The story
At SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites, the restaurant La Vida offers a dining experience that is as thoughtful as it is delicious. Located in the Chacras de Coria district of Mendoza, this intimate restaurant is part of Susana Balbo’s first hotel, a century-old mansion that has been transformed into a boutique retreat.
Chef Flavia Amad leads the kitchen, creating a menu that is deeply rooted in the landscape of Mendoza while drawing inspiration from the hotel’s signature art piece, the Tree of Life by Argentine artist Sergio Roggerone. The result is a tasting menu—available in four, seven, or fourteen courses—that translates the painting’s elements—roots, trunk, flowers, birds, branches, fruits, and insects—into edible form. As Chef Amad explains, the artwork allowed her team to “play with our creativity and translate the work into dishes where the protagonists are the products of Mendoza and Argentina.”
This is haute cuisine with a clear sense of place. Traditional Argentinian ingredients are treated with precision, and the kitchen prioritizes sustainable, organic sourcing. Each course is designed to be interpreted by the guest, building a narrative that unfolds slowly over the meal. Wine pairings naturally feature Susana Balbo’s celebrated vintages, bringing the region’s winemaking heritage directly to the table.
La Vida is not a standalone destination; it is an integral part of the SB Winemaker’s House experience, which has earned a Michelin Recommended distinction in 2026. The property itself is a member of Relais & Châteaux and has been recognized by National Geographic Traveller as a Food Hero, praised for its “unforgettable gourmet experiences.” For those seeking a refined yet unpretentious taste of contemporary Argentine cuisine in Mendoza, La Vida delivers a meal that feels both personal and profound.
Recognition
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