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Gioia Cocina Botánica 2024 Review: Michelin-Selected Plant-Based Excellence in Buenos Aires

  • Writer: Corey Jones
    Corey Jones
  • 3 days ago
  • 2 min read

Gioia Cocina Botánica, the crown jewel of Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt, continues to redefine luxury vegan dining in Buenos Aires with its 2024 botanical menu. This Michelin-selected restaurant, under the visionary leadership of Chefs Julián Galende and Kenyi Heanna, transforms Argentine-grown mushrooms, heirloom vegetables, and ancient grains into avant-garde plates that challenge BA's meat-centric culinary traditions.


Why Gioia's 2024 Menu Stands Out


  • 100% plant-based with zero animal products

  • New standout dishes: Mushroom Pastacotti (23,500 ARS) and Tomato Carpaccio (22,500 ARS)

  • Snack menu (4-7PM): Mushroom tacos (14,900 ARS) and cauliflower nuggets (12,200 ARS)

  • Sustainable sourcing: Organic carrots from Cachi, La Mancha leeks, Peruvian yellow peppers


The 2024 Tasting Journey: Must-Order Dishes


Starters & Sides

  • Brioche Bread (13,000 ARS): Fluffy vegan brioche with chimichurri butter and pickled vegetables–arguably the best bread offering in Recoleta.

  • Dolma (22,500 ARS): Swiss chard leaves stuffed with black garlic tahini, a sophisticated reinterpretation of Middle Eastern classics.


Mains

  • Mushroom Pastacotti (23,500 ARS): Oyster mushroom "ravioli" in onion nectar, a masterful exploration of vegan umami.

  • Tomato Carpaccio (22,500 ARS): Heirloom tomatoes with cashew bocconcini, a contemporary take on the classic caprese.


Desserts

  • Rhapsody (17,500 ARS): Raspberry-chocolate dome with almond crunch, plating worthy of Michelin recognition.

  • Purple Wine (17,500 ARS): Malbec-poached plums with blackberry gel, a distinctly Argentine creation.


The Culinary Philosophy: Global Inspirations, Sustainable Execution

Chefs Galende and Heanna’s vision introduces:

  • Japanese influences: Onigiri (22,500 ARS) with beetroot furikake

  • Thai fusion: Buckwheat Pad Thai (23,500 ARS) with tamarind-glazed tofu

  • Zero-waste cocktails: Featuring carrot-top garnishes and lemon peel syrups


Essential Details for the Discerning Diner

  • Location: Av. Alvear 1661, Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt (modern tower)

  • Reservations: Recommended 2+ weeks in advance for dinner; walk-ins accommodated for snacks

  • Dress Code: Smart casual (collared shirts preferred after 6PM)


Final Verdict

  • For plant-based diners: The mushroom tartar (22,500 ARS) demonstrates how plants can achieve remarkable decadence.

  • For traditionalists: The corn cake (22,500 ARS) may well surpass expectations of traditional beef empanadas.

  • For all discerning diners: Gioia 2024 represents Buenos Aires' most compelling culinary innovation.


Pro Tip: Visit between 4-7PM for half-price snacks. The alfajor (14,000 ARS) stands as Argentina's premier vegan interpretation of this classic dessert.

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