In the historic centre of Asunción, where every corner holds whispers of the past, stands Casa Clari. A bar-café that not only offers good food, but also invites visitors to connect with the history, architecture, and soul of a city in search of rebirth. Behind the project is Jorge Oyenard, a Uruguayan chef who arrived in Paraguay in 2019 with a suitcase full of experience, but above all, with a clear vision: to transform spaces and emotions through gastronomy.
From a young age, Jorge knew his place was among pots and laughter. “I was always the one cooking with my friends, the kitchen was a meeting point. It felt magical, the joy people experienced when tasting food,” he recalls fondly.
What began as a hobby, encouraged by a close friend, soon became a life’s purpose. It led him to pursue formal training, start his own ventures, and finally bet on Paraguay as fertile ground for dreams.
“I absolutely recommend investing in Paraguay, if you fall, you can get back up. Failure here does not weigh as heavily as it does in other countries. It is safe, calm, and affordable.”
The rebirth of a house with a story
In March 2023, thanks to a connection from the Ministry of Culture, facilitated through the Uruguayan Embassy, Jorge visited a long-forgotten terrace within the Manzana de la Rivera cultural complex. Where others saw a neglected storage space, he saw the potential to create Asunción’s finest gastronomic terrace. “Out front was a courtyard that looked like the gardens of the Palace of Versailles,” he remembers.
With the help of Guille, a waiter from one of Jorge’s other cafés, and a group of friends who joined the dream, Casa Clari was brought to life in just 22 days, respecting every architectural detail of the 1920s art déco home, which originally belonged to the Clari family. “Since it is a listed historical house, we could not make major structural changes. That is why there is no air conditioning. But it has an atmosphere unlike anywhere else, designed to protect and honour the heritage.”
Bronze railings, once hidden under layers of paint, were carefully stripped, polished, and varnished. The team restored original features and unearthed elements they didn’t even know were there.
This reverence for history is not merely an aesthetic choice, it is also a legal and cultural responsibility. In Paraguay, the Law for the Protection of Cultural Heritage imposes sanctions on those who damage heritage buildings, and obliges local governments and municipalities to inform the National Secretariat of Culture of any risks posed to protected properties.
Culture, flavour, and thoughtful service at Casa Clari
Casa Clari is not simply a bar, it is a cultural meeting point, a place where flavour intertwines with memory. Since opening its doors, it has been a resounding success, with demand regularly exceeding its 80-person capacity. “Casa Clari was a key part of the historic centre’s revival,” Jorge states with pride.
The menu includes breakfasts, lunches, afternoon teas, and dinners, blending international cuisine with the bold, comforting flavours of Paraguay. Sharing platters are among the most popular items, while international guests often go for the typical Paraguayan basket, which includes pastel mandi’o, mbejú, chipita, and pajagua mascada. Also popular are empanadas, chivitos, breaded cutlets, pasta, and pizzas.
“A Paraguayan with an empanada sandwich, a beer, and a tereré is the happiest person in the world. No fuss, no pretence.”
The drinks menu is equally varied, featuring all types of coffee, a wide selection of beers, and signature cocktails created to match the relaxed and welcoming ambiance.
An experience worth reserving
With privileged views of the gardens behind the Palace of the López, Casa Clari’s terrace has become one of the most sought-after spots in the city to share a meal or drink at sunset. Given its popularity, advance reservations are strongly recommended to ensure the best possible experience.
At Casa Clari, the team does not just serve food, they share stories. Each staff member is trained in the history of the house, and its cultural importance. While everyone speaks Spanish, there is always at least one English-speaking staff member on hand, ensuring warm, attentive service for both locals and international guests.
VIP Card benefits
As a VIP member of The Asuncion Times, you get a 10% discount at Casa Clari, just by showing your VIP Member card – one of many VIP Member Benefits. The restaurant opens everyday and is located on Paraguayo Independiente, in the La Manzana de la Rivera Block, in Asunción downtown.
Casa Clari opening hours
Monday: 10 AM to Midnight
Tuesday: 10 AM to Midnight
Wednesday: 10 AM to Midnight
Thursday: 10 AM to Midnight
Friday: 10 AM to 1 AM
Saturday: 10 AM to 1 AM
Sunday: 10 AM to 1 AM
For more information check Casa Clari on instagram.
