Contemporary Latino and Classic French Cuisine at Entre Campanas

Entre las Campanas (Between the Bells) opened in the upscale Hotel Los Pasos on Calle 9 in June. Classic French and Contemporary Latin cuisine (not fusion) is served in an elegant dining room with a fireplace. The restaurant, around the corner a few blocks from Cafe No Se, is a collaboration between Jean Paul of JP’s RumBar and gourmet chef Luis Molina, who mastered the art in Buenos Aires.

The name came to them while they were on the rooftop terrace and heard the bells of St. Francis Cathedral and the ruins of another nearby colonial church ringing on either side. Breakfast is particularly pleasant on the terrace, with charming views of churches, volcanoes and cross on the hill.

A corner fireplace sets off the elegant dining room, where an effigy of St. Francis and other trappings lend a Colonial feel with a contemporary flavor. The hotel itself is both stylish and lush, with spacious suites and rooms.

The Harvest Soup and chicken breast with a spicy Oaxacan sauce were delicious, and so was dessert, making me want to return soon and try the new entrees that are on the way. A fine wine list tops off one of the finest gourmet meals I've had in La Antigua, or across Guatemala, for that matter.

Location: 9th Street and Calle Los Pasos, near 1st Avenue