Having spent the day exploring the streets of old Colonia, I read up on the recommended restaurants in Colonia and narrowed it down to El Drugstore. Stopping here for an early evening dinner, I was drawn in by the polka-dot tablecloths and bright interior. Although there is outdoor seating with views across the Plaza de Armas and vintage cars – I was seated inside amongst an array or art and sculptures.

The food is good but it is the atmosphere and setting which makes it. The city is a mix of Portuguese, Spanish and Uruguay and the food served here encapsulates all of it.

The menus is vast but the specials board is enough – I ate of the board and had incredible homemade gnocchi – tossed in a spicy tomato sauce with chilli shrimp and lobster.