Restaurant reviews – the opinions expressed are solely my own. Often, though it will appear that they’re based on a single visit, they’re based on more than one. And I’m willing to hear from folks who disagree – I do know that restaurants, including my own, have their off days.
Carmelo – This community along the western edge of Uruguay has a population of a mere 16,000 people (including the “weekend ranch” of Argentine diva Susana Gimenez). The town is, simply, dominated by the winery Irurtia, the giant bottles of which are scattered here and there throughout the town. Dante Irurtia is the present day… Read More Grand Scale
Buenos Aires – I love a good degustación, or tasting menu, as much as the next guy. It’s a chance for the chef to show off, to send out what they think is their best, to maybe try out a new item and see what a loyal customer thinks. Beautifully prepared, small plates, one course… Read More Tasting Menu?
Buenos Aires – When I was departing New York back in January from my brief visit, my friend Frank handed me a few books he thought I’d enjoy. We do that. I left him one that I hadn’t. But then, that was all I had with me. I’ve been reading Abroad, by Paul Fussell, on… Read More Fin de Semana
Buenos Aires – This weekend has followed it’s by now familiar pattern, with Henry’s young niece showing up unexpectedly on Friday afternoon to spend the weekend, out of mom’s hair, so to speak. As the resident computer person, it has fallen to me to design and print the invitations and other sorts of papery things… Read More Food of Eternal Springtime
Buenos Aires – It may have just been coincidence, or it may have been because he knew I’m heading to Uruguay next week, but my new friend, whom I shall call “Pierre” to protect his identity, chose an Uruguayan parrilla for our lunch yesterday. He’s a local food and wine writer and restaurant reviewer, and… Read More Chotos, Pamplonas, & Chajá
Buenos Aires – Cinnamon is the bark of a tropical evergreen tree – related to the laurel, or bay tree. There are two main types – Ceylon, more properly these days I suppose it ought to be called Sri Lankan (Cortex Cinnamoni), but then we haven’t changed the name of the tea either; and Chinese,… Read More Cinnamon, Basil, & Pecans
Buenos Aires – “Where do you wanna eat?” “I dunno. Where do you wanna eat?” “I dunno. Where do you wanna eat?” “I don’t really care.” “I don’t either.” “Me neither.” Believe me, this witty repartee sounds just as stupid in Spanish. I’d started out the other evening with the best of intentions – it… Read More “Seafood?” “I dunno…”
Buenos Aires – Yes indeedy folks, it’s John Frum Day. Forget Valentine’s Day yesterday – the chocolates are eaten, the flowers are wilting, those hopeful “Will You Be My Valentine?” cards are already slated for the circular file. Ignore, if you will, that today is National Gum Drop Day, Candlemas, and Lupercalia all rolled into… Read More Happy John Frum Day!