Food & Dining in Buenos Aires
From world-class parrillas to cozy cafes, discover the best of Argentine cuisine and dining culture. Real recommendations from expats living here.
Argentine Cuisine: What to Expect
Argentine cuisine is heavily influenced by Italian and Spanish immigrants, with beef playing a central role. Expect generous portions, late dining hours, and a strong cafe culture.
Beef is king. Vegetarians need to seek out specific spots.
Coffee is social. Expect to linger over a cortado.
Lunch at 1-2pm, dinner at 9-11pm. Adapt or be alone.
Best Parrillas (Steakhouses)
| Restaurant | Neighborhood | Price | Specialty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Don Julio | Palermo | $$$$ | Bife de chorizo | World-famous, book weeks ahead |
| La Cabrera | Palermo | $$$$ | Ojo de bife | Upscale, generous portions |
| El Desnivel | San Telmo | $$ | Vacío | Local favorite, no frills |
| La Brigada | San Telmo | $$$ | Asado | Touristy but good |
| Parrilla Peña | Recoleta | $ | Choripán | Budget-friendly, authentic |
| El Preferido | Palermo | $$$ | Provoleta | Hip atmosphere, great wine |
Pro tip: Book Don Julio and La Cabrera well in advance (weeks). For authentic local experiences, try El Desnivel or Parrilla Peña - no reservations needed.
The Empanada Guide
Argentina's favorite handheld food. Each region has its style - Salta-style (baked, smaller) vs. Tucumán-style (baked, larger) vs. Cordobesa (sweet dough).
Ground beef, onions, olives, eggs
MediumHam and cheese
MildShredded chicken
MildTomato, mozzarella, basil
MildCorn, cheese, onion
MildSpinach, cheese
MildWhere to find the best: El Sanjuanino (Recoleta), La Cocina (Palermo), or any neighborhood empanada shop with a line
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
While Argentina is meat-heavy, Buenos Aires has a growing veggie scene. These spots cater specifically to plant-based diets.
Creative veggie dishes, cozy
Upscale vegan, beautiful space
Health-focused, organic wine
Chinese-Argentine veggie, cheap
Middle Eastern flavors
General tip: Most restaurants have at least one vegetarian option (usually pasta or a milanesa de soja). Vegan is harder - use the HappyCow app to find dedicated spots.
Cafe Culture
Coffee is a social ritual in Buenos Aires. The city is famous for its historic cafes (bares notables) and growing specialty coffee scene.
Oldest cafe, tango shows
Beautiful stained glass
Writer's favorite
Best specialty coffee
Serious coffee, no WiFi
Price Guide (USD)
| Item | Cheap | Mid-Range | Upscale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Empanada (each) | $2-3 | $3-4 | $4-6 |
| Coffee at café | $2-3 | $3-5 | $5-8 |
| Lunch (menu del día) | $5-8 | $8-15 | $15-25 |
| Dinner for two (mid-range) | $30-50 | $50-80 | $80-150 |
| Parrilla dinner (per person) | $15-25 | $25-45 | $45-80 |
| Pizza (whole) | $10-15 | $15-25 | $25-40 |
| Bottle of wine (restaurant) | $8-15 | $15-30 | $30-60 |
Food Delivery Apps
Most popular, wide selection
Strong restaurant network
International chains
Groceries + restaurants
Tip: Delivery apps require a local phone number. You can pay with cash (efectivo) or link a credit card. Tipping delivery drivers is appreciated but not mandatory - round up or add $1-2.
Grocery Shopping
- Carrefour: Largest chain, good selection
- Coto: Local favorite, competitive prices
- Día: Budget option, basic selection
- Jumbo: Premium, imported goods
- Whole Foods-style: Dietéticas for organic/health
- San Telmo Market: Touristy but good
- Belgrano Market: Local, great produce
- Chinatown (Belgrano): Asian ingredients
- Neighborhood ferias: Best prices, fresh
- Ask locals: "¿Dónde está la feria?"
What Reddit Says (The Honest Version)
"Food is NOT as cheap as YouTubers claim anymore. A decent meal out is $15-25 per person. Groceries are comparable to US prices for many items. The beef is still a bargain though."
- r/digitalnomad, 2024
"Dinner at 9pm is EARLY. Most Argentines eat at 10pm or later. If you show up at 7pm, you'll be eating alone."
- r/argentina
"Skip the tourist parrillas in Puerto Madero. Go to El Desnivel in San Telmo or any neighborhood parrilla with locals. Half the price, twice the authenticity."
- BA resident, 3 years
Hungry for More?
Explore neighborhoods with the best food scenes and discover local favorites you won't find in guidebooks.