Mendoza
With most Mendoza restaurants closed on New Years Day, we only had a few options. But PH concierge Barbara came up with a gem. "How about dinner at a chef's home?" Really? Si, sign us up. On a quiet residential street a short 10 minutes from the PH is Ituzaingo Resto, one of the most unique dining experiences we have ever had. Gonzalo is an amiable host and creates a thoroughly enjoyable evening of wine, food and conversation. Gonzalo's friendly boxer Titi, welcomed us at the front door.
Gonzalo and his GF/SO.
Outside, the courtyard is beautiful with multiple seating areas in different settings under the trees. Only four other guests tonight made it a small and convivial group.
The tiny kitchen where the staff creates amazing meals.
We all enjoyed a variety of wonderful taste sensations, staring with gazpacho.
Great ceviche.
And the best empanadas of the trip.
For starters, we had a choice of fresh salad with trout or beef carpaccio.
For the main, I had the filet.
Perfectly medium rare.
Our buddy.
A quick three hours later, we bid adieu after a most enjoyable evening. Iuzaingo Resto, Gonzalo and Titi are musts for anyone visiting Mendoza.
PH concierge Jessica arranged a great day of wine tasting starting with Cobos and Ruca Malen. After checking out, we left the PH with our bags around 10:30A. Our personable driver Nicholas dropped us off at Vina Cobos. This great winery is part owned by Napa winemaker Paul Hobbs.
Excellent introduction to Cobos from our host Pablo.
And a tour of the facilities.
Followed by wine tasting in an intimate setting with only two others, a lovely Dutch couple who live in Barcelona.
Sad to leave, but more wine and food await a few kilometers down the road.
Next up was Bodega Ruca Malen where we had lunch reservations.
Spectacular setting on a perfect day.
Our front row table.
And great views of the Andes.
And a great lunch with six different wine pairings.
What an amazing lunch in an idyllic setting!