EL SANJUANINO

My first visit to Buenos Aires will not be complete without sampling authentic local fare. The concierge at the Alvear Palace directed us to lunch at El Sanjuanino. It was indeed the real McCoy and a fine addition to my 'street eats' collection.

'Comidas tipicas Argentinas en el corazon de Buenos Aires' or roughly translated as 'typical local Argentinian favorites'. We ordered : Empanadas - the Argentine version of Cornish Pasty with various fillings, Locro - different parts of the pig slow-cooked in beans like a Cassoulet, Guiso de Mondongo - tripe with chorizo and beans which captured my undivided attention. At the middle of each table was a shallow dish of hot chili sauce ie finely chopped red chili cooked in garlic and oil, an exact replica of Chiu Chow chili we use for beef briskets and fish balls. I was thrilled as it was perfect for the tripe stew. The menu overhead was overwhelming but to pace ourselves we only ordered the classics. The Empanada is a true staple, either consumed at the restaurant or as take-out orders, non stop the whole time we were there. At Pesos 11 or US1 a piece it is best value-for-money. With salads, soups, and a large carafe of House Red the damage was an incredible Pesos 700 or US10 per head.

'La importancia se saber elegir' ... you know what I mean, do not miss it!

EL SANJUANINO : Posadas 1515 Recoleta Buenos Aires - 4805 2683