The Ultimate Food Guide to Buenos Aires: Where to Eat Like a Local

Buenos Aires is a paradise for food lovers. The city's culinary scene reflects its diverse cultural influences, from Italian and Spanish to indigenous and modern fusion. Here's your guide to eating like a local in the Argentine capital.

Must-Try Traditional Argentine Dishes

Asado (Argentine BBQ)

No visit to Buenos Aires is complete without experiencing an authentic asado. This traditional barbecue features various cuts of meat cooked on a parrilla (grill), typically accompanied by chimichurri sauce. Some of the best parrillas in the city include Don Julio in Palermo, La Cabrera in Palermo Soho, and El Desnivel in San Telmo.

Empanadas

These savory pastries are filled with meat, cheese, corn, or other ingredients. Each region of Argentina has its own style of empanada, but in Buenos Aires, you'll find a wide variety. Try them at El Sanjuanino in Recoleta or La Cocina in San Telmo.

Milanesa

Similar to a schnitzel, milanesa is a breaded and fried meat cutlet, usually made with beef but sometimes with chicken or veal. It's often served with french fries or as a sandwich (milanesa completa). Café San Juan in San Telmo serves an excellent version.

Dulce de Leche

This sweet caramel-like spread is used in many Argentine desserts. Try it in alfajores (cookie sandwiches), on toast for breakfast, or in helado (ice cream). Freddo and Persicco are popular ice cream chains that offer excellent dulce de leche flavors.

Neighborhood Food Guides

Palermo

The trendy neighborhoods of Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood are home to some of the city's most innovative restaurants and cafés. During our Palermo Soho & Hollywood Tour, you'll discover hidden gems and local favorites in this gastronomic hotspot.

• Don Julio - One of the city's most famous parrillas, known for its excellent steaks and wine selection.
• Café Birkin - A stylish café serving specialty coffee and delicious brunch options.
• Las Pizarras - A cozy bistro with a daily-changing menu written on chalkboards.

San Telmo

This historic neighborhood offers traditional bodegones (taverns) alongside modern eateries. Our Classic Buenos Aires Tour includes San Telmo, where you can learn about its culinary history.

• El Desnivel - An unpretentious parrilla serving authentic Argentine steaks at reasonable prices.
• Bar El Federal - A historic café notable (notable bar) with classic Argentine dishes and drinks.
• Mercado de San Telmo - A market with various food stalls offering everything from empanadas to international cuisine.

Recoleta

This upscale neighborhood features elegant restaurants and cafés. While exploring the famous Recoleta Cemetery on our Recoleta Cemetery Tour, you can also discover the area's culinary offerings.

• La Biela - A historic café notable with outdoor seating under a massive rubber tree.
• Fervor - An elegant restaurant specializing in seafood and grilled meats.
• El Sanjuanino - Known for its excellent empanadas and traditional Argentine dishes.

Drinking in Buenos Aires

Mate

This traditional herbal tea is a cultural institution in Argentina. While it's primarily consumed in homes and parks rather than restaurants, you'll see locals carrying their mate gourds and thermoses throughout the city.

Wine

Argentina is famous for its Malbec wines, but you'll find excellent Cabernet Sauvignon, Torrontés, and other varieties as well. Visit wine bars like Pain et Vin in Palermo or Aldo's Vinoteca in Monserrat for tastings.

Fernet con Coca

This bitter Italian liqueur mixed with Coca-Cola is surprisingly popular in Argentina. Try it at any bar in the city for an authentic local experience.

While exploring Buenos Aires with BA EXPLORE's walking tours, don't hesitate to ask your guide for personalized restaurant recommendations. Our local guides know the best places to eat in each neighborhood and can suggest options based on your preferences and budget.