Best Places to Eat in Buenos Aires Argentina

Foodie Paradise: A Taste of the Best Street Food and Restaurants in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a city that pulsates with life, culture, and delicious food. From classic Argentine asado to mouthwatering empanadas and vibrant alfajores, there’s something for every palate.

For the true BA experience, don’t miss out on these popular street food options:

  • Empanadas: These savory pastries are a must-try in Buenos Aires. You can find them everywhere, from street vendors to upscale restaurants. They come in various fillings like beef, chicken, cheese, and vegetables, but the traditional “carne” (beef) empanada is a classic for a reason!

  • Choripan: This simple yet delightful combination of chorizo sausage and crusty bread is a staple at any Argentine festival or gathering. Look for vendors grilling up juicy choripan on the streets, especially near stadiums on game days.

  • Asado (BBQ): While you can enjoy this in restaurants, experiencing an asado in its traditional setting - cooked outdoors over an open fire and shared with friends - is a unique and delicious way to immerse yourself in local culture.

  • Pizza: Buenos Aires has a vibrant pizza scene, with options ranging from classic Neapolitan-style pizzas to more Argentinian-inspired variations.

  • “Parrilla” (Grill): From traditional “parrillas” (streetside BBQ joints) to trendy restaurants, BA offers a range of “asado” experiences.

Beyond the Street:

Buenos Aires has a lot more to offer than just street food. Here are some other local favorites:

  • Asado at its Finest:

    • Don Julio: A classic steakhouse known for its high-quality cuts and traditional atmosphere. Expect a lively scene and a focus on Argentine beef techniques.
    • La Cabrera: This popular “parrilla” offers an upscale experience with a variety of Argentine meats grilled to perfection.
    • El Preferido de Palermo: This restaurant serves up delicious pizzas in a casual and cool setting.

  • Beyond the “Parrilla”:

    • Asado (BBQ) is a Culinary Experience: Buenos Aires is known for its “parrillas” (barbecues) where they cook meat over an open fire. The slow-cooked, smoky flavors of the traditional asado are something you need to experience!

Here’s why BA street food is so special:

  • Asado Culture: Buenos Aires’ culinary scene is heavily influenced by its love for “asado”. While the classic Argentine BBQ is a treat at any time, it’s also a popular choice for street food.

  • Accessibility and Flavor: Buenos Aires’ “parrillas” (grills) are often mobile and set up in parks or plazas, offering locals and tourists alike a chance to savor the smoky goodness of this traditional cooking method.

    • Parilla La Pampa: This iconic spot serves up delicious grilled meats with a focus on fresh ingredients and Argentinian traditions.

  • Beyond “Asado”:

Street Food Options:

  • Street Asados: Look for “asados” set up in popular areas, especially on weekends, offering a variety of grilled meats like chorizo (sausage), mollejas (sweetbreads) and asado de tira (short ribs).
  • Parrillas with Traditional Techniques: You’ll find many “parrillas” using wood-fired grills to cook their meat, providing that traditional Argentinian smoky flavor.

Popular fillings for your “asado” experience:

  • Beef (Carne): Argentinians are known for their love of asado, a traditional barbecue that often includes chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), asado de tira (short ribs), and various cuts of meat like asado de cerdo (pork roast) and milanesa (breaded beef cutlets).
  • “Choripan”: A staple of the “Asado” experience, a juicy, grilled “choripan” is a delicious sandwich made with chorizo sausage and chimichurri sauce.

Beyond Traditional:

  • Empanadas: A classic Argentinian street food, these savory pastries are filled with various ingredients, both traditional and modern. Popular options include beef (carne), chicken (pollo) and cheese (queso) combinations.
  • “Choripan” stands: These are often found near stadiums and offer a variety of “choripanes” (sausages served on bread) with different toppings like chorizo, chimichurri, onions, peppers, and even potatoes for a unique twist.

Don’t forget the “asado” is just one example of the delicious food culture in Buenos Aires!