A Culinary Journey with Francis Mallmann in Uruguay
In recent years, Uruguay has quietly become a hotspot for mouthwatering cuisine and vibrant cultural heritage, with exquisite wines, friendly locals, and a laid-back lifestyle. Its pinnacle – Pueblo Garzón, a once-sleepy rural village that has been lovingly transformed by Argentine master chef Francis Mallmann into a world-class culinary retreat.
This eight-night adventure has been created and developed by Mallmann himself to connect travellers with this extraordinary destination. With Mallmann as your shepherd and teacher, you’ll visit locations that reveal the vibrant culinary traditions and cultural richness of rural Uruguay – along the way, absorbing his wisdom and mastering the art of open-fire cooking.
Each experience highlights a thoughtfully curated selection of Francis Mallmann’s favourite spots in this small yet diverse country, offering a rare insight into its heart and soul.
DATES
2026 TBC – contact us to be added to the waiting list
PRICE
Starting from $25,000 per person
GROUP SIZE
8 – 14 people
HIGHLIGHTS
- Open fire cooking classes led by the legendary chef Francis Mallmann. Learn the techniques that define his acclaimed Seven- Fires cuisine
- 5 nights and 6 days accommodation at Casa Anna, a charming country home, restored by Francis, with warmly decorated suites, views of a verdant garden filled with native trees and agapanthus flowers. An inviting outdoor pool, and attentive bar service with unusual cocktails awaits your daily return.
- Active pursuits like hiking, biking, and horseback riding with the local gauchos: the perfect way to see the beauty and charm of the Uruguayan countryside.
Day by Day
DAY 1: ARRIVAL
Arrive in Uruguay, transfer to the picturesque village of Pueblo Garzón and check into Casa Anna, where your adventure begins – a private country house in the village, personally restored by Francis to create an exclusive retreat that inspires creativity and awakens your senses.
DAY 2: THE ART OF OPEN-FIRE COOKING
Kick off your culinary adventure with a session on open-fire cooking in the town, then enjoy a relaxing afternoon wandering through the beautiful gardens of Casa Anna, or taking a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool. Dinner will consist of a delicious wood-fired meal, preparing your tastebuds for the culinary delights to come.
DAY 3: BODEGA GARZON, TOP OF THE WORLD
Start your day with a hike around the area, taking in the breathtaking landscapes surrounding the town and ending at Bodega Garzón. Set on a rocky outcrop, the winery provides sweeping views of the hillside vineyards. Enjoy a guided vineyard hike led by a local birding expert, then a well-deserved lunch prepared by Francis. The afternoon offers various activities, from bike rides to the local ‘Pulperia’ to a relaxing yoga session.
DAY 4: FISHING
Today you’ll take a private boat trip to fish in a tranquil local river, gliding alongside towering white sand dunes with the scent of the Atlantic in the air. Today’s culinary focus is on fresh, local seafood – a feast of blue crab, local shrimp, and whatever else you catch. Fires are lit along the riverbanks for you to enjoy your meal and share stories with Francis and your fellow guests while the sun sets.
DAY 5: HORSE RIDING & BEACH RELAXATION
Today, head out for an exhilarating ride on local criollo horses, starting from the northern side of Laguna Garzón. Cross rural prairies and private estancias, passing by lakes teeming with capybaras, otters, local “ñandues”, and deer along the way. End your journey at the exclusive Chiringuito Beach Club, where you can spend the rest of the afternoon swimming in the ocean and dining on fresh seafood.
DAY 6: JOSE IGNACIO
The morning is set aside to explore the town of Jose Ignacio and the surrounding area. Choose between a bike ride to town, a fishing experience with a local angler, or a visit to the MACA museum of contemporary art and Sculpture Park. We will reunite to enjoy a beach lunch at the famous “La Huella”. During the evening, enjoy a special fire-cooked dinner at dusk at the Garzon Train Station, and learn about the days when throngs of visitors would descend by train on the village for local festivals.
DAY 7: THE FINAL FEAST
Today, set off on a hike, horseback ride, or carriage ride to Francis Mallmann’s farm. Tucked away in the hills of Garzón, Francis has crafted a sanctuary of simple elegance, adorned with shelves of books, a roaring fireplace, and stunning views of the countryside. This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends the beauty of nature with the artistry of Mallmann’s Seven Fires. Reflect on your week’s adventures during this farewell event and celebrate the culmination of an extraordinary journey.
DAY 8: FAREWELL
Bid farewell to Casa Anna and the charming village of Pueblo Garzón. You will be transferred back to the airport for your departure, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your gourmet adventure in Uruguay.
Where You’ll Stay
Casa Anna is an idyllic country home, restored by Francis, comprising seven warmly decorated suites with views of a verdant garden filled with native trees and agapanthus flowers.
Days here begin with extensive breakfast spreads, followed by fantastic lunches. Dinners are at handpicked locations including three of Mallmann’s top culinary venues: the acclaimed Garzón restaurant, the seaside Chiringuito, and the winery restaurant at Bodega Garzón.
After the days’ activities, waiting for you back at Casa Anna is an inviting outdoor pool, and attentive bar service with unique cocktails.
INCLUDED
- Private transfers from/to Jose Ignacio
- 7 nights accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- All food & beverages
- Cooking classes with Francis Mallmann
NOT INCLUDED
- Gratuities throughout
- Optional tours not mentioned in your itinerary
- Travel insurance
- Visas (if applicable)
Interested in arranging a private adventure with Mallmann for yourself or a group? Simply speak to our travel designers about putting together a bespoke journey.
