We worried that places might be shut for the holiday on the holiday here in Cusco, but this city is open for business and hopping. We had been told to try Pachapapa which means "earth father" in Quechua and specializes in Andean local cooking. On arrival we asked to sit indoors as the weather was getting chilly (about 55) and while summer here, the Peruvians filled the outdoor patio. We were escorted into an adorable room with rustic wooden tables and chairs (thanks for the cushions) and dozen of silver-framed and enameled mirrors with some horse pottery in the alcoves. Only two other tables were occupied: an American couple at the far end of the room and two Asian gents right next to us who almost never put their cellphones down, even while eating.
We ordered Pisco Sours which were served in adorable clay mugs and perused the large menu.
We started with a shared order of Pachapapitas which were nice potatoes cooked in herbs and spiced butter and the had our own starters:
For Sam the vegetarian Palta Rellena, a stuffed avocado with vegetable salad and house made mayo. Will's was the same with chicken.
I loved the Causa Rellena, a modernized version of the traditional potato dish akin to a Napoleon with layers of potato, trout, avocado, mayo and mild chili.
We ordered a bottle of water and were in shock when Badoit (yes, the French 5star winner) arrived (it was $7 when the bill came!). The bread was sad crusty rolls with a basic tomato salsa and a yummy herb/huacatey spicy salsa. The downer was the sad miniature paper napkins.
Main courses were all winner and Sam had a White Pizza Fugazza with sautéed onions and black olives.
Will chose the Pacha Papa plate with skewered alpaca brochette, stuffed hot pepper, corn tamal, grilled assorted potaotes with Andean cheese and a salad.
I had the Beef Short Ribs from the wood-fired oven that were cooked to perfected with crunchy edges and soft meat that fell off the bones, An awesome Yellow Chili Quinoto accompanied and was a truly fabulous quinoa/grain dish. I ordered a half bottle of Tacama Gran Tino of Malbec/Petit Verdot/Tannat 2016 which was only $10!!!!!!!!!!!!!! while Will had the local beer and Sam enjoyed a Mix Quillabamba of Mango, Passionfruit, Ginger and Honey Syrup.
No complaints and no dessert because again the portions were HUGE and delicious.
We returned to our hotel room to find not only a miniature pottery nativity scene made by a local artist, but a marshmallow Xmas tree with treats and more candies and cookies....so much for no dessert.
Happy Holidays to ALL!
And as always many photos on FB!
