Bienvenida primavera! I’m so very pleased to see you again. The days of lazy long lunches al fresco have returned.

Freshly squeezed limonadas – photo from Hierbabuena’s Facebook page.

One of my favorite spots to do just that is Hierbabuena. The place is adorable, the food is divine, and the wait staff is friendly. I’m always impressed with the quality of their menu; everything is so natural and fresh, and the flavor combinations are spot-on. I usually fall for the Menú del Día, although my other top favorite is the Brie Salad: warm brie over beet carpaccio with a date and nut vinaigrette. Believe it or not, I’ve yet to try the brunch they’re so well-known for, mostly because I prefer my brunch savory and there are so many other options calling to me. I highly recommend a jug of one of their juices, or a smoothie. You’ll feel energized immediately.

Photo of the charming interior from Hierbabuena’s Facebook page.

This gorgeous day, we considered our lunch options over a chilled bottle of Cafayate Torrontés. I went for the Menú del Día: shrimp kebabs with grilled brie, braised pears and a mandarin reduction.  Gaspar got his favorite, the Avocado Sandwich. A chicken breast smothered in avocado, melted cheese, tomato, egg and mayo.

So consistently excellent. This spot is what spring in the city’s all about.

HIERBABUENA – Av. Caseros 454 in San Telmo