First of all, you must know that when I die I wish to be interred in a vat of chimichurri sauce. As my devotion to meat intensifies so naturally does my interest in Argentinian steak and accompaniments. We have been to El Argentino many times and have enjoyed the earthy food and wine but were very pleased to discover a new, chic restaurant had opened even farther north on the Prolongnation de Montejo.

If you are looking to be on the scene in Merida this is definitely the place to be at the moment; we were having the car valet parked last night (Friday) at around 10. We chose to sit in the bar, where you can smoke and have an uninterrupted view of the arrivals and noticeably wobblier departures. The full dinner menu is available there. A peak into the dining room later revealed a beautiful, sleek yet comfortable space where we will likely sit on our inevitable next visit.

Our waiter, who spoke some English, approached our table the best way we know how: with the promise of cold martinis. Malcolm and I had ours with Gray Goose while one of our dining companions ordered the classic made with Bombay Sapphire gin. They were icy and copious and perfect. The menu proved slightly more daunting. The long list of cuts of meat was a little opaque and does not prove any more penetrable after the first cocktail is imbibed. I chose the 500 g arracherra which was bigger than a baby’s arm and just as thick. I started with the spinach and cheese empanada, natch. It was sensuous.

Malcolm had the tuna, encrusted and seared; it was rich and creamy, done just right. Dining Companion Bombay Sapphire ordered a manly portion of meat, and the fourth member of our dinner party, despite being on a juice fast was unable to resist a few tidbits, e.g., the asparagus with melted cheese and the cream of asparagus soup. As first bites were tentatively tasted eyes closed and lips praised gods or whoever is in charge of such delicious morsels. Subsequent mouthfuls were so generous as to disrupt, at least briefly, the animated conversation. We ate to our heart’s content and there was more than enough to bring home to the dogs. We were also provided warm bread with a quartet of dipping/spreading options

Everything was absolutely marvelous. It was a wonderful night out with friends. La Revoca, I dare say, is the best new restaurant in Merida.

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