Palermo is probably best known for its open-air craft market that fills the historic neighborhood streets every weekend. Yet one who chooses to visit this fashionable art district in the evening hours will find it is also home to an endless number of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. On my trip to Buenos Aires I had a chance to dine at Casa Cruz, a popular nightspot with an eclectic interior to match its playful and modern menu. Red banquettes stand out against leopard print carpets and dark lacquered wood walls. Dramatic floral arrangements greet diners and give a sense of elegance to the low-lighted space that might otherwise feel like a club. The hip décor is complimented by a trendy crowd, but having arrived for what Argentines would consider an early dinner, 9:00PM, most of the other patrons had yet to venture out.
Guido, the wonderfully charming maitre-d, treated us to their signature drink- the Cruz 2.0, a dazzling mixture of passion fruit, apple liquor, ginger, ginger ale and vodka. In addition to a collection of inventive cocktails, Casa Cruz boasts a featured wine wall, well stocked with an inventory of 90% local Argentinean wines. Wine enthusiasts indulge!
We began our meal with a trio of appetizers; créme brúlée de foie gras, risotto with truffle oil, and an organic green salad – just a few of the diverse choices from an extensive menu. Bread lovers will also enjoy the warm and crunchy pan de campo or country bread. For our main courses we shared tasty creamed-corn and shrimp tamale served on organic greens. Both my pulpo asado, grilled octopus with corn cake, and my wife’s l solomillo de cordero, lamb loin with herbs, were well spiced and tender. We topped the meal with a delicious apple tart with yogurt and black pepper ice cream. For more standard fare I recommend the simple, but delightful cremoso de vanilla con maracuyá, vanilla custard with passion fruit. As if the chic décor and eclectic menu were not enough of a recommendation, Casa Cruz shares its magnificent chef, Germán Martitegui, with highly regarded sister restaurant Tegui and Olsen.
Uriarte 1658
Capital Federal
Buenos Aires, Argentina
+(54) 11 4833-1112
*Reservations essential.
*Accepts most major credit cards.
*Open for dinner only. Closed Sunday.