The village of Garzon is 40-kilometers from Jose Ignaico, the hip and ever-expanding enclave of models and celebrities that quickly surrounding the village with tourists and visitors. Located in a charming old mill town with native palm trees and benches strew with older locals, Garzon Hotel and Restaurant is the brainchild of Uruguayan-chef Francis Mallmann famous for his Los Negros in Jose Ignacio. The restaurant is decorated in native colors with dark ebonized woods used for benches and tabletops. An outdoor courtyard and terrace offers views of the countryside as well as a spectacular summer setting for parties and events.
The Food
If you’re familiar with Los Negros you’ll recognize the fiery cooking created through Mallmann’s use of the old Andean cooking technique called “infiernillo” (little hell). Rotating between two wood fires, the chef cooks up sizzling grilled platters on cast-iron griddles presented still-scalding to the table. The result is very unique presentation of flavors marrying olive oil and fresh herbs with generous cuts of local beef and seafood creations. Appetizers include a roasted filet mignon of Aberdeen Angus with chimi churri or salmon comfit with seaweeds and watercress parsley salad. Whole fish catch of the day comes in a salt crust with roasted squash accompanied by gratin of baby beets and greens. A classic wood oven is also used for all breads and desserts, which means pretty much everything that touches your mouth is homemade.
Last Word
Foodie-sanctuary created by Francis Mallmann offers 5-room hotel and delectable countryside restaurant with terrace.