Well, I made it. And even the flight on American Airlines wasn't too painful. The trip to the terminal's spiffy wine bar Vino Volo even set me in the mood before getting to the gate, as I sipped and swirled a flight of wines entitled "Passport to South America," including a Michel Torino Torrontes and Bodegas Juan Benegas Malbec from Argentina.
And a mere 12 hours after boarding with my buzz, I deplaned in glorious Buenos Aires. After making a quick pit stop at the Mine Hotel to drop my bags and pick up my gal pal Karen, who had flown in from San Francisco for this south of the equator adventure, we made a beeline to one of the city's most famous steakhouses for lunch - La Cabrera. They believe in large portions at La Cabrera. Large portions of incredible, melt in your mouth beef, grilled to perfection.
You thought that looked sublime? Hold on for a sec. Here's the real money shot...
If that isn't enough to make you wish you had been with Karen and I for almuerzo, you should also know that we polished off a bottle of Malbec with our meal. Oh, and we also indulged in an itty bitty sweet...
Crepes filled with decadent, gooey, Dulce de Leche. Moan-worthy fare to say the least.
The only things we could think of doing after this gluttonous affair was to hit the gym or hit the streets of Palermo.
As Miss Karen has broken her foot and is wearing a unwieldy Aircast, the streets seemed the better option, especially once we began window shopping. It was even better, once we got past the windows!
Needless to say, I've already succumbed to a lovely silver necklace and a magnificent green leather handbag.
So, leather goods, great steak and delicious Malbec have all been had in less than 24 hours of my arrival. Next up -- God willing -- is a handsome gaucho!
Stay tuned.
Wow...amazing pictures. Wish I was there myself. I love Argentina...but their accent is a bit hard for this Mexican. Holla!
Posted by: joaquin ochoa | April 15, 2008 at 08:24 AM