Sherpa Food Tours

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  • The 10 Best Things to Do in Buenos Aires

    The 10 Best Things to Do in Buenos Aires

    Often referred to as the Paris of South America, Buenos Aires is a city that captivates with its vibrant culture, rich history, and dynamic lifestyle. From the thrill of a football match to the elegance of a tango performance, this city offers a diverse range of activities that cater to every interest. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Buenos Aires has something for you. Here’s our guide to the ten best activities in Buenos Aires that you simply can’t miss.

    1. Food Tour

    Location: Palermo, San Telmo, Recoleta, Various Neighborhoods
    Website:     Sherpa Food Tours

    Dive into the culinary heart of Buenos Aires with a guided food tour. These tours take you through the city’s most iconic neighborhoods and restaurants, offering a taste of everything from empanadas to gourmet ice cream. Local guides share stories of the city’s food culture, making it a delicious way to experience Buenos Aires. Each tour is tailored to showcase the best bites in the area, whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of San Telmo or the modern cultural center of Palermo. This is a must for food enthusiasts looking to understand the flavors that define Argentina – and to try the best empanadas in the world!

    sherpa food tours things to do in buenos aires

    2. Fogón Asado 

    Location: Palermo Hollywood, Uriarte 1423
    Website: Fogón Asado

    For a truly immersive Argentine experience, Fogón Asado offers a modern take on the traditional barbecue, or asado. This isn’t just a meal—it’s a culinary event that takes you through different cuts of meat, all grilled to perfection right before your eyes. The interactive aspect allows you to learn about Argentine grilling techniques and flavors while enjoying each delicious bite. Located in the heart of Palermo Hollywood, Fogón Asado is perfect for those who want to have the best time experiencing Argentine cuisine in a social, interactive setting.

    3. The Argentine Experience

    Location: Palermo, Fitz Roy 2110
    Website: The Argentine Experience

    The Argentine Experience combines fine dining with hands-on cultural education. This interactive dinner party invites you to learn how to make empanadas, mix cocktails like the famous mate-infused gin and tonic, and understand the nuances of Argentine cuisine. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an evening filled with storytelling, laughter, and cultural exchange. Ideal for couples, groups, and solo travelers, The Argentine Experience offers a fun and engaging way to dive into local traditions.

    Bonus tip:

    Not 20 minutes away from The Argentine Experience, you’ll find a mural of Frida Kahlo. It’s well worth a visit for any art lover!

    4. Criolla Cooking Class

    Location: Villa Crespo, Address provided upon booking
    Website: Criolla Cooking

    Step into a local’s kitchen and learn the art of Argentine cooking with Criolla. This intimate cooking class in Villa Crespo gives you the opportunity to prepare traditional dishes like empanadas and dulce de leche pancakes under the guidance of a skilled chef. The small class sizes ensure personalized attention, making it an ideal way to immerse yourself in Argentine culinary traditions. After the cooking, enjoy the fruits of your labor with a communal meal, complete with wine and great company.

    For those interested in exploring Buenos Aires through the lens of its dynamic street art and cultural movements, Furia Tours offers guided walking tours that dive deep into the city’s alternative scenes. These tours take you off the beaten path, showcasing hidden murals, the studios of local artists, street performers, museums off the beaten track, and vibrant neighborhoods like Palermo and La Boca. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the city’s artistic pulse and cultural diversity. Furia Tours is perfect for those looking to experience Buenos Aires beyond its touristy facade.

    6. Polo Day Tour

    Location: Various Polo Clubs outside Buenos Aires

    Argentina is famous for its polo, and there’s no better place to experience this elite sport than in Buenos Aires. While Buenos Aires is a big city, a day trip to play polo still takes you to the outskirts of the city, where you can watch a thrilling polo match, visit stables, and even try your hand at playing. The tour typically includes a traditional Argentine asado, allowing you to enjoy the countryside while indulging in some delicious food. This is an ideal activity for those looking to combine sports, culture, and gastronomy in one unforgettable day.

    7. Cementerio de la Recoleta

    Location: Recoleta, Junín 1760

    More than just a cemetery, Cementerio de la Recoleta is a journey through Argentina’s rich history. This sprawling site is the final resting place of some of the country’s most iconic figures, including Eva Perón. The elaborate tombs and mausoleums, many of which are works of art, tell the story of Argentina’s political and social elite. A guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical and architectural significance of this Buenos Aires landmark. It’s a serene, reflective place that offers a unique perspective on the city’s past.

    8. Tango: Classes, Theatre, and Milonga

    Location: Various Locations

    Tango is the heartbeat of Buenos Aires, and there are countless ways to experience this passionate dance. Take to the dance floor with a tango class in a traditional dance studio, watch a professional tango show in a grand theatre, or visit a milonga where locals dance late into the night. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, engaging with tango culture is a quintessential Buenos Aires experience. Each setting offers a different perspective on the dance, from its origins in the city’s working-class neighborhoods to its status as a global symbol of Argentine culture. Tango dancers are true Argentine artists, and will transport you with their purposeful movements to carefully curated live music. The best tango show in our opinion is Secreto Tango Society

    Insider tip:

    See if you’re lucky enough to catch a tango show at the city’s famous Teatro Colón. With stunning architecture and surrounded by some of Buenos Aires’ best art museums, this is a must-visit for anyone seeking a true cultural experience.

    9. Football Match

    Location: Various Stadiums

    In Buenos Aires, football is more than just a game—it’s a religion. Watching a live match at one of the city’s legendary stadiums, such as La Bombonera (home to Boca Juniors) or El Monumental (home to River Plate), is an electrifying experience. The passion of the fans, the intensity of the game, and the vibrant atmosphere in the stands combine to create an unforgettable event for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a football fanatic or just curious, attending a match is an essential Buenos Aires experience that immerses you in the city’s fervent sports culture.

    10. San Telmo Market

    Location: San Telmo, Defensa 961

    To round out your Buenos Aires adventure, visit the San Telmo Market, a bustling hub of antiques, local crafts, and food stalls. Located in the historic San Telmo neighborhood, this market is a feast for the senses, offering everything from vintage treasures to artisanal goods. The food court is a must-visit, serving up traditional Argentine snacks and international flavors. The market is particularly lively on Sundays, when the entire neighborhood turns into a vibrant street fair. It’s a perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere, find unique souvenirs, and enjoy some street food.

    Bonus tip:

    When visiting the San Telmo Market, you can take a casual 20 minute stroll down to the Casa Rosada – Argentina’s federal government office. Housed in a pink palace, it is home to the presidential offices, and is located just on the Plaza de Mayo. 

    Need a quick break from all those cultural and foodie activities? Discover where to find the best leather goods and local boutiques in our guide to the best shopping areas in Buenos Aires.

  • All you need to know about ice cream in Argentina

    All you need to know about ice cream in Argentina

    Argentina has some of the best ice cream in the world, and if you don’t believe it, then you haven’t tried it yet. As local experts, dedicated foodies, and hosts of the best culinary experience in Buenos Aires, we encourage visitors to make the time for some helado during their stay – it will be more than worth it.

    Ice cream in Argentina – helado – owes much to Italian gelato brought into the country by Italian immigrants during the 20th century, but after more than a 100 years in Argentine soil, it has become its own thing.

    In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Argentine helado, exploring its history, traditional flavors, and where to find the best ice cream parlors in the country. Hungry yet?

    What’s so special about ice cream in Argentina?

    Ice cream in Argentina is very similar to Italian gelato; the main difference would be the flavors – we’ll get into that in a minute – and the way that helado is eaten.

    Forget those measly scoops – in Argentina, we order by size. You can choose between a vaso (cup) of different sizes, or try the more adventurous cucurucho (waffle cone). In either case, scoops are replaced by gustos (flavors), with two being the norm.

    You can also buy ice cream by the kilogram, which many do when they are hosting dinner for friends or just to keep in the fridge in case the craving strikes. Ice cream parlors – heladerías – are open until late, closing after 1 or 2 am.

    Ice cream flavors in Argentina

    Must try ice cream flavors:

    Ice cream flavors can be rounded up in two main groups: cream-based, or crema, and sorbet or al agua. Very often you’ll see that flavor charts in heladerías have a separate category for chocolates and dulce de leche, as these two flavors can be enjoyed in several variations.

    Dulce de leche

    Dulce de leche, aka milk caramel, is the most popular ice cream flavor in Argentina by far, and rightly so. Think caramel, but creamier.

    Argentines love to put dulce de leche in everything, so it makes sense that one of the most popular dulce de leche ice creams has extra dulce de leche – this is usually called “super dulce de leche” and if you could only try one flavor of ice cream in Argentina, this should be it.

    Chocolate

    We all know this one, but in Argentina, chocolate comes with a twist. Add nuts, chocolate chips, fresh berries or some dulce de leche, and you get a new chocolate variety to order from your local heladería. If you want a break from Argentine sweetness, you could try some bittersweet chocolate (chocolate amargo).

    Sambayón

    Sambayón, from the Italian zabaione, is a classic dessert that is made with egg yolks, sugar and sweet wine, usually Marsala. Sambayón ice cream is popular, but not without controversy: younger generations may consider it a “gusto de viejo” (old people’s flavor) but you shouldn’t be fooled by such rumors – give it a try, you won’t regret it.

    Tramontana

    Tramontana is one of the most popular flavors by far, usually ordered in tandem with chocolate and dulce de leche. Tramontana features crema americana – plain cream ice cream – with dulce de leche and chocolate-covered cookies.

    Banana Split

    Banana split is a crem-based banana ice cream with dulce de leche. Don’t mistake it for the dessert of the same name; most Argentines have never heard of it.

    Sorbets or gustos al agua

    It’s not all about the cream. Sorbets are just as popular – and delicious! – with strawberry and lemon being national favorites, especially during the hot summer months. Argentina is well known for growing some of the best berries in the world in the Patagonia region, so flavors such as raspberry or frutos del bosque are worth a taste.

    How to order ice cream in Argentina

    • Step One: Plan Your Strategy
      When you head into an heladería, head to the cashier and take a look at your options and price.
      You can typically choose between different cup sizes (vasos) or waffle cones (cucuruchos). The other option is to order by kilo, as we mentioned. Sometimes the smaller vasos only allow for one flavor; check with your cashier first.
      Remember: you don’t order by scoop or flavor, but by type and size.
    • Step two: Place your Order
      Once you know what you are getting, you place your order with the cashier and will be handed a receipt. Take your receipt to the scoopers (or wait to be called), who will ask what flavors you want. You can even taste them first if you are not quite sure about your choice.
    • Last step: Enjoy!
      Relish in the best ice cream on this side of the Equator.

    Best ice cream in Buenos Aires

    Buenos Aires has some of the best ice cream shops in the country. The best heladerías make all their ice cream in-house, and some have amassed a cult-like following that results in hour-long queues for a taste of their creations.

    These are some of the best ice cream shops in Buenos Aires, according to our local guides:

    • Cadore (Downtown, Av. Corrientes al 1695)
    • Obrador Florida (Palermo, Soler 5063)
    • Scannapieco (Palermo, Av. Álvarez Thomas 10)
    • Rapa Nui (several locations)

    Cadore (Dowontown, Av. Corrientes al 1695)

    Cadore may be the first name that comes to mind when you ask older city dwellers about ice cream shops. The place has been around for more than 50 years, and has always been a trademark of quality ice cream made Italian-style. The iconic Cadore location is in the busy Avenida Corrientes, right next to the city’s most important theaters and half the best pizzerias in town. Try the pistachio, the dulce de leche negro (with dark chocolate bits) and the lemon mousse.

    Obrador Florida (Palermo, Soler 5063)

    This is a relatively new ice cream shop that has quickly become a favorite with the locals because of the uniqueness of their flavors and the fact that they only work with seasonal ingredients. Order whatever is in season: you won’t be disappointed. Some flavors are a bit exotic, but you can always ask for a taste, and the scoopers have excellent recommendations. Vasos come with a topping of choice for each flavor: take them, they do add to the overall experience.

    Scannapieco (Palermo, Av. Álvarez Thomas 10)

    Scannapieco is one of the old-school ice cream shops, featuring that “Italian” vibe that most Argentines associate with heladerías from their childhood. It has been run by the same family since it was founded in 1938, and is internationally recognized as one of the best ice cream shops in Buenos Aires. Stick with the classics and anything Italian-sounding. The place is right next to the Mercado de Pulgas, one of the most popular antique markets in the city.

    Rapa Nui (Retiro, Av. Sta. Fe 772; several other locations)

    There are several Rapa Nuis throughout the city: we like the one next to Plaza San Martín because of the view. This ice cream shop hails from Patagonia and features amazing local produce from the region, which makes for great ice cream. Try the chocolates (all of them), vanilla with pecans, Patagonia Mia (sorbet made with Calafate berries), or the dulce de leche de cabra (made with goat milk).

    Where to find Gluten Free, Vegan and Lactose Free Ice Cream in Buenos Aires

    Which ice cream shops in Buenos Aires have Gluten Free Flavors?

    Antiche Tentazioni, Rapa Nui and Cremolatti.

    Antiche Tentazioni has many gluten-free flavors; when placing your order, tell your cashier or scooper that your order is gluten free (“sin TACC”) to avoid cross-contamination, and choose from the flavors that are marked as gluten free (with the crossed out wheat ear symbol).

    Rapa Nui sells prepackaged gluten-free ice cream in different flavors.
    Cremolatti has a pretty good selection of gluten free ice cream flavors, be sure to tell the staff beforehand that your order is gluten free so they can take the proper precautions.

    Which ice cream shops in Buenos Aires have Vegan Options?

    Obrador Florida, Antiche Tentazioni and Rapa Nui all have vegan options. Vegan ice cream is usually marked on the flavors board with a Green V Symbol, but you can also ask the staff about the vegan flavors, as sometime new additions go unmarked.

    Which ice cream shops in Buenos Aires have Lactose Free Options?

    Obrador Florida and Cremolatti have lactose free ice cream options – check with the staff to know which ones are safe to eat if you are lactose intolerant.

    Got Room for More Than Just Dessert?

    It’s often said that outside of Italy, Argentina serves up some of the best ice cream in the world. Helado is a massive part of our amazing food culture, but honestly, it’s just the (very sweet) tip of the iceberg.

    Ready to discover everything else Buenos Aires has to offer? Explore our Buenos Aires Food Tours and taste not only world-class ice cream, but the very best of our local food scene.

    For More Sweet Tips: Check out our Travel Guide!

  • What to eat in Buenos Aires and Where: A guide for foodies

    What to eat in Buenos Aires and Where: A guide for foodies

    Iconic Buenos Aires Food Experiences and Dishes to try during your stay

    When people think about typical Buenos Aires Food, the first thing that comes to mind is usually steak and wine (Malbec, amirite?). However, there’s a lot more to Buenos Aires cuisine.

    Try some choripán during a walk through the Costanera, have a slice of pizza on Avenida Corrientes or enjoy a fantastic cup of coffee with pastries at any of the incredible cafés the city has to offer.

    This guide covers the must-try dishes and foods any visitor should enjoy during their stay in Buenos Aires, and where to do it.

    Asado and Parrillas

    We have to start with what we are famous for! If you want some of that world-famous Argentine steak, head to one of these parrillas (steakhouses) for a taste of the best meat in the entire world (despite what Uruguay may claim).

    • Parrilla Peña (Rodríguez Peña 682): This steak house is closer to Recoleta which makes it the perfect stop when deciding to explore the neighborhood. Low key local vibes and premium quality steak.
    • RS Esquina (Roseti 1596): If you are feeling alternative and want to explore Chacarita, the up and coming neighborhood in Buenos Aires, why not have some pasture-raised beef while you are at it!
    • Cabaña Las Lilas (Av. Alicia Moreau de Justo 516): Elegant, top-notch and failure-free steakhouse in Puerto Madero.

    Wine Tasting in Buenos Aires

    Thirsty for some of that famous Malbec? Look no further! Wine bars have been popping all over town in recent years, to fill a growing demand for a more sophisticated wine experience. 

    Our Palermo Food Tour features a wine-tasting stop, where you get to sample signature regional wines in a classic porteño setting, while also sampling local dishes (give it a try – we promise you won’t be sorry!).

    If you are looking for a wine bar, these are our Buenos Aires faves:

    • Pain et Vin (Gorriti 5132): owned and served by a married couple, Pain et Vin was the original wine bar, and still one of the best. With a hand-picked wine selection paired with heavenly bread, this comfy, intimate place is a delightful spot for connoisseurs and beginners alike.
    • Vico Wine Bar (Gurruchaga 1149): One of the largest wine selections in Buenos Aires in a classy setting. This is a must for wine lovers.
    • Cava Jufre (Jufré 201): If you are looking for a more personal wine experience, go out of your traditional Palermo setting to visit La Cava Jufre in a more relaxed alternative vibe.

    Pizza porteña on Avenida Corrientes (…and elsewhere!)

    Avenida Corrientes is home to some of the best pizzerias in town. The street also houses many theaters (and fancies itself the Argentine Broadway) and bookstores, making it an ideal location for an evening stroll or lunch break.

    Argentine pizza has a thicker crust and loads of cheese – grab a slice to eat on the go or by the standing counter, or get a table and share a pizza with a friend over some Moscato wine (and do try the fainá, a.k.a. chickpea flour pancake). 

    Pizzerias on Calle Corrientes:

    • Güerrín (Av. Corrientes 1368): the most famous pizzería in Avenida Corrientes, go for hype and stay for the slice.
    • Banchero (Av. Corrientes 1604): Another classic, featuring classic with a retro feel, a good option if you want to grab a table and skip the long wait at Güerrín.
    • Genova (Av. Corrientes 872): unpretentious and reliable, Genova offers a great slice at a decent price. If you are tired of going to the same place as every other tourist, head here.

    It’s not all downtown Avenida Corrientes – consider visiting these pizzerias in other neighborhoods:

    • El Cuartito (Talcahuano 937): hands down the best pizza in Recoleta, what else is there to say?.
    • El Imperio de la Pizza (Av. Corrientes 6891): the Chacarita classic – a pizza so good we know of people who went to a movie in Avenida Corrientes and then hopped onto the subway for dinner at Imperio.
    • Bar Roma: (Anchorena 806): looking for something a bit more modern? Bar Roma’s got you – the place may be old, but they’ve refurbished the building and gave the menu solid makeover. Great pizza, great drinks, great ambience.

    Argentine Empanadas

    Empanadas are a Buenos Aires staple, and any pizzeria worth its salt will offer a decent empanada. The classic flavors are carne (beef), jamón y queso (ham and cheese) and humita (corn).

    If you are looking for something more elevated, try one of the following locations.

    Empanada places to try:

    • La Cocina (Av. Pueyrredón 1508): This is like dying and going to Empanada Heaven. Low-key local vibes, if you are hunting for the perfect empanada this is your stop.
    • EL Hornero (Av. Carlos Calvo 455 local 88 y 89): situated in the San Telmo Market, El Hornero is worth a stop after perusing the nearby stores. Great empanada selection, with several vegetarian options.
    • El Sanjuanino (Posadas 1515): a restaurant by and for locals, this place specializes in regional food, including empanadas (we recommend sticking to the classics here).

    Cafés notables: coffee and pastries

    A typical Argentine breakfast consists of a good cup of coffee and medialunas (croissants, and yes, plural). Dipping a medialuna in your coffee gets you extra argentine-ness points. And because one coffee is not enough, Argentines also enjoy coffee and medialunas as merienda, their mid-afternoon coffee break. You can also switch medialunas for alfajores (dulce de leche-filled cookie sandwiches).

    Buenos Aires is filled with incredible cafés, but if you want a taste of tradition together with your cappuccino, go to one of the cafés notables, which are historical cafés spread throughout the city.

    • Café Tortoni (Av. de Mayo 825): Parisian-style grand café in the heat of the city center. Worth waiting in line for. Do try the churros and hot chocolate!
    • Las Violetas (Av. Rivadavia 3899): Iconic historical café in Almagro, featuring 1020s decor, superb pastries and a lovely atmosphere.
    • La Biela (Av. Pres. Manuel Quintana 596): located right in front of the Recoleta cemetery, La Biela is the perfect spot to grab a cup of coffee after some sightseeing.

    Looking for something more modern? Try these cafés:

    • Atelier Fuerza (Ecuador 1283): we gotta be honest, we added La Fuerza because of the pastries, and the pastries alone. It is actually a bakery, but it’s THE bakery.
    • Zarpado Café (Pasaje Echeverría Local 9): a hole-in-the-wall café in the newly opened pasaje Echeverría, Zarpado is a worthy offering among the up-and-coming Barrio Chino gastro scene.
    • Sastre Café (Av. Díaz Vélez 4674): Tiny spot next to Parque Centenario – take your coffee to go and do try the pastries!

    Choripán: Street meat by the riverside

    Eating a good choripán by the riverside is a favorite pastime for many porteños. The Costanera comes alive during the weekend, as the city dwellers flee the streets for a taste of fresh air and street meat.

    Order a choripán (chorizo sandwich) at one of the many street carts lining up the street at the Costanera. Other sandwich options are bondiola (pork) and lomito (steak). Add chimichurri sauce for an extra kick. If you fancy a choripán, but don’t want to go all the way to the Costanera, you can head to similar street carts in the Bosques de Palermo.

    Not really into food carts? You can also try choripán at Chori in Palermo Soho (Thames 1653).

    Ice Cream with Italian Flair

    It’s no secret that Argentina has a sweet tooth, and with our Italian heritage, gelato quickly became a national passion. Heladerías are open all year round, and we even sell ice cream by the kilo, so you can enjoy it at home too.

    The best heladerías in town are those that combine local flavors with Italian tradition, plus a side of innovation.

    Ice cream shops worth a visit:

    • Scannapieco (Av. Álvarez Thomas 10): classic porteño ice-cream shop, with signature Italian flavors (and a mean crema chantilly!).
    • Rapa Nui (Avenida Santa Fe 772): originally from the South, Rapa Nui has the best chocolate flavors (yes, plural) and berry sorbets.
    • Obrador Florida (Soler 5063): a modern take on ice cream, this place features exotic creations and seasonal flavors only. A bit pricey, but worth it by far.

    Bodegón dishes: homemade-style food

    Bodegones are dinner-style restaurants. Typical bodegones feature vintage wooden decor, football (yes, we don’t call it soccer) memorabilia and family photos. No Buenos Aires food experience is complete without a visit to a bodegón.

    Bodegones offer simple, hearty dishes in generous portions. Go hungry, and ask about the house specialties.

    Typical bodegón dishes are the iconic tortilla with chorizo, milanesas with a side of fries and pasta dishes such as ravioli or cannelloni. Don’t skip dessert: try the flan mixto (with whipped cream and dulce de leche) or dulce de leche pancakes.

    Our bodegón favorites:

    • Los Galgos (Av. Callao 501): Much like El Preferido (part of our Palermo Tour), this is a refurbished bodegón that serves Argentine staple dishes.
    • Cantina Los Amigos ( Loyola 701): Literally named «The Friends» this is a traditional gathering spot for friends and families in the neighborhood of Villa Crespo. Don’t expect fancy, refined dished but rather large portions that can’t be contained in a traditional plate. This place is better enjoyed with a group of people to sample more dishes.
    • Barcelona (Avenida Córdoba 5895): traditional dishes, laid-back atmosphere and very affordable prices. Hot tip: try the apple tarantella for dessert.

    Yerba Mate: that thingie with the straw

    You’ve heard about it, but don’t quite get the hype: what is this yerba mate thing?

    Mate is a typical argentine drink which is consumed following a strict code of rules. You must have an appropriate container (also called mate), which is typically made out of a calabash gourd. Then you add the chopped yerba mate leaves and put a metal straw (bombilla) in. Pour hot water, and then drink (never ever move the bombilla – this is considered poor manners).

    The thing about mate is that you won’t be able to find it at a restaurant – most people have their own mate they drink at home or bring with them to work/school. However, you can try mate as part of the Argentine Experience (a crash course into Argentine cuisine for newcomers).

    The other alternatives are to befriend and Argentine (which is actually quite easy) and get them to share mate with you, or buy your own mate (this makes for a great souvenir as well).

    Gluten Free and Vegan Options

    Gluten Free Buenos Aires Food: what are my options?

    Steakhouses (Parrillas): Don Julio, Las Lilas and Corte Comedor all have gluten-free options. Campobravo is exclusively gluten free.

    Cafés and bakeries: La Union Bakery and Gout Café are completely gluten-free. Felice is also a pretty good gluten-free restaurant and café.

    Ice cream shops: Antiche Tentazioni, Cremolatti and Rapanui have gluten-free options (though Rapanui’s is prepackaged).
    Pizza and Empanadas: Taccout and Jana Gluten Free are the go-to for the gluten-free crowd

    Where to eat vegan in Buenos Aires?

    Bakeries: Sableé Vegana (Belgrano)

    Cafés and Restaurants: Fifí Almacén, Mudra, Loving Hut (all in Palermo) are some top-notch vegan cafés. Ruta Jardín and Fauna are not fully vegan, but have good vegan options. La Reverde (City Center) is a vegan «parrilla», for those who crave cruelty-free vegan steak. Sacro (Palermo) is a great vegan & vegetarian restaurant.

    Pizza: Pizza Vegana (takeaway), Flipper (they have vegan and non vegan, same options for both menues). Güerrín also has a vegan option.

    Ice cream shops: Obrador Florida, Antiche Tentazioni and Rapa Nui, while not entirely vegan, have great vegan flavors.

    Ready to Stop Reading and Start Eating?

    This guide gives you the map, but navigating the massive Buenos Aires food scene can be overwhelming. How do you choose? You don’t have to…

    Why stress about reservations or missing out on a hidden gem when you can experience the best of it all, curated by a local expert?

    Discover Sherpa Buenos Aires Food Tours: Stop guessing and start tasting. Join a Sherpa tour to discover the city’s most authentic, must-try flavors in just a few hours.

    Not ready to book? Use our full Buenos Aires Travel Guide to dive even deeper into specific neighborhoods and culinary secrets.

    Want the ultimate cheat sheet for your trip? Go straight to our curated list of the absolute best restaurants in Buenos Aires.

  • Argentinian cookies explained: The glutton’s guide to alfajores

    Argentinian cookies explained: The glutton’s guide to alfajores

    What are alfajores?

    Alfajores are a typical Argentine confection made with two plain cookies with dulce de leche in between. They are sweet cookie sandwiches typically enjoyed as an afternoon treat or as dessert.

    Of course, other fillings than dulce de leche can be used to make alfajores, and by changing the kind of cookie used and the coating, you get an entirely different alfajor experience.

    The different types of alfajores (Argentinian cookies)

    We know visitors love our alfajores, but many don’t know there’s a world of alfajores out there besides Havanna’s (no shade – Havanna is great!). That’s why we put together a “beginner’s guide to alfajores” of sorts, to help newcomers discover the delicious world of alfajores. Beware: after reading this article, you’ll probably be craving an alfajor…

    Alfajores de maicena

    Alfajores de maicena are made with cornstarch (that’s the meaning of maicena), and most are produced artisanally, as the soft, crumbling cookie is not usually easy to transport.

    You can find alfajores de maicena in cafés and bakeries, in varying sizes (we’ve seen literal alfajor de maicena cakes out there). We always tell people to order an alfajor de maicena together with a good cup of coffee, as the texture can feel very dry because of the cornstarch.

    Traditional alfajores

    Unlike alfajores de maicena, most alfajores are made with regular wheat flour. Traditional alfajores can be split into two groups: chocolate alfajores and sugar glaze alfajores. The alfajor itself is basically the same – what changes is the coating.

    Alfajores de fruta

    Besides dulce de leche filling, many typical alfajores featured a jam or jelly filling. The most traditional ones feature a quince paste filling (membrillo), but we’ve seen many strawberry and berry jam-filled alfajores in the city lately, like the ones of trendsetting chocolatier Rapanui.

    Where to buy alfajores in Buenos Aires?

    You can buy alfajores pretty much anywhere: bakeries, cafés, supermarkets, kiosks and dedicated alfajor stores such as Havanna’s and Cachafaz. However, which alfajor to buy depends on what you are looking for.

    Our pick of the best alfajor brands out there

    Alfajores Havanna

    Havanna’s 70% cocoa chocolate alfajores are a must-try if you are visiting Buenos Aires. You are bound to bump into an Havanna sooner or later, so don’t miss your chance to try it. Unlike Havanna’s classic chocolate alfajores, the 70% cocoa ones are made with a dark chocolate coating. While they are not as sweet, they are exceedingly decadent (this is not sponsored, by the way, we are honestly just fans of the product).

    Cachafaz

    Some argue that Cachafaz has a better alfajor than Havanna. And while Cachafaz may not have the same reach, they definitely can take on their rival with their signature chocolate alfajor. Cachafaz has a few stores strategically placed throughout the city, usually close to tourist hotspots. They can also be bought at some kiosks and supermarkets.

    Jorgito

    Less fancy than Havanna and Cachafaz, Jorgito alfajores are an affordable and sweet treat when the afternoon cravings start. This brand has been going strong since the 1960s, and many remember it fondly from their childhood. Buy them by the unit at a kiosk or venture to your closest supermarket to buy a 6 pack. They also have a “mini” alfajor pack that is perfect for dessert.

    Capitán del Espacio

    Capitán del Espacio (“Space Captain”) is a beloved alfajor brand with an almost cult-like following. The taste is very similar to Jorgito, but the brand’s atypical marketing (or lack thereof) has been at the center of its success. The alfajores are produced in the nearby Quilmes city, and in very limited quantities.

    Finding this alfajor in Buenos Aires used to be such a novelty that people would spread the word if they found a kiosk selling the elusive Capitán. Nowadays they are much easier to locate, but porteños still feel a rush of excitement when they manage to get hold of one.

    Gourmet alfajores

    La Olla de Cobre

    You are not gonna find this tip anywhere else, but La Olla de Cobre (The Copper Pot) makes the best alfajor in the entire country. They are not easy to find but are worth the treasure hunt.

    The artisanal chocolatier is located in the San Antonio de Areco town, which is 120km away from Buenos Aires, and worth a visit to get an idea of what gaucho life used to be like.

    In Buenos Aires, the store Sabores Increíbles (Ayacucho 1158) usually has some in stock.

    Rústico Chocolate

    Granted, not everyone can travel to Areco, and maybe you don’t want to go to all this trouble for an alfajor. But if you are in the mood for sweet treat on the gourmet spectrum, head to Rústico Chocolate in Palermo (Godoy Cruz 1823). They have a fantastic selection of artisanal alfajores with a few twists. Grab a coffee while you are at it!

    Regional alfajores: don’t miss out on these treats

    If you are traveling the country and venturing beyond Buenos Aires, don’t miss your chance to try some regional alfajores. Some provinces have put their own spin on the alfajor.

    Alfajor Santefecino

    The province of Santa Fe (which is the birthplace of iconic Argentinian desserts such as Rogel or Chocotorta) is famous for its alfajores santafecinos, which are made with three layers of puff pastry, dulce de leche filling and a sugar glaze.

    Alfajor Cordobés

    The province of Córdoba is also famous for its jelly-filled alfajores. They feature a soft alfajor cookie, a quince-jelly filling, and a sugar glaze.

    Because many regional alfajores are artisanally produced, you sometimes come across very unusual creations (such as fernet-infused alfajores). Other provinces also sell “their” own alfajores, but Cordoba’s and Santa Fe’s are the well-known ones.

    Alfajor marplatense

    Technically not a regional alfajor, but we can’t talk about alfajores in such detail and not mention the huge role that the coastal city of Mar del Plata plays in the alfajor industry. Mar del Plata is where Havanna got its start, and the city – a historical vacation spot for porteños – has a fierce alfajor market (and also the best medialunas in the entire country, but that’s a conversation for another day). An alfajor that makes it in Mar del Plata can make it anywhere.

    Alfajor trivia and FAQs

    Which are some good gluten-free alfajores?

    There’s the widely available Chocoarroz (the cookie is replaced with puffed rice), and other gluten-free certified brands such as Chocoleit, Celienergy, Coprigio, Dantelli and Cerro Azul. Havanna’s Semilia and Vegano are gluten-free as well. Gluten-free alfajores are marked with the «Sin TACC» crossed-out wheat spike logo, which certifies that a product is 100% gluten-free.

    Where can I find gluten-free alfajores in Buenos Aires?

    You can buy Chocoarroz at any kiosk or supermarket. The other brands are a little harder to come by – try Bonafide or any “dietética” (health food store). You can buy Havanna’s gluten-free alfajores at their stores.

    Which brands have vegan alfajores?

    Havanna’s Vegano is vegan and gluten-free (beware, the Semilia is not vegan). Cerro Azul, Rincón Vegano and Felices las Vacas are also vegan. Coprigio has a vegan option as well.

    Where can I buy vegan alfajores in Buenos Aires?

    You can buy Havanna’s Vegano at their stores (by the unit or in bulk). Cerro Azul and Rincón Vegano and Felices Las Vacas are usually found at health-food stores or sometimes in kiosks. Rústico Chocolate has an artisanal vegan alfajor with peanut butter and strawberry filling.

    Is the alfajor from Argentina?

    Alfajores were brought to South America by the Spanish during the 16th century, but they (probably) originated in the Middle East centuries before that. We do know that alfajores were introduced to Spain sometime during the 8th century, when the Iberian peninsula was under Moor occupation. Argentina took the alfajores and added its own take, which was, of course, the dulce de leche – and so it was that alfajores became “Argentinian cookies”.

    What is the difference between Peruvian and Argentinian alfajores?

    Truth be told, they are pretty similar. Peruvians call dulce de leche “manjar blanco”, but the alfajor itself is pretty much the same. Of course, there are many alfajor variations within each country’s regions, but the basic product is the same.

    What is the Mundial de Alfajores?

    The “Mundial de Alfajores” or “Alfajor World Championship” is an alfajor fair and contest first held in 2022. Small businesses can compete to win the best alfajor award in different categories, and the public can sample alfajores from all over the country. The 2023 edition of the Mundial de Alfajores will be held in August in La Rural (Buenos Aires City).

    Argentina Has Its Sweet Side, Too

    And at Sherpa, we try everything!

  • What is asado in Argentina?

    What is asado in Argentina?

    Everything you need to know about Argentina’s most iconic tradition and national dish. Social gathering, assorted grilled meats, and an all-day affair: asado is all that and more, as we will explain in this article.

    What is asado?

    Asado is both a cooking technique and a social event akin to a barbecue. In Argentina, asado is one of the most important national traditions.

    Asado as a barbecue

    As a barbecue, asado consists of a variety of grilled meats, primarily beef, although pork and chicken are also used. In addition to the meats, several “embutidos” (sausages) and “achuras” (offal) are served, as well as side dishes, grilled vegetables, and sometimes grilled provoleta cheese.

    Asado beef cuts

    Let’s go over some of the most popular asado meats. There are a lot of options and regional variety. In the city of Buenos Aires and its parrillas, the typical cuts are:

    • Tira de asado (Argentine short rib): the go-to asado meat cut. It has more bone and fat than other cuts but is very flavourful.
    • Vacío (flank steak): an affordable and juicy cut with a thin layer of fat on the sides. It’s quite thin.
    • Entraña (skirt steak): thinner than vacío, with a white layer of fat that gets very crispy once cooked.
    • Lomo (tenderloin): a lean cut with a hefty price tag, usually reserved for fine dining (like high-end parrillas) but seen at asados on special occasions.

    Other popular cuts are tapa de asado (rib cap) and bife de chorizo (sirloin).

    Matambre de cerdo (pork rose meat) and bondiola (pork tenderloin), when used, are prepared with lemon juice and then cooked on the grill as well.

    Asado sausages

    • Chorizo (sausage): everyone’s favorite sausage, chorizo is a traditional pork sausage typically eaten as is or in a “choripán”, that is, a chorizo sandwich. You may add chimichurri for an extra something.
    • Morcilla (blood sausage): not as vital as chorizo, but an asado staple nonetheless. It tastes better served hot, but leftover cold morcilla can be served as picada (we’ll explain the picada later).
    • Salchicha parrillera (thin sausage): If you are not up for a chorizo but still want a sausage, this is the one for you.

    Asado offal (achuras)

    The achuras are always a gamble. When properly prepared, they can be fantastic. If not, well, you can always put them aside.

    • Chinchulines: chitterlings.
    • Mollejas: sweetbreads.
    • Lengua: tongue.
    asado in argentina

    Asado side dishes

    An asado is all about the meats, so the side dishes are usually there to “enhance” the experience.

    • Green salad: simple, easy to whip up, no-nonsense salad featuring tomatoes and lettuce. You can also add carrots and onions.
    • Potato salad: boiled potatoes, boiled eggs, a whole lotta mayonnaise.
    • Vegetales a las brasas (grilled veggies): bell peppers, potatoes, onions, and corn. Wrap these bad boys on foil paper and put them on the grill.
    • Provoleta cheese: a local variation of Provolone cheese, ideal for grilling. Season it with chimichurri or spices and olive oil before cooking.

    Asado sauces

    Argentines don’t season their cuts besides adding salt, but they enjoy adding sauces once the cut has been served. Popular options are chimichurri and salsa criolla, both Argentine in origin.

    What is chimichurri?

    Chimichurri is a sauce made with finely chopped parsley, oregano, garlic, oil, and some vinegar or lemon juice. Chimichurri tastes better when fresh herbs are used. You can spice the sauce up by adding red pepper flakes (ají molido).

    What is salsa criolla?

    Salsa criolla is another uncooked sauce made with thinly sliced onions, bell peppers (red or green), and tomatoes. Olive oil, vinegar, and salt and pepper are also used to add flavor.

    Asado as a social gathering

    An asado is an all-day affair; the designated asador (the person in charge of the grill) starts the fire very early on, just as guests are arriving. While the asador is at work, the others help set the table and prepare the side dishes. When everything is in place, the picada is served.

    What is a picada?

    A picada is an appetizer, usually served on a tray and consisting of a variety of cheeses, cold cuts, bread slices, olives, and other snacks. The verb “picar” means to snack.

    Many ingredients can go into a picada, but salamín (salami), pategrás cheese, and olives are common picada choices, typically served with slices of bread.

    Once people start eating, they also start drinking: expect the first of many Malbec bottles to be opened at this point. Alternatively, people may go for a cocktail, such as Argentina’s infamous fernet con coca, one of our most traditional drinks.

    Asado Entrées

    The parrilla (grill) should be up and running by now, with the first cuts laid out on the grill. Argentines don’t season their meats besides adding salt; pork cuts may be prepared with some lemon juice, and that’s it.

    The first thing out of the grill will be the chorizos (sausages), which are always a huge crowd-pleaser. There’s bound to be bread at the table, so guests can prepare their very own choripán (chorizo sandwich), or “chori” for short. Morcilla (blood sausage) and salchicha parrillera (thin sausage) will also be served at this point.

    Sauces such as chimichurri and salsa criolla can be added to your chori for extra flavor. Neither is spicy, as Argentines aren’t particularly fond of the heat.

    Asado cuts are served

    Next comes the offal and the main asado cuts (although the offal is sometimes served first). By this point, everybody should take their seat. The asador will take the biggest cut out of the grill, serve it on the table, and then cut it. A round of applause for the asador is customary, to congratulate them on an asado well done.

    What’s left is to eat, chat, drink, and eat some more while the rest of the cuts are served. The asador will sit down once everything is out of the grill, but they usually eat a little bit of each cut as they serve them.

    Time for Dessert

    The main event is over, but the feast continues. Coffee and dessert will be served next. Some people serve ice cream (in Argentina, you can buy artisanal ice cream in bulk at any ice cream shop). Others serve tiramisú or maybe a cake such as chocotorta. A mate will probably be passed around.

    At the end of an asado, you should feel full, happy, and ready for a long nap.

    Where can I eat asado in Buenos Aires?

    On to the hard part: the best way to eat asado is to be invited to one. Befriending an Argentine is easy, but if you are in town for just a couple of days, chances are you won’t get your invitation in time.

    However, you can always head to a local parrilla (steakhouse) to enjoy some perfectly cooked asado meats and side dishes. It’s not the same as an asado, but it’s one of the closest things to it.

    Last but not least, we know an Argentine asado is about much more than the meat. It’s a social ritual; it’s about sharing time, stories, and incredible food with other people. At Sherpa, we believe that’s the best way to experience all of Buenos Aires’ gastronomy. Why settle for just one parrilla when you can explore the entire local food scene, with others?

    Join our tours to taste it all, while enjoying the experience with fellow food lovers, just like a real asado.

    Asado questions and trivia

    How do you start a fire for an asado in Argentina?

    Argentines typically use dry wood or charcoal. You assemble a small pile of paper, small branches, and/or straw first, and then light the wood or charcoal on top. Then gradually add more wood or charcoal until there’s enough lit up to use the grill. Charcoal works faster and is more efficient, while wood takes longer but makes for a better aftertaste.

    What is asado a la cruz?

    In the countryside, another way of preparing an asado is by lighting a fire and then “staking” the cut – usually a costillar (rib rack) or another big cut – on a cross-like steel contraption.

    What are the asado cooking points?

    Jugoso: medium-rare, not to be confused with “blue”.
    A punto: true medium, with some pink in the middle.
    Pasado de punto: between medium and well done.
    Cocido: well done.
    Suela: thoroughly cooked. Suela means “shoe sole”.

    What to eat at an asado if I’m vegetarian

    Vegetarians can enjoy provoleta (grilled provolone-type cheese) and roasted vegetables such as red pepper, potatoes, onions and corn. Filled vegetables are also an option, such as red peppers with mozzarella or fried egg on top.

    Vegans can enjoy a variety of grilled veggies with chimichurri or salsa criolla. Green salads are usually safe for vegans to eat too. Be sure to ask the host to wrap your veggies in tin foil so they aren’t touching any of the meat cuts or non-vegan ingredients. In Buenos Aires, some specialty shops and dietéticas (health food shops) sell plant-based vegan meats for the grill. If you are in a pinch, you can buy vegan burgers at big supermarkets from brands such as NotCo and bring them to your asado.

    What to bring to an asado

    If you are invited to an asado, it’s polite to ask the host if there’s anything you can bring. They may ask you to bring a salad, dessert, bread, ice or something to drink. If they say they don’t need anything, bringing a bottle of Malbec is a classy move.

  • 10 Fun Things to do in San Telmo

    10 Fun Things to do in San Telmo

    Welcome to San Telmo, one of Buenos Aires oldest neighborhoods, and one of the most traditional as well. Cobbled streets, art galleries, chic cafés, antiques, and fresh produce… old and new meet and mesh in San Telmo in wonderful ways, and we are here to show you just how.

    Here’s a quick overview:

    1. San Telmo Market (Defensa 963)
    2. Defensa Street Fair (Defensa 100 – 1500)
    3. Plaza Dorrego & Antique Market (Humberto 1º 400)
    4. San Telmo Food Tour
    5. Parque Lezama & National History Museum (Defensa 1600)
    6. Modern Art Museum (Av. San Juan 350)
    7. Pasaje de la Defensa (Defensa 1179)
    8. Casa Mínima (San Lorenzo 380)
    9. Mafalda Statue (Defensa 700)
    10. Comic Strip Walk (several stops)
    things to do in san telmo buenos aires

    San Telmo Market

    The San Telmo Market is open from Tuesday to Sunday, unlike the Feria de San Telmo which takes place every Sunday. The indoor market first opened in 1897 and it hasn’t changed much since. The San Telmo Market has it all: antique jewelry, knick-knacks, fresh produce, and several food stalls and cafés where you can grab a bite (we especially like Hornero for regional food and Beba Cocina for porteño staples with a twist).

    The San Telmo Market is located in Defensa 963. It opens from 10.30 am to 7.30 from Tuesday to Friday, and from 9 am to 8 pm during weekends and public holidays. It’s better to show up around midday, as Argentines aren’t early risers. Sundays can be very crowded, as the Market gets a lot of overflow from the neighboring Feria. The ideal day to visit is either a Saturday or a weekday. And wear sensible shoes (this goes for anything you do in San Telmo except maybe Tango dancing).

    Defensa Street Fair

    San Telmo’s flea market is the most well-known street fair in the entire city.

    Every Sunday, Defensa Street is covered with stalls selling everything and anything: kitschy souvenirs, leather goods, antiques, designer clothing, and stationery…Locals and tourists alike flock to the street fair to browse the goods; you can easily spend hours walking along the cobblestone streets. The best part? Most of what you will see here are handmade items made by the stall owners themselves. Bring cash, most won’t accept international cards.

    The Street Fair goes all the way from Plaza de Mayo to Parque Lezama, but the best stalls are the ones closer to Plaza Dorrego. You can visit from 10 am to 5 pm (the earlier the better).

    Plaza Dorrego & Antique Market

    At the heart of San Telmo lies the iconic Plaza Dorrego, which hosts the antique market every Sunday. Some street vendors will also set up shop during the week. Bohemian, relaxed, and lively, this is the perfect place to take a break.

    Take a look around the square, grab a table at one of the nearby restaurants or cafés, and have a drink. The food here is nothing to write home about; we recommend a cup of coffee or maybe a lemonade or a soda during the hot summer months. What makes sitting down worth it are the tango dancers: you can always catch a show here, which is a great (and quicker) alternative to the 3-hour affairs that are most tango experiences.

    San Telmo Food Tour

    If what you are looking for is a tour of San Telmo with some fantastic food, the San Telmo Food Tour hosted by Sherpa (that’s us) is your go-to. The tour takes you to iconic historic restaurants and locations (including the San Telmo Market), and gives you the chance to try the very best dishes in Argentine cuisine, including some unexpected treats you probably haven’t heard about yet.

    There’s drinks, there’s wine, there’s steak (of course) and there’s fun guaranteed (but don’t take our word for it – take a look at our stellar reviews from previous guests).

    Parque Lezama & National History Museum

    If you visit San Telmo on a Sunday, the Defensa Street Fair will eventually lead you to Parque Lezama, a quieter park in the neighborhood. It has its own fair, as most important parks do, but the real highlight here is the National History Museum.

    Housed in a colonial mansion, the museum is a gorgeous architectural piece to visit. If you are lucky, you may catch the grenadier guard change – two granaderos are permanently stationed to watch the sword of national hero José de San Martín, which is kept at the museum. Admission is free, so take a quick peek if you can.

    Modern Art Museum

    Bright, quiet, and often colorful, the Modern Art Museum clashes a little bit with the old flair of San Telmo, but the change is welcome. Admission is free for locals only, but the entrance fee is quite cheap (and free on Wednesdays). Even if modern art isn’t your jam, the museum is the perfect spot to catch a break if you are visiting during the summer months – there’s AC, free wifi, and a lovely little café that serves a great iced latte.

    Pasaje de la Defensa

    While a visit to San Telmo almost always entails a trip to the Market or a stroll through Defensa Street, you should definitely stop by Pasaje de la Defensa (Defensa Alley) during your tour of the area.

    This mansion used to be the home of the aristocratic Ezeiza family back in the 19th century. The Ezeizas fled the place when the yellow fever struck, affecting the area closest to the river. The building was converted into a multi-family tenement home or “conventillo”, as happened with most of the once luxurious mansions in San Telmo and Barracas.

    The present-day Pasaje de la Defensa is a beautiful gallery featuring gorgeous architecture, antique shops, and cafés.

    Casa Mínima

    With just 2.5 meters width (that’s 2,73 yards for our friends from the US) this is the narrowest house in town, and maybe the world (the latter is just a guess, but we Argentines enjoy making claims of being the most at something). The tour is lackluster, but this is a great location to snap a picture (stretch your arms to the sides as much as you can for maximum comedic effect). It’s right around the corner from Defensa Street and Independencia Avenue, so you don’t have to go out of your way to see it.

    Mafalda Statue

    Argentina is pretty well known for our comic strips, with Mafalda being a world-famous character, a beloved local icon, and even a UNESCO ambassador. Fun fact: Mafalda has a small easter egg appearance in the DCU, showing up in a keychain Suicide Squad 2 (which takes place in the fictional “Argentine-adjacent” island of Corto Maltese.

    There’s a Mafalda statue in San Telmo, and people will line up to take a picture with Argentina’s favorite kid. You can skip the queue if you are in San Telmo during the week (usually), or very early during the weekend.

    Comic Strip Walk

    If you are into comic strips, check out the Paseo de la Historieta, i.e. “comic strip walk”. The Mafalda statue is one of many statues that pay homage to the most famous national comic strips. This is a fun walk you can do to explore San Telmo and the nearby areas of Montserrat and Puerto Madero, and a great activity for people of all ages, particularly kids. Here are all the stops!

  • A Local’s Guide to the The Best Pizza in Buenos Aires

    A Local’s Guide to the The Best Pizza in Buenos Aires

    Finding the Best Pizza in Buenos Aires, one slice at a time

    Argentina may be best known for its steak, and Buenos Aires has its fair share of great steakhouses, but the real star of the city – when it comes to food – is the iconic pizza porteña.

    Finding a good slice isn’t hard – just head down to Avenida Corrientes – but finding the best pizza in Buenos Aires is an entirely different matter.

    We did the research, ate a ton of pizza, and came back to share the results with you folks.
    The following are the 6 best pizzerias in town, and the best pizzas to order at each. We’ve also included a Pizza Porteña 101 so you can order with the unabashed confidence of a true porteño.

    Our credentials? We are a bunch of native porteños and expats gone native, all of us food enthusiasts and hosts of the best Buenos Aires Food Tour.

    The List

    • Güerrín (Downtown – Av. Corrientes 1368)
    • La Mezzetta (Colegiales – Av. Álvarez Thomas 1321)
    • El Cuartito (Recoleta – Talcahuano 937)
    • El Imperio de la Pizza (Chacarita – Av. Corrientes 6891)
    • Picsa (Palermo – Nicaragua 4896)

    Pizza Porteña

    Before we start waxing poetically about our top list of the Best Pizzas in Buenos Aires, here are a few things you need to know about “Pizza Porteña”.

    What is pizza porteña?

    Traditional Buenos Aires pizza is called “porteña”, which means “from the port”, and it’s what we call people (and things) from Buenos Aires, which is a port city.
    The marks of pizza porteña are an excess of pretty much everything: the bread is doughy and “spongy”, the cheese is abundant, and the slice is big (two slices make for a quick lunch). It also has a reputation for being greasy, but that is, frankly speaking, part of the charm.

    The cheese: “muzzarella” with u

    Pizza porteña is made with fresh muzzarella cheese, but this local version is very different from the Italian one (and not just because we spell it with an u). Italian mozzarella is very milky and neutral in flavour, while Argentine muzzarella has a bit more kick and a higher fat percentage. Argentine muzzarella is also made using cow milk

    The dough dispute: media masa o a la piedra?

    The dough of the traditional pizza porteña is called “media masa”, it’s cooked with a pizza pan and it takes a longer time to cook, and it’s typically «doughy» and «spongy». Some pizzerias use the “a la piedra” dough, which is flatter, less chewy and with more crunch, and it cooks way faster (also no pan).
    Porteños will argue to the end of the world about which one is better. Our two cents? You do you. Be warned, however, that media masa is the more popular one, and unless otherwise stated, is the one featured throughout this article.

    Fainá: what is it?

    Head to any pizzeria porteña and you will notice a curious item on the menu: fainá, chickpea flour bread that is eaten together with pizza. Because pizza porteña features tons of cheese, you can add more dough to the equation by ordering fainá.

    What to drink with pizza porteña

    If you are on the clock, the most common option is a coke. If not, you can indulge in some Moscato, sweet and fruity white wine with a lower alcohol percentage. It’s very affordable (hence its popular pairing with pizza) and a staple of the Argentine pizza scene.

    The Best Pizzas (& Pizzerias) in Buenos Aires

    Legend has it that Avenida Corrientes has the best pizzerias, and – spoiler – that may very well be true, however, other amazing pizzerias exist elsewhere in the city. We gave you guys plenty of choices with this top 6, so read on!

    Güerrín

    The most famous pizzeria in Buenos Aires, every porteño has stopped by Güerrín at least once to grab a slice during the lunchtime rush – although nowadays the long queues make it a little harder to get in.

    Güerrín’s popularity has gone through the roof in recent years, so expect a crowd at any hour. Some pizza connoisseurs claim that Güerrín’s pizza is not what it used to be since the place was bought by the owners of pizza chain Kentucky before the pandemic.

    Our two cents? Go for the ambiance, but know that the hype is, well, hype. Güerrín is still pretty good, but we have some – arguably – better alternatives in this list. It’s still worth a visit since it’s right there in the heart of the city. Grab a couple of slices and eat by the counter – it doesn’t get much more “Buenos Aires” than that.

    Pizzas to order in Güerrín: go for something classic, like muzzarella, fugazzeta or ham & red pepper.

    guerrin best pizza in buenos aires

    Banchero

    Albeit an Avenida Corrientes classic since the 60s, Banchero got its start in the colorful port area of La Boca, where Genovese baker turned pizza master Agustín Banchero earned his spot in the pizzeria pantheon of Buenos Aires by inventing the fugazzeta.

    This cheesy onion pizza came to be when Banchero decided to stuff a focaccia – fugassa in genovese – with cheese, in order to make the baked good “less dry”. The resulting fugazzeta became one of the most popular pizzas in the history of Argentina.

    Banchero’s original location is in La Boca, but the one in Avenida Corrientes is pretty iconic nonetheless. It even makes a cameo during one pivotal scene in Argentina 1985, the Oscar-nominated film about Argentina’s trial of the de facto military government that took over the country in the seventies (available in Amazon Prime).

    Pizzas to order in Banchero: Fugazzeta is a must, period.

    El Imperio de la Pizza

    Far from downtown but still on Corrientes Avenue, Imperio is a powerhouse when it comes to pizza porteña, and for good reason. Far away from more tourist-y areas like Palermo and Downtown, El Imperio is a testament to classic porteño identity; a mix of fútbol (we ain’t calling it soccer, sorry), tango and local culture, this pizzeria was built for the busy worker who wants to grab a quick slice for lunch and not have it burn a hole in their pocket.

    If you make the trip to Imperio, you might as well explore Chacarita, which is slowly but surely making the transition from underground cool to full-on trendy.

    What to order here: Fugazzeta, Primavera and Spinach.

    La Mezzetta

    A local legend among pizza diehards, La Mezzetta is famous for their stuffed fugazzetta, said to be the very best in town. Tourists caught wind of this hidden gem after it was featured in “Somebody Feed Phil”. Nowadays it’s hard to order a pizza here without having to queue given its rise in popularity among locals and foreigners alike. Try to get there early (before 8 pm) or be prepared to wait.

    There’s no place to sit and dine here: take your pizza to go or eat at the standing counters.

    What to order here: fugazzeta, fugazzeta, and fugazzeta (stuffed, of course).

    El Cuartito

    El Cuartito is another iconic old-school pizzeria located in the heart of Recoleta. It’s guaranteed to get crowded after 8 pm, so get there early if you want to grab a table (otherwise order to go, else you will be waiting forever). No nonsense, no frills and lots of cheese. Football memorabilia lines the wall, in true Buenos Aires fashion.

    What to order at El Cuartito: Fugazzeta (yeah, again) and Napolitana (with tomato slices and dried garlic and parsley). The standard muzzarella is quite good too.

    Picsa

    A new take on traditional pizza porteña, Picsa stands out because of their sourdough pizza crust, with takes their pizza to a whole new level. If the hectic atmosphere of Avenida Corrientes is not for you, Picsa might be a good choice. The location is also ideal, as its located right in the middle of Palermo Soho.

    What pizza to order at Picsa: The Napo (Napolitana) here is excellent. The Libanesa (“lebanese”) is for the risk-takers. They have a pretty decent wine selection here, so do check that out.

    Ready for the Full Buenos Aires Menu?

    Pizza porteña is absolutely essential to the cultural identity of Buenos Aires. The city’s gastronomy tells you so much about our culture, and while pizza is a key chapter, it’s not the whole book.

    Discover Buenos Aires through its Food: If you’re ready to explore all the local flavors—beyond just pizza—join a Sherpa food tour to taste the city’s hidden gems.

    Not ready to book? Keep exploring! Check out our full Buenos Aires Travel Guide.