Must-see restaurants in Argentina

  • Comedor La Plaza

    Parque Esteros del Iberá

    A friendly diner on the plaza serving standard Argentine fare and pizzas. During the day they prepare a traditional set meal.

  • Zarza

    San Antonio de Areco

    Serving Argentine staples with a twist, this popular restaurant offers plenty of inventive pasta options for vegetarians.

  • El Manantial

    Córdoba & the Central Sierras

    Decent Argentine food and great views out over the river. Portions are big and service is quick, if somewhat impersonal.

  • Freddo

    Ushuaia

    One of Argentina’s most-loved gelato shops has opened its doors in snowbound Ushuaia – and suddenly it’s summer.

  • Mama Mia

    Mendoza

    Simple trattoria, good option for those looking for steak on a budget, especially for the set lunch (AR$150).

  • Sol y Luna

    Córdoba

    A fantastic selection of vegetarian offerings. Pay by the kilo or choose from the limited selection of set meals.

  • La Bodeguita

    Coastal Patagonia

    A popular stop for meats, pasta and seafood, this restaurant boasts attentive service and a family atmosphere.

  • La Cocina de Zulma

    Mendoza & the Central Andes

    Small, homey family-run spot several blocks south of the town center. Simple menu of grilled meats and pasta.

  • El Encuentro

    Atlantic Coast

    Set in a glorious period building, this kitchen specializes in regional empanadas for takeout and dining in.

  • El Astiqueno

    Mendoza & the Central Andes

    Simple eatery with a good range of parrilla offerings, including chivito (baby goat).

  • Panaderia Don Luis

    El Calafate

    Medialunas (pastries) and much more are available at this enormous bakery.

  • Puerto Mitre

    Coastal Patagonia

    The place for pizza and classic Argentine empanadas – staple traveler fare.

  • La Parolaccia del Mare

    Puerto Madero

    Branch of the popular Parolaccia pasta chain specializing in seafood dishes.

  • Roca Llisa

    Mendoza & the Central Andes

    Empanadas and grilled meat are the specialties at this casual outdoor spot.

  • La Morocha

    Mendoza & the Central Andes

    Basic, no frills eatery with tasty empanadas and good-value set meals.

  • La Salteñita

    Bariloche & the Lake District

    For spicy northern empanadas, try this cheap rotisserie.

  • Tante Sara

    Ushuaia

    Offers nice pastries and weekend brunch.

  • Taberna Española

    Atlantic Coast

    Once locally renowned for fine Spanish-style seafood, new ownership has soured its reputation. It still looks the part, with an exposed brick bar, beamed…

  • El Solar del Convento

    Salta

    This well-decorated and popular touristy choice is long on atmosphere, although the food tends to disappoint. It specializes in lomo (sirloin) with a…

  • El Rancho

    Cafayate

    Among the string of hit-and-miss options around Cafayate's plaza, this place has a short, simple menu of local dishes, including locro (spicy stew), plus…

  • Espigón de Pescadores

    Mar del Plata

    Located out on the fishing pier, this seafood restaurant offers great water views. The menu runs through typical offerings of meat, pasta and seafood, but…

  • Loncomilla

    Bariloche & the Lake District

    Locals will tell you that this place has seen better days, as evidenced by the poorly cooked meats, pasta that purports to be homemade but isn't and the…

  • La Abuela

    Inland Patagonia

    Shoehorn yourself into this family nook decked out in lace tablecloths, and enjoy cheap gnocchi, homemade pasta and home-cooked classics like puchero …

  • María Castaña

    Inland Patagonia

    A favorite at this frilly cafe is waffles with dulce de leche. It’s good for breakfast, sandwiches and ice-cream sundaes, and also serves more substantial…

  • Chocolates

    Coastal Patagonia

    Ice-cream junkies will appreciate this parlor’s selection of velvety chocolate and rich dulce de leche flavors. If you’re traveling with children, bring…

  • Fortín

    Iguazú Falls

    Well located near the Paseos Inferior and Superior falls walkways, this offers a mediocre and overpriced buffet spread with parrilla choices. A beer on…

  • Mostaza

    Coastal Patagonia

    Modern fast food with extensive hours and decent versions of the basics: sandwiches, salads and burgers. Features neat and minimalist decor and a…

  • Rock Chicken

    Bariloche

    Late-night munchies? Midday junk-food cravings? The beef, burgers and fried chicken here won’t be winning any culinary awards, but they get the job done.

  • Kaserita

    Inland Patagonia

    Meals can be taken from Kaserita, essentially a fresh pasta kitchen with folding-chair seating.

  • La Anónima

    El Calafate

    Head to La Anónima for cheap deli take-out and groceries.

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