Argentinian Chef Recalls Cooking for Pope Francis in NYC

A Special Meal for Pope Francis

• 👨‍🍳 Ismael Alba, an Argentinian chef and owner of Buenos Aires restaurant, was chosen to cook for Pope Francis during his 2015 NYC visit.
• 🍋 The meal included grilled chicken with lemon, as the Pope was on a special diet.
• ☕ Pope Francis also requested an espresso and was described as very nice, sweet, humble, and funny.

Pope Francis's Humility and Simplicity

• 📿 The Pope gifted Alba a rosary.
• 😔 Alba expresses sadness about not expecting another Argentinian pope in his lifetime but feels good about Francis's impact.
• ✨ He considers Pope Francis one of the best popes due to his humility, lack of jewelry, and avoidance of luxury.
• 💰 The Pope reportedly declined expensive shoes offered to him, emphasizing a simple approach to wealth.

The Role of the Church

• 📖 Alba reflects that the church, and by extension the Pope, should serve all people, especially the poor and marginalized.
• ⚖️ He believes the church's focus should be on those who need it most, not on accumulating wealth.