Let's Do Lunch! @ Novecento

Let's Do Lunch! visits Novecento in New York's Soho for a traditional Argentinian tasting prepared by Chef Oscar Santana. Celebrating 33 years in the business, Oscar came from Mexico with his wife to pursue his dreams, working his way from washing dishes oddly enough right across the street at Felix, to becoming chef at Novecento.

Santanta offered a meat eaters feast starting with pan fried crispy sweet breads that melt in your mouth, served with green beans, mushroom, corn and yuca fries. The appetizer empanadas are enough for a meal. Each flaky serving features a different shape filled with meat, chicken with sweet onions and white wine, spinach and mozarella cheese and ham and mozarella cheese; gooey and delicious.

Another traditional dish served at Novecento is Trio Argentino, a threesome of chorizo, blood sausage and sweet breads accompanied with chimichurri sauce that you want to eat with a spoon. And of course it wouldn't be complete without Entrana, Argentinian skirt steak with creamy mashed potatoes complimented with a glass of Malbec.

The kitchen is open with a view of the bar so Oscar can see diners enjoying his food. The restaurant opens up to the street inviting passersby to come in; great for people watching on a summer day. For authentic Argentinian cuisine, you can't beat Novecento.

Photos courtesy of Antonia Russo