Top 5 Places to Eat in Buenos Aires

Written by David Garcia, Keith Roberts, Maria Gaulto
05/08/2025
Stunning aerial view of Buenos Aires featuring the National Congress and iconic architecture.
Matheus De Moraes Gugelmim, Pexels

Buenos Aires offers a captivating and diverse culinary landscape, deeply rooted in its celebrated grilled meats while showcasing the rich influences of European immigration through its pastas, pizzas, and a growing array of international and modern dining options. The city caters to a broad spectrum of diners, from food enthusiasts seeking high-end experiences to those looking for authentic, affordable local flavors.

1. Don Julio

Cuisine: Traditional Argentine Parrilla (Steakhouse)

Don Julio is a legendary steakhouse in Palermo, celebrated for its high-quality, grass-fed Argentine beef, aged for 21 days to enhance tenderness and flavor. The atmosphere feels warm and rustic, with walls adorned with wine bottles signed by past guests. Before being seated, patrons are often offered complimentary sparkling wine and small empanadas. Signature dishes include the Bife de Chorizo (sirloin steak), Ribeye, and Tomahawk, all expertly grilled over a wood fire and accompanied by house-made chimichurri. Portions are generous, with one steak often sufficient for two people. It is essential to make reservations well in advance, often 90 days out, but some walk-in opportunities may exist later in the evening.

Price: High-end. Main steaks around ARS 60,000 - ARS 80,000 for a one-person or shared portion (approximately $50 - $67 USD as of early 2025). A full meal for two with wine can be around ARS 240,000 (approximately $100 - $120+ USD per person).

Getting There: Located in Palermo, at Guatemala 4691. It is within walking distance from many parts of Palermo Soho. From other areas, take Subte (subway) Line D to Plaza Italia or Scalabrini Ortiz, then a short walk or a taxi/ride-share. Taxi fare from central Buenos Aires is approximately ARS 9,500-12,000 (around $8-10 USD).

2. El Preferido de Palermo

Cuisine: Elevated Traditional Argentine Bodegón (Deli & Restaurant)

Housed in an iconic pink building from 1885, El Preferido de Palermo offers a sophisticated take on classic Argentine comfort food. Run by the same team as Don Julio, it maintains a relaxed, neighborhood feel with period floors, mirrors, and colorful pickle jars. The kitchen excels in dishes influenced by Spanish and Italian immigrants, using organic produce and house-made charcuterie. Must-try items include the famous sirloin milanesa, known for its tender meat and delicate frying, and homemade morcilla sausage with paprika-spiked eggs. Guests can enjoy a strong vermouth or a selection of natural wines from their cellar. It's a popular spot for both lunch and dinner.

Price: Mid-range to Expensive. Average price per person around ARS 17,000 ($14 USD) as per some sources , but individual main dishes like Milanesa de Bife de Chorizo can be around ARS 41,300 (approximately $35 USD) as of mid-2025. A full meal can range from ARS 17,000 - ARS 50,000+ per person (approximately $14 - $42+ USD).

Getting There: Located in Palermo Soho at Jorge Luis Borges 2108, just a block from Don Julio. Accessible via Subte Line D to Plaza Italia or Scalabrini Ortiz, followed by a short walk or taxi. Bus lines also serve the area.

3. Chori

Cuisine: Gourmet Choripan (Argentine Sausage Sandwich)

Chori is a vibrant, casual eatery that takes the classic Argentine street food, choripan, and elevates it with gourmet twists. It's an order-at-the-bar spot in the trendy Palermo Soho, offering a lively atmosphere. The focus is on quality homemade chorizo sausages, often with creative toppings and freshly baked buns. Options include traditional, smoked, lamb, and even vegetarian choripan. It is ideal for a quick, flavorful, and authentic street food experience.

Price: Cheap Eats. A choripan typically costs around ARS 4,000 - ARS 7,000 (approximately $3.50 - $6 USD). A meal with a choripan, side, and drink might cost around ARS 10,000 - ARS 15,000 (approximately $8.50 - $12.50 USD).

Getting There: Found in Palermo Soho at Thames 1653. It is easily reachable by Subte Line D to Scalabrini Ortiz or Plaza Italia, then a walk. Many bus lines also pass through Palermo Soho. Taxi/ride-share is also an option.

4. La Alacena Trattoria

Cuisine: Italian (Homemade Pasta)

La Alacena Trattoria provides an authentic, informal Italian dining experience with a focus on regional, home-style cooking. Chef Julieta Oriolo pours her passion into honoring her family roots through handmade pasta made with durum wheat flour and free-range eggs. The cozy, bustling spot in Palermo feels like a classic neighborhood trattoria. Standout dishes include veal ravioli with homemade pâté cream and caramelized fennel, fettuccine with saffron, and the exquisite polpette dal sugo (meatballs in sauce). They also offer artisanal pasta for takeaway nearby.

Price: Mid-range. Pastas range from ARS 21,500 - ARS 26,500 (approximately $18 - $22 USD). A full meal with appetizer, main, and a drink could be around ARS 35,000 - ARS 60,000 per person (approximately $30 - $50 USD).

Getting There: Located in Palermo at Gascón 1401. It is accessible by Subte Line B to Ángel Gallardo or Line D to Scalabrini Ortiz, followed by a walk or a short bus/taxi ride.

5. Himitsu Kichi

Cuisine: High-end Japanese (Omakase Sushi)

Himitsu Kichi offers an intimate and refined Japanese omakase experience in the heart of Palermo. The atmosphere is carefully curated, featuring a main horseshoe-shaped bar where guests can interact with the sushi chef as they prepare a unique, multi-course sushi meal. The focus is on the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, with the omakase menu changing daily based on the best available fish. Beyond sushi, the menu may feature Japanese-inspired dishes like wagyu nigiri, inventive gyozas, or ramen. Reservations are essential for this exclusive experience.

Price: Expensive. As an omakase experience, prices are typically set per tasting menu and can be comparable to high-end dining. Expect prices to be similar to Don Julio or higher, likely starting from ARS 100,000+ per person (approximately $85+ USD).

Getting There: Situated in Palermo Soho at Costa Rica 5198. Reachable via Subte Line D to Plaza Italia or Scalabrini Ortiz, then a walk or taxi/ride-share. Buses also service the Palermo area extensively.

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