Restaurant in Remote Argentine Town Becomes Perfect Getaway Attraction

In the once-remote town of Los Cardales, a culinary oasis named Chizza has blossomed, transforming the area into a sought-after destination. Nearly two decades ago, chef Franco Malacisa and his wife Cecilia Domínguez took a leap of faith, opening their restaurant in a place characterized by dirt roads and difficult access. Their audacious bet has paid off, as Los Cardales is now a vibrant getaway spot, largely thanks to the establishment they created.

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When we decided to open the restaurant, we knew the place was the quality of life we wanted; we have our house next door, the park, our children coming in and out of the dining room, friends we've made.

Malacisa's journey to Los Cardales was driven by a desire for rootedness. After an extensive international career that included stints in Italy, Scotland, London, and even Moscow, he returned to Argentina. A visit to his father in Los Cardales led him to discover an old mansion, sparking the idea for Chizza. With initial support from his mother-in-law and unwavering conviction, Malacisa meticulously shaped the property into a restaurant designed, in his words, "to make people happy."

The restaurant itself is housed in a restored 1890s mansion, preserving original features like the mud walls and ceilings. Chizza opened its doors in March 2008, financed through Malacisa's savings from his international work. The establishment champions honest cuisine, blending innovative techniques with a strong focus on quality ingredients. The signature dish, osso buco braised in malbec with carnaroli risotto and parmesan cheese, exemplifies this philosophy.

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When we opened, I told Cecilia, 'We'll never be millionaires, but we'll be rich in the number of friends we'll have.'

For Malacisa, Chizza represents more than just a business; it's a lifestyle. He shares, "When we decided to open the restaurant, we knew the place was the quality of life we wanted; we have our house next door, the park, our children coming in and out of the dining room, friends we've made." He fondly recalls telling his wife, "We'll never be millionaires, but we'll be rich in the number of friends we'll have." This sentiment underscores the restaurant's role as a community hub and a testament to their achievement.

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a place to make people happy.