Buenos Aires Food – What to Eat
Enjoying Buenos Aires food is one of my favorite things to do when visiting this vibrant city. First of all, the food tastes fantastic here, and consequently, you will want to eat a lot! This overview will give you a good idea of the top foods that are an absolute must. So put on your stretchy pants and get ready to indulge in some of the best food in Buenos Aires.
When you’re ready to go Booking.com can help you quickly book your trip.
Quick disclosure: Content may include affiliate links. I *only* recommend products/services I love and think you will, too! Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What is the Most Popular Food in Buenos Aires?
One of the most beloved foods in Buenos Aires is without a doubt, steak. Argentina is famous for its high-quality beef and asado (barbecue) culture. The steaks here are cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and juicy center. You can find this mouth-watering dish at almost every restaurant in the city.
Influences and Origination of Buenos Aires Food
Buenos Aires food is a true melting pot of cultures and influences. With its rich history and diverse population, the city’s cuisine has been shaped by Italian, Spanish, French, German, and indigenous flavors. This unique blend has resulted in an explosion of flavors and culinary traditions that are distinctly Argentinean.
Book Amazing Food Tours Here!
Must-Try Foods in Buenos Aires
Now let’s get down to business – the food! Here are some of the best food in Buenos Aires to try when visiting.
Typical Foods in Buenos Arires
Asado & Steak
High-quality beef is a trademard for Argentina, and the best way to experience it is through an asado (Argentine barbecue). Asado is a social event where friends and family gather to enjoy various cuts of grilled meat, typically accompanied by an assortment of side dishes such as salads, vegetables, and bread. It’s a must-try for meat lovers and a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Of course steak is a must for the Argentine people and you can find it everywhere. You can enjoy steak at any of the numerous parrillas, or steakhouses, located in Buenos Aires. One of the most popular ones is Don Julio, so it is wise to make a dinner reservation in advance if you plan to go.
Try the Milanesa
Milanesa is a dish I did not understand when it was first explained to me. I believe it is a cross between Chicken Parmesan and German Schnitzel. Living in Texas, chicken fried steak came to mind, which is a typical dish of Texas German families. Buenos Aires has many citizens who are direct descendants of German and Italian families, so, unsurprisingly, everyone loves Milanesa. It’s basically breaded beef, chicken, or soy that’s fried. It can be served with a fried egg on top.
Buenos Aires Pizza
Have I mentioned that the food is delicious in Buenos Aires? Well, guess what? The Pizza is outstanding, too! The many Italian immigrants who settled in Buenos Aires brought their love of pizza with them as well. Consequently, the Argentines put their own spin on it! How do you describe Buenos Aires’ pizza? Think of Naples, Italy, pizza with a slightly thicker crust and double the cheese. It’s just heaven! Buenos Aires is famous for steak, but the local’s favorite is pizza.
Savor some Medialunas
Medialunas, also known as a croissant to most worldwide, are a staple in Buenos Aires with a morning coffee. I have enjoyed Medialunas; they are certainly better than an everyday croissant. This incredible breakfast or afternoon treat is slightly sweet and light and melts in your mouth. You will be sad if you do not try them, so I suggest picking up a few extra and taking them home to extend the beautiful memories of your trip.
Savor the Bread
The bread is fantastic, and most restaurants will bring a basket to the table, and you can’t say no. I’m not sure how they do it, but I have just never had such wonderful breads. For that reason, you must try the bread.
The buns, the croissants, the empanadas, the sandwiches, the pizza dough, it is all simply outstanding! If you eat bread in Buenos Aires, you enjoy one of the top foods.
Buenos Aires Street Foods
Enjoy Choripan
Another of the top foods to eat in Buenos Aires is Choripan. Oh my goodness, Choripan and Empanadas in Buenos Aires are the BEST! While these are not fancy dinner options, they are an experience you must try on your visit.
Choripan is a Chorizo sausage in a baguette, and you can add Chimchurri sauce for extra flavor. You will find Choripan in tourist areas from street vendors, sporting events, and restaurants.
Empanadas Please!
One of the most iconic foods to try in Buenos Aires is empanadas. These savory-filled pastries can be found all over Argentina, with each region having its unique twist on the classic recipe. In Buenos Aires, you will find empanadas filled with a variety of delicious ingredients such as beef, chicken, cheese, and vegetables. Don’t forget to try the traditional chimichurri sauce alongside your empanadas for an extra flavor.
I recommend trying Empanadas Brozziano because they are superb and cheap! We stumbled upon this place while shopping around Florida Street. If you go, there will be a long line because this is where you get great empanadas! Definitely purchase a few to go also! There are a multitude of other establishments throughout Buenos Aires where you can get amazing empanadas.
Tostadas – A Delicious Breakfast Option
If you are looking for a tasty breakfast option in Buenos Aires, look no further than Tostadas. These toasted sandwiches with various fillings such as ham and cheese or tomato and mozzarella are popular among locals. You can find them at most cafes or bakeries throughout the city, making it an easy grab-and-go meal to start your day.
Best Areas to Sample Street Foods?
When trying street food in Buenos Aires, my favorite areas are as follows. One is San Telmo’s famous market, where you can find all sorts of delicious snacks and treats from local vendors.
La Boca neighborhood is also a must-visit for its vibrant street food scene, with colorful stalls serving everything from churros to choripan (a traditional Argentine sandwich with grilled sausage).
When you’re ready for ice cream, head to Palermo Soho, where you can find artisanal ice cream shops and pastry stands.
Indulge in Some Sweet Treats
Savor Some Ice Cream (Helado)
You will feel the European influence in Buenos Aires everywhere. As a result, Italians brought gelato, among other things, to Buenos Aires, and locals loved it. Over the years, many of these families have experimented to create unique flavors for Buenos Aires.
But don’t be fooled by the abundance of options because not all gelato is created equal! When finding the best ice cream in Buenos Aires, head to Helados Freddo. This local favorite has been serving delicious gelato since 1969 and offers a wide variety of flavors.
Eat Alfajores
Alfajores are sandwich cookies with dulce de leche in the middle. Alfajores are extremely popular in Argentina, and once you try one, you will see why. The treat consists of two shortbread-type cookies, only not as sweet. Dulce de Leche, caramel wonderfulness, is the most common filling, and many varieties have different chocolate coatings. They are simply Heaven in your mouth. Enjoying Alfajores is one of the experiences you must try in Buenos Aires. Furthermore, they make great gifts to take home to friends and family.
Dulce de leche
If you have a sweet tooth, Buenos Aires is the place for you! The city is known for its delicious sweets, and one of the most popular treats is dulce de leche. This creamy caramel-like spread can be found in many desserts such as alfajores (dulce de leche sandwich cookies) and flan. You can even try an indulgent dulce de leche-filled churro for an extra special treat.
Chocolates
Buenos Aires is also home to some of the best chocolate in the world. With influences from European chocolatiers, you can find a variety of high-quality chocolates in all shapes and sizes. Some popular options include Havanna’s alfajores covered in chocolate or Mamusia Chocolate’s artisanal bars. Make sure to pick up some chocolates as souvenirs for friends and family back home.
What to Drink in Buenos Aires
Yerba Mate
While in Buenos Aires, you must try their traditional drink, Mate. It is a type of herbal tea made from the leaves of a South American holly tree. The taste may be somewhat bitter initially, but it grows on you with time. Yerba mate has become essential to Argentina’s culture and daily life, much like coffee or tea in other countries. Walking through the streets of Buenos Aires, you will often see locals sipping on this drink from a gourd-shaped cup with a metal straw called a bombilla. It is quite the experience to join in on this cultural tradition and savor the unique taste of Mate. You can find Yerba mate in any grocery store, as well as in cafes and restaurants.
Malbec Wine
Argentina is renowned for producing some of the best wines in the world, particularly their signature grape variety, Malbec, which can be found in the Mendoza region.
Malbec grapes and wine were initially from France but were introduced to Argentina by Miguel Pouget in the late 1800s. Over the years, Argentina has become known for having the best Malbec wine. Although Malbec wines are produced in numerous countries, including France, USA, and Chile, they are widely known for their popularity in Argentina.
Fernet and Coke
Fernet is an Italian herbal liqueur that has become a staple in Buenos Aires. It is often mixed with cola, creating a refreshing and slightly bitter drink called “Fernet con Coca.” This combination may sound strange, but it has become a beloved beverage in Argentina.
Cafe Con Leche
Order a cafe con leche (coffee with milk) to taste Argentina’s coffee culture. This drink is similar to a latte but with a slightly different preparation method. Argentine coffee is known for its rich and intense flavor, making it a must-try for any coffee lover. You can find cafe con leche at cafes and restaurants throughout the city.
A Unique Cultural Excursion: The Argentine Experience in Buenos Aires
Looking for an offbeat and memorable adventure? Then don’t miss out on ‘The Argentine Experience’. It’s a meal and an entire evening dedicated to immersing you in the vibrant Argentine culture. This interactive event brings you together with other globe-trotters in an atmosphere of fun and learning.
As part of the experience, your taste buds will go on a culinary journey through Argentina with a five-course feast of local specialties, each dish meticulously paired with exquisite local wines. The highlight of the evening is the hands-on empanada and Mate classes, an integral part of the Argentine dining tradition. You’ll have a blast learning to craft your mouth-watering empanadas, brew the perfect Mate, and assemble delightful alfajores. And the best part? You get to relish the fruits of your labor! This is more than just a dinner; it’s a fun-filled cultural exchange you’ll cherish long after your trip to Buenos Aires.
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
Fun Facts About Buenos Aires Food
- The national dish of Argentina is asado, a traditional barbecue that usually includes various cuts of meat, sausages, and vegetables.
- Buenos Aires has the highest number of pizzerias per capita outside of Italy, so be sure to try some delicious Argentine pizza during your visit.
- Dulce de leche, a thick and creamy caramel spread made from condensed milk, is a staple in many Argentine desserts.
- Argentina is among the top producers and consumers of yerba mate, a caffeine-rich herbal tea often shared among friends and family.
- Traditional dinner time in Buenos Aires is much later than the rest of the world. During the week, dinner is usually past 7 p.m., and on weekends, it might be well past 9 p.m.
Final Thoughts
Buenos Aires is a melting pot of different cultures, and its food scene is no exception. From traditional Argentine dishes to international cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. I know you are ready to book your trip today to enjoy all this wonderful Buenos Aires Food!
For more fun ideas of things to do on your trip, check out Experiences You Must Try in Buenos Aires. Additionally, you may also enjoy a Pictorial Essay of Colonia del Sacramento.
Looking for Unique Gift Ideas? Click Here to Shop! Prints, Canvas, Novelties & More!
Happy Travels and also don’t forget to subscribe to our mailing list to get updates on all the latest posts!
If you enjoyed this post, please subscribe to my email-list. I’ll send you monthly emails with only the good stuff- NO SPAM I promise. You can also follow my travels on Instagram @followsoots_lisa. Thanks for your support!
