On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, an outdoor handicrafts market takes place during the day on Plaza Independencia, as do smaller fairs in Plaza España and along Calle Mitre. Thursdays through Saturdays, don't miss the excellent outdoor antique market held in Plaza Pellegrini. Regional shops selling handicrafts, leather goods, gaucho paraphernalia, and mate tea gourds line Avenida Las Heras. Two of the best are Las Viñas, Av. Las Heras 399 (tel. 261/425-1520), and Los Andes, Av. Las Heras 445 (tel. 261/425-6688). A classier version of the Argentine souvenir shop is Raíces, España 1092 (tel. 261/425-4118). For high-quality leather, visit Alain de France, Andrade 101 (tel. 261/428-5065) or CuerPiel, Rioja 601 (tel. 261/423-7405). More mainstream stores line Avenida San Martín, and Calle Arístides Villanueva is home to upscale fashion boutiques. The city's best shopping mall is Palmares Open Mall, on Ruta Panamericana 2650 in Godoy Cruz (tel. 261/413-9100). Most shops close from 1 to 5pm each day for siesta. You can also buy Mendocine wines at many shops. The least expensive cost a few dollars a bottle, and premiums go for $25 to $80 (£14-£44). Some of the best wine boutiques in town include Pura Cepa, Sarmiento 644 (tel. 261/423-8282), and Sol y Vino, Sarmiento 664 (tel. 261/425-6005).
