Especially when you just fulfilled your yearly protein quota in Uruguay.
So when I heard that ØLSEN served Nordic food and was metres away from our hotel, we went to check it out.We entered the Danish haven.
Beyond the wooden gate is a garden, with more wood, trees, sculptures, water fountains and sheer peace.
Were we still in busy Palermo? Had we left Buenos Aires for some peaceful oasis?
The weather was mild that day and made us enjoy the open terrace all the more. Sadly, the kitchen had just closed the lunch time and we were given the afternoon menu. Seeing the other guests’ droolful plates, I promised myself to come back someday and try the full shebang.
They have an impressive drinks menu, most of them featuring vodka. The ‘mint’ was fresh and delicious. I almost didn’t taste the alcool.
We ordered a plate of Smørrebrød, the Danish version of tapas, as I interpreted the dish. But more delicate and absolutely delicious.
Germán Martitegui, bravo. Germán is ØLSEN’s praised chef.
Each little “open sandwich” was like a music chord. Some had more discordant notes than others. Not that they didn’t go well together. They were just “jazzy”. Some married more easily. Like ‘pop music Smørrebrød’. I loved the one with cookie, cheese and pear.
There is an open fireplace in the middle of the restaurant. Must be a great place to cuddle in winter between the sheep furs and the warm-me-up cocktails.
By the way, I’ve seen similar copper lamps in Brussels. I have to walk by the shop to see the exact address and will let you know. And I presume the lamps in the Restaurant are David Derksens’.
Also, I want the bear t-shirt that the staff were wearing. Maybe next time I can bribe a waitress into granting my wish.
:)
