We (Dana and Rachel) arrived in Buenos Aires two days ahead of the group to take in the sights, markets, neighborhoods and restaurants. We took full advantage of all the culinary delights (steak and Malbec) that Buenos Aires has to offer.

After two days in Buenos Aires with the group and without a proper steak we all decided a second dinner was in order. Following an overcooked meal at a tango club, we brought the group to La Brigada, where we had the world’s best cuts of steak just days earlier. Our private room allowed us to be as loud (and stereotypically American) as we could be. After ordering three bottles of red deliciousness and an entire cow’s worth of meat we awaited our meal – hoping that our group would enjoy the cuisine as much as we did.

Soon multiple cuts of meat arrived on thick wooden trays and the waiters cut the tender beef with spoons (yes, it was that tender) to divide the portions. Nicole even tried her first bite of steak. All agreed that the meat and wine were superb. And all soon slipped into heavy food comas. It was the best second dinner any of us had ever had.

We figured out the reasonable tab – under $25 per person for an indulgent dinner. A line of taxis waited for us outside the restaurant for our trip across town back to our hotel.

Stay tuned for our second second dinner update when we bring the group to La Cabrera on Friday.

From August 22-29, 2010, 11 alumni of Cornell University will volunteer with the Jewish community of Argentina.