Singapore's first and only Argentinian restaurant is dedicated to the delights of premium Argentinean beef cooked on a parilla - open fire grill. While the main beef dishes - from the entrana (skirt), lomo (tenderloin) and corazon de cuadril (heart of rump) to tira de asado (short ribs) - may seem straightforward, they are likely the best chance you have of dining on pampas-grazing free-range cattle specially imported from Argentina. The lean and dense meat is full of natural flavour, hence is just lightly dusted with salt before the Argentinean asador (grill chef) expertly grills it on a 5-metre-long manual charcoal grill. The US$25,000 grill was fabricated in Argentina - and though placed in the centre of the restaurant, there is no smoke smell that lingers on clothes even for diners at the counter seating next to the grill.

While beef is the crowning event, you can fill up on several Argentinean mainstays beforehand. Crisp empanadas come in a choice of fillings, such as the humita (sweet corn and cream) and Roquefort cheese and celery - both surprisingly sophisticated. Provoleta is marinated provolone cheese with smoked paprika mayonnaise and oregano - this salty, chewy delight is like a cheese version of steak. Salchicha is another essential menu item - grilled pork sausage with marinated capsicum and lemon vinaigrette spells comfort food in any language. To accompany the meats, simple but appetising sides include sweet potato fries and a beautiful fresh tomato salad. Traditional clay bowls hold three sauces vital to the enjoyment of the meat - these are chimichurri, salsa verde and salsa criolla: respectively made with vinegar, garlic and cilantro; lemon, parsley and basil; and onion and sweet peppers. For dessert, you can't get far from the South and Central American staple of dulce de leche - here, you enjoy it in a flan, or in a crepe with vanilla ice-cream, both deliciously saturated and satisfying after the meats.

Celebrate Argentina's national day at Salta this July - the 4-course dinner on 8 July, 6.30 - 10.30pm, is priced at $80 and includes our favourite main of beef short ribs, barbecued to perfection. $10 more gets you free flow of sangria.

Salta is located at 12 Gopeng Street, #01-56/57 Icon Village, 6225 8443 or www.saltaparilla.com.sg

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