By Maia Gambis
True meat lovers already know about Sur Parrilla Gourmet, an authentic Argentinian restaurant considered the best gourmet “parrilla” in the country and conveniently located in the heart of northern Quito.
But for those unfamiliar with SUR’s fine meats and wines, and its deep commitment to upholding tradition, stop by on “25 de mayo” (May 25th, Argentina’s equivalent of the 4th of July) for a taste of Quito’s finest Argentinian cuisine.
Indeed, this family run restaurant founded by the late Nestor Buratovich (an Argentinian native) and now inherited by his three sons, Leandro, Daniel and Adrian, takes great pride in its own history: SUR is the result of a labor of love, with profound respect and appreciation for prime quality products, passed on from one generation to the next.
“From the food, to the décor, to the service, SUR’s main concern is to fully satisfy its customers,” explains head chef Omar Bertorelli (also Argentinian, from the Cordova region), and hence provides a complete dining out experience. Culinary excellence is paired with custom fit service, while design and attention to detail provide a cozy, yet modern, backdrop.
Their commitment to quality is obvious by their array of superior meats, both imported and national. “It all starts with the quality and handling of our products,” insists Bertorelli, who boasts 15 years experience working for international chains such as JW Marriot in Buenos Aires.
The meats are grilled at an angle on a typical Argentine “asador” so as to minimize fat and optimize taste. All parrillas at SUR (which also include seafood and vegetarian options) are prepared on the spot, and connoisseurs are free to specify their preferred cut. However, if you are unsure of what to choose, there is no going wrong with the “parrilla degustación,” a mix of meats and grilled vegetables with portions generous enough for two ($64.50 including tax).
And while meats are undoubtedly the most popular choice on the menu, SUR also makes paellas, pastas and homemade desserts, one of the delicacies being their Malbec wine flavored ice cream.
Wine, in its most traditional form, is definitely central to a perfect meal at SUR. Leandro, the house sommelier, insists, “No parrilla is complete without a great wine to accompany it”. It is therefore no surprise that SUR is equipped with its own, highly select cellar.
TASTING
Tastings are also available not just for wine, but whiskey, beer, molecular mixology, and sparkling wines. Tasting events may be accompanied by musicians upon request. Be sure to inquire about the innovative “Cata con artista” during which a painting is created on site by a professional artist.
Those passionate about fine wine can request a “cata,” or wine tasting at SUR, or a live music “cata show,” catered specifically to large groups. Guests not only will taste fine wine, but will learn about the history of wine making and come to appreciate the role of a sommelier in the world of gastronomy.
SUR Parilla Gourmet is a genuine experience in refinement. The elegant black and red décor, the large bar that greets you center stage, the four very distinct rooms (Salon principal, Salon Francés, Salon de Conferencias, and La Cava) - each with their own ambiances - all are part of a grand design where the aesthetics, lighting, and music serve to enhance the menu.
The SUR atmosphere was never an afterthought, but rather the creation of Ricardo Plant, a renowned Argentinian architect who was brought from Buenos Aires and commissioned to remodel what was once a traditional, Quito residence. Exclusive areas were carved out and particular emphasis was put into the construction of a custom cellar. The result is nothing less than impressive, right down to the funky wine bottle ceiling. La Cava’s touche de grace!
SUR Parilla Gourmet is located on Portugal Avenue E11-61 & Catalina Aldaz. For reservations and information call 225-6739. Meals at SUR average $32 per person including appetizer, dessert, and taxes. Find them on facebook: “Restaurante SUR” and follow them on Twitter @Restaurante Sur.
SUR DINING ROOMS
Main Dining Hall - Dynamic space for large or smaller groups.
French Room seats 25 people, and has a more intimate feel.
Conference Room holds a maximum of 25 people and is ideal for larger groups. Projections and screenings can be held here upon request.
La Cava located downstairs, offers a unique ambiance with a capacity of 150 people in total. It is ideal for business meetings, family reunions and events.
Ciudad Quito