Last week I went for a glass of wine with a friend, who told me about this place she had discovered. It’s called Palacio Balcarce and although it’s quite near me, I had never noticed it before. It’s one of those Buenos Aires hidden gems that don’t look like much from the outside, but inside is a different story.

Susan and I had our wine, and were able to see it has a lovely outdoor courtyard, with heaters, and a fancy restaurant upstairs. The maitre d’ explained that this is the only palacio in Buenos Aires that was designed and built in the British style rather than the French.

We thought it was worth trying the restaurant, so last night I went for dinner with Lina, Venetia and Patti. Patti and I arrived early and had a glass of champagne in the courtyard, and then we joined a very long lineup on the stairs. We didn’t realize till we got to the top that there was a concert in another room, and that’s what the lineup was for! Anyway, it didn’t take long and was definitely worth the wait.

Beautiful old, dark wood paneling everywhere, which was definitely different from the cream and gilt of all the French style palacios. The food was excellent, and we all really enjoyed our evening. I think the courtyard might become a regular place for afternoon champagne!