There is always a buzz when a storefront promises change in our Sopocachi neighbourhood, outside the centre of La Paz. Passing by and peering in the darkened windows we all knew something was taking shape. Without a doubt, curiousity had gotten the best of us and there had been much speculation as to what was coming!
In our walking community, just half block away from the house, a wonderful surprise has happened. The newly opened, El Rincon
Andaluz (Calle Aspiazu 450 Sopocachi) is amazing.
At first opportunity we took a table close to the kitchen. Ordered a bottle of La Concepcion Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, started with a variety of tapas then Calamares al Ajillo (Squid to the Garlic) & Fruto del Mar (Assorted Seafood). The plates arrived as we sipped. Taking bites, we were overwelmed. Presentation, freshness and flavour - everything perfect! The fish was cooked astoundingly well, seared and slightly pink inside. With complete amazement, allow me to say that in a landlocked country you do not find many who understand the cooking of fish. But here at El Rincon, they have it down. Aromas, flavours and the softly playing "
Pasa Doble" music transported us to the South of Spain! We were so surprised and pleased and thrilled, we asked to meet the Chef.
Next surprise! A petite young woman called Euniz Claudia Catacora Claros (a name longer then she is tall) came out to meet us. A recent graduate of the "
Escuela de Hostaleria y Turismo" Culinary Program, she was polite yet had a good sense of self. She explained she was the only person in the kitchen cooking for all who entered. I needed a foto of her in action; I followed her to her work station (see above foto).
Granted having opened just this week, the restaurant was only partially full. However, I remain impressed that one so young has the confidence and the skill to make a success of a restaurant launch! Hats off! Kudos! Chef Euniz, you are one of my favorite chefs in Bolivia! I wish you a long eventful career and more
Michelin stars then the one you wear on your shirt! Que Dios bendiga el trabajo de tus manos
!
He stepped off the bus. As his foot sank into the soft blanket of snow, a sharp blast of cold airshot past the cuffs of his trousers."
