, you know you will be back.