Traditional Argentine Dishes to Try in Buenos Aires

When it comes to food in Buenos Aires, the dishes are hearty, flavorful, and often share a deep connection with the land. Let’s dive into some must-try traditional Argentine dishes that should be on your list:

Asado (Argentine Barbecue)

No visit to Buenos Aires is complete without experiencing asado—the iconic Argentine barbecue. This social feast features an array of meats, including beef ribs, sausages, and short ribs, all slow-cooked over an open flame. Often accompanied by chimichurri sauce, asado is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural event shared with family and friends.

Empanadas

These golden, flaky pastries are a classic snack throughout Argentina. Filled with everything from seasoned ground beef and onions to cheese and ham, empanadas are perfect for a quick bite or part of a larger meal. Be sure to try the empanadas salteñas—a local favorite filled with a mix of meat, potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs.

Milanesa

A beloved comfort food, milanesa is similar to a breaded schnitzel. Made with thinly sliced beef or chicken, it’s breaded, fried to perfection, and typically served with mashed potatoes or a simple salad.

Provoleta

This dish is a real treat for cheese lovers. Provoleta is a thick slice of provolone cheese, grilled until golden brown and slightly melted. Often served as a starter with a sprinkle of oregano and chili flakes, it’s the perfect way to begin your Argentine feast.

Top Restaurants in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires boasts a wide range of dining options, from upscale restaurants to hidden gems offering authentic local flavors. Here are a few top spots to check out:

Don Julio (Palermo)

Don Julio is one of the best steakhouses in Buenos Aires, and for a good reason. Known for its perfectly cooked steaks and exceptional service, it’s the ideal place to experience asado. Their wine list is equally impressive, offering some of the best Argentine Malbecs to pair with your meal.

La Cabrera (Palermo)

Another top-notch steakhouse, La Cabrera is renowned for its tender cuts of beef and the iconic parrillada (mixed grill). The portions are generous, and the selection of side dishes, including grilled vegetables and mashed potatoes, is equally delicious.

El preferido de Palermo (Palermo)

For a more modern take on Argentine classics, El preferido de Palermo is a must-visit. This trendy yet cozy restaurant offers creative twists on local dishes, including their signature milanesa and delectable empanadas.

Tegui (Palermo)

For fine dining, Tegui is a Michelin-starred restaurant that combines contemporary Argentine cuisine with international influences. With a focus on seasonal ingredients, their tasting menu offers an innovative and elegant dining experience.

Street Food and Local Markets

In Buenos Aires, the food isn’t just confined to restaurants. The streets and markets offer a unique way to experience the flavors of the city. Here are some top street food and market options:

Choripán

A classic Argentine street food, choripán is a sausage sandwich served on a crusty roll, often topped with chimichurri sauce and a few fresh veggies. It’s a delicious and satisfying snack, perfect for enjoying while walking around the city.

Mercado de San Telmo (San Telmo)

San Telmo is famous for its historic charm and lively market, where you’ll find stalls selling everything from antiques to local delicacies. Try the fresh empanadas or enjoy some traditional choripán while browsing the vibrant market.

La Feria de Mataderos

If you want to experience a true taste of Argentine life, head to La Feria de Mataderos, a market where you can find asado, fresh cheeses, and a wide variety of Argentine meats. It’s an excellent place to sample local delicacies and buy ingredients to take home.

Cafés and Bakeries in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires has a thriving café culture, and you’ll find plenty of spots to enjoy a coffee, pastry, or light meal. Here are a few favorites:

Café Tortoni (Avenida de Mayo)

As one of the oldest and most iconic cafés in Buenos Aires, Café Tortoni offers an atmosphere of old-world charm. Enjoy a cup of café con leche and a croissant while soaking in the historic surroundings.

La Panadería de Pablo (Villa Devoto)

For a true taste of Argentine baked goods, head to La Panadería de Pablo, where you can enjoy freshly baked facturas (pastries), including medialunas (croissants) and churros filled with dulce de leche.

Café de los Angelitos (Balvanera)

Another legendary café, Café de los Angelitos, is a great spot for breakfast or a late afternoon coffee break. Pair your café cortado with a slice of their homemade torta rogel (a sweet, layered meringue cake).

Unique Beverages in Buenos Aires

No meal in Buenos Aires is complete without one of Argentina’s signature beverages.

Yerba Mate

Known for its energizing properties, yerba mate is a bitter, herbal tea enjoyed throughout Argentina. It’s often shared among friends and family, served in a hollowed-out gourd with a metal straw (bombilla).

Argentine Wines

Argentina is famous for its Malbec wines, and Buenos Aires has no shortage of places to try a glass. Many restaurants offer wine pairings with meals, so be sure to ask for a local wine to complement your dishes.

Fernet con Coca

A unique Argentine cocktail, fernet con coca is made with Fernet, a bitter, aromatic spirit, and Coca-Cola. It’s especially popular among locals, who enjoy it as a casual drink during social gatherings.

Desserts and Sweets in Buenos Aires

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Buenos Aires will not disappoint.

Dulce de Leche

This sweet, caramel-like spread is a beloved treat in Argentina. It’s used in everything from cakes to pastries, and you’ll find it in most desserts, including alfajores, delicate cookies filled with dulce de leche and rolled in powdered sugar.

Alfajores

As mentioned, alfajores are an iconic Argentine dessert. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are filled with dulce de leche and often dipped in chocolate or powdered sugar.

Chocotorta

Made with layers of chocolate cookies soaked in coffee and cream cheese, chocotorta is a simple yet incredibly delicious dessert often served at family gatherings and special occasions.