Argentina provides an array of unique dining experiences. From rustic flavors of Patagonia to refined takes on traditional fare, Argentina provides an extraordinary dining experience.
At this beloved local spot, patrons enjoy dining from a parrilla libre–an overflowing platter of expertly grilled steak cuts and sausages–with impeccable service and refined menu selections such as Tegui’s seasonal tasting menu that showcases high-quality Argentine ingredients prepared with international techniques.
1. La Mezzetta
In Buenos Aires there are numerous pizza joints considered among the finest in Argentina. Their lengthy queues attract both locals and visitors eager to sample their world-famous menu items; among these is La Mezzetta which is famous for their Fugazzeta pizza as well as having outstanding customer service.
La Mezzetta can be found on Avenida Corrientes, which serves as one of the cultural centers in Buenos Aires. Although there is no seating inside, guests must order and pay from outside and pick up their pizza from a counter – leaving a tip called “la propina” which the attendants greatly appreciate upon ordering.
The pizza at Pizzeria Baxa in Buenos Aires is delicious, featuring a crispy and charred crust topped with delicious mozzarella cheese. Additional toppings may include anchovy, ham and onion or spinach with white sauce for an authentic experience when visiting this vibrant city. Don’t miss this experience when visiting!
Bandini is one of Buenos Aires’s iconic restaurants, serving classic and modern Italian fare in a stylish environment. Famous for their delicious pliable dough that doesn’t stick, excellent ingredients (such as Las Dinas cured meats) and creative flavor combinations – customers love coming here.
2. Chori
Buenos Aires cuisine goes beyond steak and dulce de leche; the city boasts an array of culinary treats that are just as delectable and culturally significant. These include chorizo – an irresistibly delicious sausage that Argentines enjoy eating with everything from eggs and potatoes to pickled vegetables – empanadas (breaded meat cutlets) that go far beyond sandwiches or pastries; asado (a barbecue feast featuring various cuts of beef); sweets created from Argentina’s obsession with dolce de leche created an abundance of delectable pastries and cakes which delight.
Chori, a Palermo Soho eatery that specializes in artisanal sausages, has given traditional chori de cancha and grilled chivito dishes a modern update by experimenting with flavor combinations like red hot (rocoto chilli, tomato, ginger) or veggie (aubergine, spinach, goat’s cheese and honey). While purists might consider their variations sacrilegious, Chori is clearly working out the kinks to develop its own unique style of chori.
At Chori in Confiteria Ideal, they serve up delicious sausages, milanese, empanadas and sweets that we found absolutely delectable – especially their famous chori! With its great balance of sweet, salty and savory flavors. Also highly recommended is their pork belly cheese sausage called the Chivito which we found equally delectable.
3. Narda Comedor
Narda Lepes of Argentina founded her veggie-forward restaurant in 2017 to demonstrate why plant-based cuisine was the way of the future. Since then, her efforts have paid off: Her restaurant has made two appearances on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants lists and her name has become household in Argentina.
At this restaurant in Belgrano, diners will embark on a culinary journey that marries Argentine traditions with fresh ingredients from around the region and world. Enjoy starters such as seared red tuna in almond gazpacho garnished with raspberries and arugula sprouts; as well as main courses like veal tenderloin with potatoes and chimichurri made with Brazilian manioc flour for entrees; finish your meal off with sophisticated banana split featuring coconut ice cream, gingerbread flakes and Cognac-infused cream for desserts!
Lepes’ creative cuisine reinvents traditional Argentine dishes by reinventing them with seasonal ingredients. Her Cebolla Braseada con Crema de Papas features braised onions nestled into a creamy potato puree accented with herbs; her Berenjena Asada Apanada offers breaded eggplant that has been spiced for flavor; other popular choices are Churrasquito de Cerdo with tender pork marinated with aromatic herbs or Langostinos a la Griega which features succulent prawns cooked up in garlic and basil sauces.
Chila stands out with an innovative menu and its distinctive location in a former port warehouse that has been renovated, providing stunning city views while you dine. Enjoy their elegant, sleek interior as you take in its amazing view.
4. Mercado San Telmo
Mercado San Telmo is the oldest barrio of Buenos Aires and an irreplaceable piece of Argentine culture, boasting cobblestone streets adorned with cafes, tango shows and historic houses that provide visitors with the ideal atmosphere to experience its distinctive spirit.
The market offers an abundance of fresh food and artisan products, as well as carnicerias, verdulerias and pescaderias offering meat from all across Argentina and produce from all corners. You can also experience traditional Argentine cuisine at restaurants, tango bars and cafeterias nearby – from tasty empanada saltenas to delectable milanesesas!
Mercado San Telmo provides more than local cuisine; there is also an impressive array of international fare available here. Middle Eastern stalls serve delicious falafel or hummus while Italian pasta restaurants specialize in creamy tomato-based sauces. Sweet lovers will appreciate all sorts of dulce de leche treats like alfajores or sweet-coated churros coated in sugar for dessert!
The market is open every day and offers many unique stalls. To avoid crowds and enjoy live music and street performances at nighttime, visit in the morning when it is less crowded; alternatively evening offers live performances. Please bring cash as some vendors do not accept credit cards.
