They wanted to know where to get quinoa, the protein-rich seeds of a high-altitude plant native to the Andes but used primarily in Mexican cooking. It resembles couscous but is much more nutty. I had to admit defeat in finding a European source but did manage to put them in touch with an old friend in Chile who could arrange direct shipment. Ever since that episode, I had wanted to try their food and as I had time before my VDZH appointment—now was the opportunity. The partners greeted me cordially. One was Mexican and the other his brother-in-law was English. The former was the chef and the Englishman ran the restaurant. It was a delightful place. The dining areas were on three levels and the walls and richly detailed ceilings were painted cream with a blue trim. Strikingly colourful wall hangings of Mexican tapestry decorated the walls and agaves stood in the corners. I explained that I wanted a meal of several small courses so as to sample as many different dishes as possible.