This restaurant sits adjacent to the Rico Hotel and offers a refined dining experience in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Chef O’Hara previously served as Executive Sous Chef at the renowned Hotel Bel Air in Los Angeles, where he worked alongside Wolfgang Puck.
Beyond his impressive resume, Chef O’Hara is also a warm and attentive host. This was our second stay at the Rico Hotel and Argentine Grill, and the restaurant remains a local favorite for guests who prefer thoughtful, well-prepared meals rather than quick, casual fare.
We were seated on the side porch just as the sun slipped behind the peaks. The hostess arrived promptly with our drinks and a basket of fresh bread. I chose the pasta special: penne tossed in a roasted pepper sauce with zucchini, arugula, and tender beef tips. The beef literally melted on the tongue, and the vegetables were perfectly crisp-tender. The sauce was exceptional—rich and complex, far beyond anything from a jar. The arugula added a distinctive, peppery brightness that elevated the dish.
For dessert I couldn’t resist the chocolate cake. I remembered it fondly from a previous visit and this time it surpassed my expectations—moist, rich, and perfectly balanced. I enjoyed it so much that I neglected to take a photo this visit; the image above is from last year.
Service throughout the evening was friendly and attentive without being intrusive. The ambiance on the porch at sunset made the meal feel special and relaxed at the same time.
If you appreciate carefully prepared dishes, thoughtful service, and a cozy atmosphere, Argentine Grill at the Rico Hotel is well worth a visit. I’m already counting down the days until I return.