The Team
Casa Pearl is the brainchild of Mikey Maksimowicz. Mikey, originally from the Northern Neck, was formally trained at the French Culinary Institute in New York City, graduating in 2005 before he could legally purchase alcohol. At Casa Pearl, Mikey is the Executive Chef but can be seen working the front and back of the house. Fortunately, he has found an amazing staff of individuals excited to prepare delicious food and drinks for you.
Mikey became established chefs in premier restaurants along the east coast. These restaurants include Michelle Bernstein’s Omphoy (Palm Beach, FL); and Vidalia, Rogue 24, Blue Duck Tavern, Fabio Trabocchi’s Fiola Mare and Fiola (all of Washington, DC).
In 2015, Mikey decided to head further south to Charleston, SC, where he learned oysters from two of the best Charlestonian restaurants: The Ordinary and Rappahannock Oyster Bar. Casa Pearl was born out of these years of Latin-inspired experiences in South Florida and Argentina and seafood-centric Low Country techniques in Charleston, as well as a desire to get back to his Northern Neck roots.
The Concept
Our team is very passionate about Casa Pearl’s concept, oysters and tacos! At first glance, it may seem like an odd pairing, but doesn’t it sound delicious? Oysters play a big part in the aquaculture, livelihood, and history of the Chesapeake Bay. Our team is obsessed with the two, and marrying oysters and tacos in a fun and lively atmosphere is the perfect setting for a memorable meal enjoyed with friends and family.
Casa Pearl focuses on quality locally-sourced ingredients, seasoned culinary expertise, and gracious customer service. Our raw bar features many of the delicious fish and shellfish that the Chesapeake Bay region has to offer. Tacos are Latin-inspired, but with a southern twist. The menu consists of smaller plates to encourage sharing.
The Space
Casa Pearl resides in a renovated Texaco gas station transformed into an oyster bar and taco joint. We are located along the Merrimac Trail corridor at the edge of York and James City Counties in the growing food and beverage scene on 2nd Street / Merrimac Trail. We are well situated to serve every type of person: foodies, families looking for good food in a relaxed atmosphere, couples heading out for a fun dining experience, patrons looking for a refreshing beverage, college students, the weekend crowd, and local professionals to name a few. The roll-up garage doors and additional patio will be open during nice weather for diners looking for an outdoor experience.