Francis Mallmann is the chef most associated with Argentine open-fire cooking, and his style, built around embers, iron griddles, whole cuts and a patient, rustic approach, has shaped how many travellers imagine an Argentine feast. A lunch in this tradition is less about elaborate plating and more about flavour: vegetables charred over coals, meats cooked slowly and served simply, and a table that encourages conversation. The experience we link is a gourmet, wine-paired lunch from Mendoza, with transport from the city and a menu designed around the wines. It sits in the part of the trip where food becomes the main event, and it works well as the centrepiece of a day in the Uco Valley, where Mallmann's cooking is associated with the wine country restaurants in the area. Expect a long, unhurried meal, a series of courses with matched wines and views of vineyards and mountains that make the setting as memorable as the plates.
Why it works
Argentine wine and fire-cooked food are natural partners. Malbec has the structure to stand up to grilled beef and the savoury notes of smoke, and fresher whites and rosés play well with vegetables and seafood. A paired lunch lets you taste this logic rather than just read about it.
The courses are usually designed in sequence, so you notice how a wine that seemed strong on its own becomes softer with the right dish. If you like to cook, you will pick up ideas about heat, timing and seasoning that you can try at home.
How to prepare
Confirm exactly where the lunch takes place, since venues and menus vary between options, and check the departure time and duration. Reserve early, because lunches of this kind have limited seats. Tell the operator about dietary restrictions in advance, as fire-based menus are meat-heavy and the kitchen needs time to adapt. Eat lightly at breakfast, wear comfortable clothing and bring a layer for cooler evenings or air-conditioned rooms. Plan nothing strenuous afterwards: this is a day to enjoy the table.
Practical notes
The lunch is a premium experience, so read what is included, including wines, transport and any extra costs. Pace the tasting by drinking water and accepting smaller pours if you want to stay fresh through the later courses. If you are travelling as a couple or a group celebrating something, mention it when booking, since the team can sometimes make small touches.
Pair the lunch with an afternoon spent resting or walking at a hotel or winery nearby. Those who prefer a more informal cooking experience can look at the asado class, which is hands-on and more relaxed.
Reading the menu like a local
The structure of a fire-cooked lunch often moves from lighter starters, perhaps vegetables and bread cooked over embers, to richer meat or fish dishes, and finally to a simple dessert. Ask the sommelier why a certain wine was chosen for each course, because the logic is a good lesson in pairing that you can reuse at home.
Do not be afraid to eat with your hands where the table invites it, and take your time. This is an experience built on generosity and slowness, and the best way to enjoy it is to surrender to the pace.
What to expect
The experience
A multi-course lunch cooked over fire, with matched wines and transport from Mendoza.
Best time
Spring and autumn for outdoor settings; the meal is a good plan for any season.
How long
Five to six hours including transport.
Tips
Tell the kitchen about dietary needs, eat lightly beforehand and pace the pairings.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Food-focused travellers and couples celebrating something.
- Families
- Better for adults and older teens; the pace is long and wine-led.
- Couples
- A long, romantic lunch with mountain views.
- Pair with
- A Uco Valley winery visit or an afternoon at a hotel spa.
- Time needed
- Plan most of a day.
Good questions
What is open-fire cooking?+
It is a style of cooking over embers and flames, using grills, griddles and slow heat. It is closely associated with Argentine tradition.
Is transport included?+
The option we link departs from Mendoza, but check the meeting point and return time when you book.
Can vegetarians eat well?+
Often yes with notice, since fire-cooked vegetables are a part of the style, but tell the operator in advance.
Are wines included?+
The lunch is wine-paired. Confirm how many pours and which wines are included.
What should I wear?+
Smart casual and comfortable shoes. Bring a light layer for the evening or the air-conditioned dining room.
