From Big Apple Dreams to Buenos Aires Delights: Discovering Big Mamma, A New York-Style Deli Experience

Imagine yourself unwinding alfresco at a classic New York-style deli, nestled right in the vibrant heart of the Big Apple. The city’s pulse thrums around you, a symphony of yellow cabs, distant sirens, and the animated chatter of passersby. In your hands, a ceramic mug still cradles the comforting warmth of a freshly brewed cappuccino, its rich aroma mingling with the crisp autumn air. Beside it, on a quaint, checkered plate, lies a pastrami sandwich, half-eaten, its layers of thinly sliced, peppery meat peeking out from between slices of dark rye bread. You gently lift your gaze from the captivating pages of your current read, allowing your eyes to lazily wander across the bustling street. Here, tall, impeccably dressed New Yorkers stride purposefully along the sidewalk, each exuding an effortless elegance, all bathed in the golden glow of the afternoon sunshine.

New York, New York. A city that lives vividly in imagination.

Though I’ve yet to set foot in this iconic metropolis, my mind paints a picture of a quintessential afternoon in the city. It’s a captivating blend of serene luxury and unceasing activity, where charming cafes and bustling delis flourish, coexisting harmoniously with countless fast-food establishments and Michelin-starred restaurants. My envisioned New York is a melting pot, an eclectic mosaic of cultures. I imagine a sea of millions of faces, each distinct yet blended together, with countless languages spoken simultaneously, fusing into a gentle but intensely energetic buzz that defines the urban soundscape.

This vivid imagery of New York is largely constructed from cinematic classics like Sex and the City and The Devil Wears Prada, interwoven with Elizabeth Gilbert’s soulful portrayal of the Big Apple in Eat, Pray, Love. In this mental landscape, I picture Starbucks branches adorned with festive Christmas decorations, and an abundance of charming eateries perfect for brunch. Places where one can effortlessly order a perfectly toasted bagel sandwich and a steaming cup of coffee, find a comfortable spot, and simply watch the world, or rather, the wonderfully diverse crowd, go by.

Bringing New York to Buenos Aires: Our Brunch at Big Mamma

Before my imagination carries me too far into my idealized version of New York, let me bring you back to a tangible, delightful experience – the memorable brunch Juan and I enjoyed last Sunday at Big Mamma in Buenos Aires. You might be wondering, and rightfully so, how I traversed from the bustling streets of New York to a charming eatery in Argentina.

The connection, you see, is quite fascinating. I visited this particular Buenos Aires-based deli on the enthusiastic recommendation of my esteemed cooking professor, Pelusa Molina. Apparently, the owner of Big Mamma was a student of hers nearly thirty years ago. He embarked on a culinary journey that led him to open a New York-style sandwich deli, which has since flourished into a resounding success over the past few decades. Having never actually stepped foot in the USA (unless one counts a brief transit through Hawaii), and being geographically quite far from New York City itself, the prospect of experiencing a slice of the “Big Apple” right here in South America was simply irresistible. So, when Pelusa shared details about this hidden gem in the affluent Belgrano neighborhood (specifically at Juramento 2156, Buenos Aires), I eagerly convinced Juan to join me for a culinary adventure.

First Impressions: The Charming Ambiance of Big Mamma Deli

Upon arrival, Big Mamma immediately struck me as a grand, inviting house, complete with a generously sized front patio perfect for alfresco dining. The outdoor seating area, with its lush greenery and comfortable arrangements, exuded a welcoming, relaxed vibe that beckoned diners to linger and enjoy the pleasant Buenos Aires weather.

Despite the undeniable charm of the patio, we ultimately opted for indoor seating. Buenos Aires, known for its sometimes intense summer heat, was experiencing a full-blown warm spell that day, and the promise of air conditioning was simply too appealing to pass up. Stepping inside, we were greeted by a spacious, well-lit interior. Tall glass windows and walls allowed bright beams of natural sunlight to stream in, creating a captivating “greenhouse” illusion. This abundant natural light not only illuminated the space beautifully but also uplifted our spirits, making the dining area feel open, airy, and wonderfully cheerful.

Juan and I quickly settled into some incredibly comfortable couches – they were an absolute delight for lounging and unwinding, though perhaps a tad challenging when it came to gracefully consuming a large sandwich! Once comfortably ensconced, we eagerly delved into the extensive menu. It was a pleasant surprise to find such a diverse selection, going far beyond typical deli fare. The offerings ranged from classic sandwiches and comforting pasta dishes to hearty steaks, complemented by an impressively long and tempting dessert list. It promised a culinary journey for every taste bud.

The Culinary Journey Begins: Appetizers and Main Courses

The Appetizer: Freshly-Baked Bread with a Heavenly Dip

Our meal commenced with an exquisite appetizer: a basket of freshly-baked, warm bread served alongside a truly delightful dip. This creamy concoction was a harmonious blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh parsley, and a hint of garlic. The bread was wonderfully soft and airy, with a perfect crust, while the dip was, as the caption suggests, truly heavenly – a rich, tangy, and aromatic accompaniment that perfectly whetted our appetites for the main event.

Embracing the Deli Tradition: The Star Sandwich

I must admit, I’ve never been a particularly ardent fan of sandwiches, at least not as a complete, satisfying meal. However, given that Big Mamma is renowned for its New York-style deli sandwiches, I felt compelled to embrace the tradition and try their signature offering. My choice was the illustrious “Big Fresser’s Hot Pastrami on Rye.” As its name vividly describes, it was a colossal pastrami sandwich generously piled high on classic rye bread, accompanied by refreshing coleslaw and a serving of Kartoffelsalat (German potato salad). Juan, on the other hand, opted for a tenderloin sandwich, though sadly, I wasn’t quick enough to capture it on camera before he began to enjoy it. From his rather reserved comments, I gathered it didn’t quite achieve the same level of culinary delight for him as my choice did for me.

Big Fresser’s Hot Pastrami on Rye: A Flavorful Experience

My pastrami sandwich was an absolute masterpiece, practically overflowing with an abundance of perfectly cooked, succulent pastrami strips. Each bite was a celebration of rich, savory flavors, and I relished every moment of it. However, this wholehearted enjoyment came with a slight caveat: the sheer saltiness of the pastrami left me with an insatiable thirst that no amount of water seemed capable of quenching. Despite this minor challenge, the sandwich was undeniably delicious, far exceeding my initial expectations. I typically prefer my coleslaw a little less yellow, but its taste was familiar and pleasant. Juan, a true connoisseur of potatoes in all their forms, thoroughly enjoyed the Kartoffelsalat, perhaps even more than I did. Overall, I’d confidently rate the Big Fresser’s Hot Pastrami on Rye a solid 7.5 out of 10, a truly commendable effort for a deli outside of New York itself.

A Sweet Ending: The Unforgettable Apple Ratatouille

Apple Ratatouille: A Zesty and Sweet Revelation

Having conquered the impressive sandwich, it was time to move on to the eagerly anticipated dessert course. After carefully perusing the varied and enticing list of sweets, we decided on the unique “Apple Ratatouille.” This wasn’t a savory dish as the name might imply, but rather a luscious dessert composed of slow-cooked apple shreds. These apples were wonderfully infused with the bright, vibrant juices and fragrant zests of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, further enhanced by a subtle hint of rum. A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream crowned this exquisite creation.

For both Juan and me, this was a completely novel culinary experience. The sophisticated combination of the fruity sourness from the citrus with the comforting sweetness of the cooked apples was unlike anything either of us had ever tasted. The rum added a warm, subtle depth, while the whipped cream provided a luxurious creaminess. It was, without exaggeration, highly addictive – a perfect balance of flavors and textures that left us craving more. I wholeheartedly give this innovative and delicious dessert a stellar 9 out of 10.

The Verdict: Is Big Mamma Worth the Journey?

Value and Experience: A Slice of NYC in Buenos Aires

In terms of pricing, Big Mamma wasn’t exactly a budget-friendly option. Our meal came to approximately 125 Argentine pesos per person, which translates to about USD 20 at the time of our visit. Thankfully, we benefited from a generous 20% discount with our Club La Nacion card, making the final bill significantly more palatable and less of a blow to the wallet. However, it’s clear that patrons flock to Big Mamma not just for the food, but for the immersive experience – to soak in that distinctive “Big Apple” ambiance. Many, I believe, are quite willing to pay a slight premium for the unique opportunity to be momentarily transported (even if only in imagination and through taste) to the vibrant streets of New York City.

While I can’t definitively say if delis in actual New York are exactly like Big Mamma, I was utterly charmed by the restaurant’s cozy, homey feel. It’s the kind of place where you can easily while away an entire afternoon, leisurely savoring a hearty sandwich or indulging in a delightful dessert. I was particularly enamored with the “greenhouse effect” – the way the natural light flooded the entire restaurant, boosting my mood and creating a wonderfully bright and airy atmosphere. Combined with the festive season just around the corner, the experience truly swept me up into a joyful holiday spirit.

Final Recommendation: Discover Your Own NYC Moment at Big Mamma

For anyone seeking a unique culinary experience in Buenos Aires, especially those with a longing for the iconic flavors and atmosphere of a classic American deli, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting Big Mamma at least once. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to relax, bask in the abundant sunlight, and let your imagination whisk you away to a make-believe New York City, all without ever leaving the charm of Belgrano.