Plaza Rotary and Another Restaurant

Since our arrival we have been living with a suitcase on each side of the bed in order for Nicholas to access it. Even though a chest is on order, it will still be weeks before its arrival. Mick suggested that we go to the Rotary market to browse for something that would work. We had looked in furniture stores and found nothing that would be adequate.

Plaza Rotary is the market that sells inexpensive furniture, some homemade, baskets, crafts, household and farm items. Our search ended with the little lady below. Her simple pine bench would do, but it was too tall. She summoned for someone in the distance named Diego, who appeared with a saw and shortened the legs. As he sawed, she sanded, surprisingly, it was level.

It is not beautiful, but functional. When the chest arrives, this will work on the terrace.

We also found to large vases to use on the hall tree. The hall trees here have inserts at the base for umbrellas; however, collapsible Totes don't work there. These work very nicely. The two were $20.

The Yanacuy, which is the river across the street from our building, is always a busy place. Yesterday, in addition to the children playing, cows were also grazing.

Laundry was also being done. Usually, the wet clothes are carried away; however, this family made a day of it and dried there clothes on the rocks.
The afternoon was sunny and warm. Mick and Nick took advantage of it on the terrace.


Last night Henry picked us up for dinner at an Italian restaurant, Mangiare bene. It is extremely quaint and is located on Estevez de Toral y Simon Bolivar. As with all the restaurants that we have patroned, service was impeccable. The food was delicious. Mick and Henry began with onion soup. Mick said that is was the best that he has had in Cuenca. This is one of his favorites and it has been a problem here. We've been so swamped, I haven't had time to make it. He said that the onions were actually cooked and the soup was thick. The mozzarella on top was of good quality.

We also had salad, which was somewhat ordinary. The garlic bread was tasty. Mick had spaghetti bolognese, which he raved about. Henry had sorrento with pancetta; sorrento is giant ravioli. I had spaghetti with pesto which was also delicious. We highly recommend Mangiare if you're looking for good Italian food. The atmosphere is pleasant, with a "homey" feel. You can see the chef working in the kitchen from the dining room.

It was another great day in Cuenca.

Until next time,

Mick and Kathy