Santiago Llach, a 32-year-old entrepreneur, has recently opened 'Virens', an empanada and plant-based eatery in Palermo, Buenos Aires. Drawing inspiration from his time in Australia, he spent two years perfecting recipes from home before launching his venture. The use of a traditional clay oven allows him to serve a variety of empanadas, including unique options such as the 'Bolonueza', which surprises customers with its cauliflower and walnut filling that mimics the taste of meat.

The 'Virens' menu features innovative and healthier takes on traditional Argentine dishes, including different flavors of empanadas made from locally sourced ingredients. Llach emphasizes the importance of flavor and quality, using traditional spices like paprika and cumin to enhance the plant-based recipes. His goal is to provide something distinct and healthy to the culinary landscape of Buenos Aires, catering to both vegetarians and those looking to reduce meat consumption.

Llach's venture has already sparked excitement within the community in Palermo, where patrons are eager to try his creations. As awareness of health and sustainability in cooking increases, 'Virens' represents a growing trend towards plant-based dining in Argentina, and Llach hopes to expand his business, inspiring others to embrace healthier food choices while enjoying traditional flavors.