Among Ōamaru’s many attractions – think penguins, a steampunk presence and a Victorian precinct – top of the list has to be Cucina. This is where we find Argentinian ambassadors Yanina and Pablo Tacchini, who bring a love of their homeland to all the food that they so cleverly do. Pablo also brings a CV that includes Meredith’s and Riverstone Kitchen. Their declared intention is to create a restaurant filled with great food, beer and wine along with, most importantly, enjoyable times – and that is indeed what they do. From the menu, the locro – an Argentinian-style soup packed with pumpkin, beans, corn, homemade chorizo crumb and more – is a sure-fired way to acquaint yourself with Cucina. That’s just for starters. Pastas (house-made) and dry-aged meats declare their strenuous presence, too. It is to our great good fortune that the Tacchinis chose to make this North Otago town their home. We are happy to visit any time.