According to the specialised website Taste Atlas -a bible in its own right-, Argentina, Mexico and Peru are the countries in the region where the most exquisite food can be found. The city of Buenos Aires, in particular, continues to position itself as one of the most important tourist centres in the country, for its culinary diversity, for the quality of the raw materials, for the variety of restaurants and styles in its infrastructure, and for the warmth and hospitality of the people of Buenos Aires towards tourists. This atmosphere of pleasant encounter that is generated in every corner is what seduces visitors, who come from all over the world. More and more porteño neighbourhoods are joining the list of foodie districts, foodies so here is a mapping of the most notable poles, to understand and make the most of the wonderful catalogue of delicacies that Buenos Aires offers, a culinary culture in whose core the undeniable European influences -mostly Italian and Spanish - cross with Creole traditions, those of the continent itself and that plus that gives the rich Argentine soil to produce the best beef in the world.
Puerto Madero
Here, on the docks where more than a century ago steamships full of Italian and Spanish immigrants docked, today there is an elegant residential district and a modern and sophisticated gastronomic promenade, the product of the remodelling of the old English-style docks that made up the port of Buenos Aires back in 1900. Already consolidated as one of the most luxurious neighbourhoods in the city, its long promenade, populated with cuisines and aromas, can leave more than satisfied the 3,5 million tourists that visit it every year, since the offer is wide and infallible: from fresh seafood to pampa meats roasted over quebracho firewood; from signature cuisine to the noble delights of the most traditional canteens; from sushi restaurants to Italian trattorias, all palates, even the most demanding, find their perfect alchemy here. The experience also guarantees extraordinary panoramic views from the many windows, whether by day, with the sun turning the river into a mirror, or by night, with the reflection of the neon lights dancing on the water.
Recommended
- SOTTOVOCE. Delicious Italian dishes, from homemade pasta to fresh seafood.
- OSAKA. Nikkei fusion restaurant that combines Japanese and Peruvian cuisine in creative and high-quality dishes.
- LA PAROLACCIA TRATTORIA. Authentic Italian food with fresh and tasty pasta in a warm atmosphere.
- LA BISTECCA. Italian style, wood-fired oven, hearty and tasty dishes at affordable prices.
- EL MERCADO DE PROVENZA. 100% Argentine food. Excellent empanadas and asado. Informal and cosy atmosphere.
- SIGA LA VACA. A classic Argentine grill restaurant with a buffet option at a fixed price. An economical option for those looking for a variety of meat cuts and side dishes.
San Telmo
A gastronomic feast in the charming historic centre of Buenos Aires. Its cobbled streets and colonial buildings create a bohemian and welcoming atmosphere that captivates visitors. Here, in San Telmo, traditional proposals are combined with the most experimental ones and the result is a fabulous catalogue of flavours, which includes grills tended by old masters of the fire, traditional restaurants and definitely gourmet options. Of course, the magic of the neighbourhood is not only in the food, as it is also home to inspiring cafés and historic bars, where you can enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine while watching the incessant flow of passers-by and hundreds of tourists who stroll along the narrow pavements captivated by the windows of antique shops, saddleries, gift shops and art objects. The mixture of flavours, colours and aromas in San Telmo creates an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Recommended
- EL DESNIVEL and LA BRIGADA. One of the best steakhouses in Buenos Aires.
- EL BANCO ROJO. It went from being a small place to having a lounge and a patio that fills up at all hours, especially for its empanadas and its curious sauces.
- GRAN DABBANG. Asian and Latin American cuisine in creative and surprising dishes.
- HIERBABUENA. Delicious and healthy options for vegetarians and vegans.
- AMICI MIEI. Italian food with a wide selection of handmade pasta and pizzas.
- LA CHORIPANERÍA. For a real choripán, a more Argentine snack than tango and dulce de leche.
- CASAL DE CATALUNYA. Exquisitely prepared Catalan food.
Barrio chino
Located in the Belgrano'sdistrict , Barrio Chino of Buenos Aires is a unique cultural enclave and gastronomic paradise. This vibrant district offers a fascinating culinary experience, where Chinese and Argentine traditions merge. The streets of Barrio Chino are filled with vibrant colours, exotic aromas and an infectious energy. Here you can enjoy a wide range of restaurants, markets and shops selling Asian products that transport the traveller to another continent. The menu ranges from authentic Chinese restaurants serving dim sum and a la carte dishes, to street stands that stand out with delicacies such as dumplings and baozi. A must-visit for flavour explorers and lovers of colourful and lively streets.
Recommended
- LAI LAI: Recognized for its Chinese and Asian cuisine. Excellent dumplings.
- FUJISAN. Japanese, Asian, sushi and fusion food.
- BAO KITCHEN. A trendy place to try delicious baozi (steamed buns) with innovative and tasty fillings. Authentic gourmet Asian food.
- CHINA ROSE. Well-prepared Chinese food and hearty dishes, such as chow mien or mien zhen.
- RESTAURANTE CHINATOWN. Cantonese and Asian cuisine, homemade and tasty dishes such as fried rice and lemon chicken.
Microcentro
Known as the financial and commercial epicentre of the city, this district offers a variety of traditional restaurants and eateries to satisfy the most discerning diners. The pulse of this area is continuous, whether during the day in the Bajo area - with its streets full of office workers and tourists - or around the clock in the vicinity of the famous and mythical Obelisco. From fast-food options to high-end restaurants, microcentro treasures Porteño classics and alternatives that perfectly reflect the Argentine and Porteña culinary identity.
Recommended
- EL CUARTITO. Iconic pizzeria offering authentic Argentine pizza, with its famous fluffy dough and generous amounts of cheese and toppings.
- LOS INMORTALES. Legendary pizzeria with Italian roots. Its menu of homemade meat and pasta dishes also stands out.
- EL PALACIO DE LA PAPA FRITA. Classic restaurant, one of Astor Piazzolla's favourites. Its crunchy soufflé fries and homemade dishes, such as milanesas and empanadas, stand out.
- EL ESTABLO PARRILLA. An authentic Argentine grill offering delicious grilled cuts of meat, chorizo criollo and traditional side dishes.
- CAFÉ PAULÍN. Tasty and plentiful menus, an infinite variety of exquisite sandwiches and a show of dishes sliding down the elongated granite bar.
Recoleta
A bit of Paris in Buenos Aires, due to its architectural similarity, which is at the same time the setting for one of the best gastronomic proposals in the city. Despite being the oldest pole, its culinary appeal continues to grow with the passing of time and it has been able to adapt to market trends, although classics such as La Biela still remain. Here you will find everything: signature restaurants, gourmet bistros, historic cafés and international options. Recoleta also has beautiful terraces and open-air spaces, perfect for enjoying a meal or a drink in a charming environment, populated by tourists and locals in search of flavours and fun.
Recommended
- FERVOR. Haute cuisine specialized in quality cuts of meat and gourmet dishes.
- LA BOURGOGNE. Refined French cuisine, exquisite dishes and an impressive wine list.
- OVIEDO. Fresh seafood and fish full of subtlety and flavour.
- CAFÉ LA BIELA. A café with historic charm serving classic Argentine cuisine, such as empanadas and cuts of meat.
- CASA SALTSHAKER. Delicacies of Peruvian and Mediterranean cuisine.
- THE FOOD TRUCK STORE. Affordable chain with outdoor tables, beer and burgers.
Las Cañitas
Located between the neighbourhoods of Palermo and Belgrano, Las Cañitas has always been known for its excellent gastronomic offer. It is a privileged corner of the city, around which a series of first class restaurants have been installed, always ready to satisfy the needs of those who choose them. The fact that Las Cañitas remains ‘hidden’ in a residential area next to the Palermo polo fields gives it an additional charm and a certain character of an urban village designed to enjoy music, design and, above all, good food.
Recommended
- LA DORITA. A traditional steakhouse offering prime cuts of meat and a wide variety of grilled options in a rustic and cosy atmosphere.
- DASHI SUSHI BAR. Ideal for sushi and Japanese food lovers. Wide selection of rolls and creative dishes.
- LA COLORADA. Typical grill and quick meal restaurant. Plentiful and tasty dishes. Moderate prices.
- CAMPO BRAVO. 100% gluten free Steakhouse & International Cuisine.
- LAS CHOLAS. Steakhouse, barbecue, Argentinian and South American food. Recipes from the Altiplano.
- FEDERAL CERVECERIA INDEPENDIENTE. Empanadas, burgers, music and quality beers on the terrace.
Palermo
This neighbourhood, highly frequented by both tourists and locals in search of fun, has an endless supply of first class bars and restaurants, and some of the most classic and well-known names for the porteños. What is now called Palermo Hollywood and Palermo Soho (bounded by Av.Juan B. Justo, Dorrego, Av.Santa Fe and Av.Córdoba) is one of the most fun and exclusive neighbourhoods in Buenos Aires. A gastronomic paradise, where you can find everything from signature restaurants to traditional grills, trendy atmosphere, international cuisine and fashion. The gastronomic proposals are abundant and varied: haute cuisine, traditional restaurants, cafés, pubs... With tree-lined streets and a large number of open-air terraces, it is an ideal neighbourhood to enjoy a meal in the sun or a drink in the evening.
Recommended
- LA CABRERA. A renowned Argentine steakhouse offering delicious cuts of meat, accompanied by homemade side dishes and sauces, in a cosy and lively atmosphere.
- SIAMO NEL FORNO: Excellent wood-fired pizzas, with a thin, crispy dough, and fresh, tasty toppings.
- ARTEMISIA. Vegetarian and vegan cuisine offering healthy and tasty options.
- NIÑO GORDO. Asian fusion food. Variety of Thai and Vietnamese inspired dishes. An exotic gastronomic experience.
- EL PREFERIDO DE PALERMO. Classic Buenos Aires restaurant that combines traditional Argentine dishes with an authentic and warm atmosphere.
- CUCINA PARADISO. Italian cuisine and homemade dishes, from fresh pasta to risottos and pizzas.
- LA MAR. Cevichería that offers a selection of Peruvian dishes with fresh fish and seafood.