Today I had lunch with Venetia at El Gato Negro, another of the cafes notables I am researching for my book, with the help of some cafe loving friends!

This is a lovely old place, with traditional flooring, lots of wood panelling, waiters with red vests — and a wonderful smell composed of coffee and the many spices they use in cooking and also sell. Venetia had cafe con leche flavoured with cardamom!

We had tacos for lunch, but they were like no tacos I’ve ever had. Quite small and not folded over. The mixture was piled on top of them, and consisted of chicken pieces in a curry flavoured yogurt sauce. Yummy!

Here’s my quick sketch of the wall behind the counter, with the signature black cat overlooking all the bottles and jars and cans of spices, coffees and teas.

When we left and were walking along Corrientes, we passed this great little sweet shop and I couldn’t resist the white and bitter chocolate flakes! Good thing I walk so much, or this research would be making me fat!