Cascabel
Modern Mexican Eatery Reimagining Street Food
Cascabel is a high-energy, modern Mexican eatery that reinterprets street food with an elevated, avant-garde approach. The name “Cascabel” refers to both the rattlesnake’s tail and the chili of the same name—small, fiery, and unmistakably bold. Inspired by the mythology of Quetzalcóatl, the plumed serpent, the restaurant’s identity weaves together ancient symbolism, modern abstraction, and contemporary Mexican cuisine.
Designed in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Roberto Ruiz, Cascabel represents a trailblazing force in Mexican gastronomy in Europe. Ruiz’s Punto MX was the first Michelin-rated Mexican restaurant in Europe, and Cascabel continues this legacy, delivering a fresh, uninhibited take on Mexico’s culinary heritage.
The original concept, developed by Oscar-winning set designer Eugenio Caballero (Pan’s Labyrinth), was later refined and adapted for its expansion into Lisbon, where Vient Design Co. was entrusted with translating the brand for a more buttoned-up European market while maintaining its essence. The success of this approach led to further adoption of the brand identity across different platforms.
Custom materials, intricate layering, and an electrifying color palette of deep reds, earth tones, and luminous accents create a space that feels primal yet contemporary, timeless yet rebellious. The result is an experience that not only honors Mexican heritage but also pushes it forward into new territories, both geographically and creatively.
Project Details
Location: Madrid, Spain and Lisbon, Portugal
Square Footage: [XXX sqft]
Scope: Concept Refinement, Branding, Environmental Design, Spatial Storytelling, Custom Fabrication, Signage
Collaborators
Roberto Ruiz - Michelin-stared Chef, Restauranteur
Eugenio Caballero - Oscar-winning production Designer (Pan’s Labyrinth)
María Fernandes - Creative Director
Photography Credits
Pending
