Hacienda De Argentina   

I am writing, not just in praise of Hacienda De Argentina, but to counter the two negative reviews that precede mine. I think it is unfair when people write in with brief, angry insults that don't really explain their experience but manage nevertheless to ruin the restaurant's rating. If you'll note the reviewers' spelling and grammar decisions, maybe this will give you some insight into the intellects from which their opinions arise. Anyway, my wife and I both enjoyed our Hacienda experience. I spent some time in Argentina and the chef has made a few concessions to American eaters. For example, he spices his meat in a rub that a true parrilla would not feel necessary. But I am an American and I like spice, so I liked my steak at Hacienda. It was imported for Uruguay, as close as they could get to Argentinean meat, maybe a little tough but flavorful and well prepared. I also admired the fresh baked bread and the delightful grilled cheese, while my wife enjoyed her empanadas (another concession; I’ve never actually seen an Argentinean in Argentina eat an empanada). The wine list was helpful with it's only slightly over-zealous descriptions of the wine, and my wife and I enjoyed a smooth, flavorful Malbec that I’d never heard of, Bulina or something like that. Regarding desert, to me a steak place should have a really exceptional chocolate cake, but all Hacienda had was a little tort. Tasty but not the big chocolate you want after your big steak meal. Disappointing for me, but wife said her flan was the best ever. The service was strong, our waiter friendly and helpful, but the really neat thing is the over-the-top macho gaucho ambiance. Dark woods, high backed hacienda-style chairs and long tables, with leather covering everything else. Hey, it was a fun place to eat. If you don’t live on the upper east, maybe it’s not worth the trip from a long way off. But on a cold night, if what you want is a warm place with red wine and good beaf, you could do a lot worse.

I WAS THERE SATURDAY, THE ATTENTION WAS NO GOOD. WHEN I WENT TO ORDER THE FOOD FROM THE MENU THEY WERE OUT OF THE CHOICES THAT I WANTED. I DONT RECOMEND IT TO NONE OF MY FRIENDS.

Had a great meal there. The meat is to die for, and a fantastic looking wait staff (Argentines are notoriously good looking. I used to dater one)

horrible!!!!!!!!!!