La Estancia Argentina Flair in the UM / Jackson Health District
Photos By Jason Hesch
Hungry in the health district. For those who work at in the hospital district, La Estancia Argentina has opened up a new location. Their other location is located in North Miami Beach. Who likes meat? I know I do, and with a friendly smile, attentive service, and bright blue shirts a good meal is what you will get.
For starters, wet your palette with some cheese and cured meat. We were served ham and prosciutto on a full marble table while taking in the sights and sounds of the La Estancia Argentina surroundings. A wine shelf divides the place into the dining seating area on one side and the deli counter on the other. Order something to go, freshly sliced meats, or a coffee or pastry. Perfect for busy med students on the go.
Maybe it’s because I’m a Miamian influenced with South American culture, but I always love having a breakfast of empanada, quiche, and a coffee. For starters, we were served a sampling of Argentinean comfort food. First, a mini Choripán, a flavorful sausage sandwich between two baguette rolls. On the table, one can dress up their food with a condiment of salsa or chimichurri sauce, but none is necessary to enjoy this piece of food. Next, the spinach tart. Hot, succulent and creamy with a flaky delicate crust. If that didn’t hit the spot, munch down on a threesome of four cheese, beef, and chicken empanada. It surely reminds me of the corner bakery. The chicken and beef seasoned just right. 
The entree was a parrillada or barbecue picnic plate, complete with field greens and balsamic vinaigrette and potato salad with hearty peas and carrots. Served with a blood sausage and sweet potato fries for the sides. Three selections of meat were served, each giving a taste from a juicy lean cut to a tender marble cut. No matter what your meat preference is I’m sure you will find a cut to your liking. From fattiness to firmness, first was the short rib, full flavor of meat and fat on the bone. In the middle was the skirt steak. A delicious balance of fat to meat ratio, tender like filet mignon. Finally, the picanha. This cut had a generous sliver of fat along one edge. Being the leanest and firm as compared to the other cuts, I personally like these kinds of cuts and still delicious piece.
Dulce de Leche fans rejoice. This assorted pastry dessert is all about its celebration. Similar to American caramel, but unlike it process cousin this is the real deal. A Thick, gooey, and sweet viscous of it is sandwiched between the different sweets. We have macaroon coquito, a arrollado, cinnamon roll like with coconut flakes, and two kinds of alfajor (shortbread cookies). One with starch and coconut flakes, the other smothered with powder sugar. These decadent little pastries is a great way to finish your meal at La Estancia. You may even want to top it all off with a shot of espresso.