Wonderful World, Beautiful People....

We eat a a unique restaurant "Like Water for Chocolate" based on the imagery of the book by that name. Our table for 7 looks like a 4 poster brass bed complete with pillows and bedspread and it is surprising that no one actually lies down for a rest. On the menu are lovely huge steaks, conger eel and a plethora of guacamole based dishes served on huge stone plates--the 'congrio' was a sort of buttery white fish on a bed of yams and asparagus all blanketed in a rich creamy sauce with cilantro. So conger eel turns out surprisingly enough to be one of the best things I've ever eaten. Now of course, this is after quite a few Pisco Sours, whih apparently I like a lot. A Pisco Sour is a sort of South American margarita-ish affair made with Pisco, lemon juice and sugar. Pisco seems to be one product that the Chileans are particularly proud of alongside their carmerneras and cabernets; it is after all, made from grapes too. However a lot stronger. As was explained to me, the first one makes you happy enough to dance, the second makes you dance and the third makes you dance on the table. I have a love/hate relationship with pisco sours.

We were treated to more Piscos at the lovely new home of Luis and Marie along with Dominic Barnes who had come over from the UK to meet up with our group. We were served empanadas by the gorgeous 9 year old Issa who kept busy keeping the boys in check with her snappy one liners. Luis made a mean pile of steaks on the mountain side grill and Marie made the best flan--a family specialty. Recipe to follow gals...and if I can make it like Marie did, then you're all in for a treat. It was a truly special night and an unusual opportunity to experience a home so far away from home.