22 Unique Restaurants in Buenos Aires: Armenian Dishes, Secret Courtyards, and More

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Buenos Aires, a true gem in Argentina, is a city where food, culture, and South American charm collide. Known for its legendary parrillas like Don Julio, it’s also home to unique culinary gems like Armenian dishes at Medio Oriente and secret courtyard dining at Casa Cavia. Named one of the top places to live and visit in Argentina, Buenos Aires offers dining experiences as vibrant as its tango culture.

Picture enjoying handmade pasta in historic bodegones, sipping cocktails at a chic rooftop bar, or exploring the city’s immigrant-inspired food scene. With its blend of tradition, innovation, and stunning settings, Buenos Aires is a food lover’s dream.

In this guide, discover 22 unforgettable restaurants showcasing why this city is one of the most beautiful places in Argentina.

👉 Pro Tip:The Palermo Food Tour is a must! Taste authentic Argentine dishes, explore Buenos Aires’ trendiest neighborhood, and dive into local food culture. It’s an unforgettable way to experience this gem in Argentina!

Unusual places to eat in Buenos Aires

Ready to discover what Buenos Aires has on its menu? From buzzing pizzerias to secret empanada havens, we’re set to explore the city’s most extraordinary eateries. Join me as we uncover the quirkiest places to eat in Buenos Aires.

Craving a steak in a soccer-themed restaurant? How about enjoying homemade gelato in a courtyard garden? Buenos Aires’s dining scene is as diverse as its culture. Let’s dive into Buenos Aires’s most unique dining experiences after you fly to Argentina.

1. Parrilla La Brigada

• 📍 Location: San Telmo
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $70 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic Argentine Parrilla (Steakhouse)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Soccer-themed decor, tender meats, extensive Argentine wine list.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Steak connoisseurs (especially Argentine cuts!), San Telmo explorers, and soccer fans.

Prepare for a carnivore’s carnival at Parrilla La Brigada! This legendary San Telmo steakhouse is a Buenos Aires institution, famous for its soccer-themed decor and unbelievably tender steaks, often cut with a spoon at your table. ¡Que Lomo!

Ordering classic Argentine cuts like juicy bife de chorizo (sirloin strip steak) is a great plan. The incredibly tender lomo (tenderloin) or the flavorful asado de tira (short ribs) are also fantastic. Pair with a robust Argentine Malbec.

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2. Niño Gordo

Niño Gordo is where Buenos Aires’ cool kids and foodies alike gather for an eccentric blend of Argentine-Asian grill magic. Imagine a Tokyo izakaya meets Palermo tattoo parlor, full of lanterns, dragon murals, and playful cartoon pig décor. This isn’t your average parrilla – it’s more of a fever dream of wagyu empanadas, kimchi-infused grilled meats, and mind-bending gyoza. Absolutely do not miss the pork belly yakitori or their famous bao buns with crispy fried oyster. Cocktails come as wild as the décor (the yuzu negroni is an Instagram darling). The vibe is always buzzing, so reserve ahead. You’re just around the corner from the bustling Armenia Square – the perfect spot for a stroll after your meal. I walked out grinning, surprised by every bite (and secretly wanting a Niño Gordo pig tee).

3. Pizzería Güerrín

• 📍 Location: Avenida Corrientes (Theater District)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic Argentine Pizza (al molde – deep dish)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic pizzeria (since 1932), standing room “de parado” pizza eating, classic “al molde” thick-crust pizza.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Argentine pizza enthusiasts, thick-crust fans, budget diners, and theatergoers.

This ain’t your average slice! Dive into a Buenos Aires institution at Pizzería Güerrín, serving legendary “al molde” (deep-dish style) pizza since 1932. Get ready for a gloriously cheesy, wonderfully chaotic, and authentically Porteño experience!

Join the crowds and grab a slice “de parado” (standing at the counter). You should try their classic muzzarella (cheese pizza) loaded with molten goodness. The iconic fugazzeta (onion and cheese pizza) or a slice of jamón y morrones (ham and red peppers) are also must-haves.

4. Julia Restaurante

Julia Restaurante is an intimate, understated gem in Villa Crespo, run by chef Julia Ramos who single-handedly changed my mind about what Argentine cuisine can be. The eight-seat dining bar is the main stage for her contemporary tasting menus – every plate feels like passing art from chef to guest. Must-tries: sweetbread tartlet and the homemade sourdough, paired with perfectly quirky natural wines. There are no paper menus; expect chef’s choice and a story behind each dish. The setting is moody and minimalist with an open kitchen, so you’ll smell sizzling butter and hear the chef’s playlist. Hidden on a leafy residential street, it’s steps from Mercat Villa Crespo if you want even more food adventure after. The attention to detail and intimate size made it feel like a private dinner party – I left with my mind racing from inspiration.

5. Casa Cavia

• 📍 Location: Palermo Chico
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $80+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale Modern Argentine / Seasonal
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic mansion setting with a bookstore, perfumery, and flower shop, elegant courtyard, seasonal dishes, and sophisticated cocktails.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Romantic occasions, architectural lovers, cocktail drinkers, and experiencing Palermo Chico elegance.

Dine in a dream at Casa Cavia! Housed in a breathtakingly beautiful historic mansion in chic Palermo Chico, this spot is more than a restaurant – it’s an experience, complete with a bookstore, perfumery, and flower shop. It’s where culinary art meets architectural beauty.

Indulge in refined modern Argentine cuisine. Expect dishes like delicate fresh pasta creations with seasonal sauces. Perfectly cooked local fish like Patagonian toothfish, or their artful desserts, also showcase their sophistication. Enjoy an elegant brunch in the stunning courtyard.

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6. La Carniceria Meat Market

This is not your grandpa’s steakhouse. La Carniceria fuses hipster aesthetics with primal grill mastery – think exposed brick, tattooed chefs, and a chilled-out playlist that manages to make every cut of beef feel like an event. Get the ojo de bife (ribeye) smoked over native woods or, if you dare, their morcilla (blood sausage) with caramelized apple. The glass-enclosed, smoky open kitchen gives you dinner and a show. Expect communal tables crowded with locals and expats. Located on a lively block in Palermo Soho, you’re just steps from late-night cocktail bars. Personally, I could spend hours with their beef tartare (and did).

7. Sarkis

• 📍 Location: Villa Crespo
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Authentic Armenian / Middle Eastern
• 🔥 Standout Features: Large menu of classic dishes with generous portions for sharing.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Armenian food lovers, Middle Eastern feasts, and sharing dishes.

Prepare for an Armenian avalanche of amazingness at Sarkis! This Villa Crespo institution is legendary in Buenos Aires for its authentic, delicious, and incredibly generous Armenian and Middle Eastern fare. Get ready to queue – it’s always packed for a reason!

Gather your friends and share an array of classic dishes. Dive into creamy hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, and flavorful kibbeh nahye (raw kibbeh). Succulent grilled kebabs (beef, chicken, or lamb) or the rich mantı (Armenian dumplings) are also must-tries.

8. Mengano

Step into Mengano and you’re immediately greeted by punchy graffiti, collected vintage plates, and a playlist that sounds like whatever the chef is currently into. This spot rethinks Argentine home-cooking with serious chef chops – quirky, comforting, never predictable. Don’t sleep on the fried mollejas (sweetbreads) or homemade tagliatelle with wild mushroom ragù. The loungey, laid-back vibe is perfect for either date night or a loud, laughter-filled dinner with friends. It’s a short stroll to Plaza Serrano’s bustling nightlife, so save room for a post-dinner amaro next door. I left feeling both full and like I’d just hung out in the coolest chef’s apartment in the city.

9. El Preferido de Palermo

• 📍 Location: Palermo, Buenos Aires
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Traditional Argentine Bodegón / Updated Classics
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic “bodegón,” house-cured meats/charcuterie, quality ingredients.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Classic bodegones, charcuterie lovers, Palermo explorers, and traditional dining.

Step into a beautifully preserved piece of Palermo’s past at El Preferido de Palermo. This historic “bodegón” (classic BA bistro) has been stunningly updated, retaining its old-world charm while serving incredible traditional Argentine fare with a focus on quality.

Indulging in their exceptional house-made charcuterie and cheese boards is highly recommended. Savor classic dishes like perfectly executed milanesa de lomo (breaded beef tenderloin), comforting stews like locro (when available), or their excellent vitello tonnato.

10. Restaurante Corte Comedor

Corte Comedor is minimalist, masculine, and utterly meat-obsessed (in the best way). You’ll find floor-to-ceiling windows facing the working butcher shop, so you know exactly where your steak is coming from. Chef Santiago Garat is all about traceability and technique – the bife de chorizo here is legendary, best with homemade chimichurri and a glass of local malbec. There’s a casual, slightly industrial feel to the dining room, with concrete floors and sharp knife details everywhere. I genuinely thought I’d spoiled myself for any other steak after this.

11. La Cocina

• 📍 Location: Recoleta
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Empanadas (Focus on Northern Argentine style)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Regional Northern Argentine empanadas, budget-friendly meals.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Empanada fans, budget-conscious foodies, and quick bites.

Empanada excellence awaits at La Cocina! This tiny, unassuming spot in Recoleta is legendary for one thing: serving some of the best, most authentic regional empanadas in Buenos Aires. Forget fancy – this is all about flavor!

Choose from a variety of perfectly baked or fried empanadas. The carne picante (spicy beef) is a must-try. Creamy humita (corn filling) or the classic jamón y queso (ham and cheese) are also fantastic. It’s quick, incredibly delicious, and wonderfully affordable.

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12. El Preferido de Palermo

El Preferido is a pink-hued corner cantina that’s become a must-hit for anyone craving classic porteño comfort food with a modern twist. The pastel tiles, old-school bar, and retro photos give it a warm, throwback vibe – like you’ve stepped into a family-run spot from the 1950s, minus any kitsch. The milanesa a caballo (breaded steak with a fried egg) is massive and unforgettable, or order the tortilla de papas for something lighter. Their vermouth on tap might just be the best in Buenos Aires. Space fills up quick, especially for a sunny lunch, so get there early. Afterward, stroll down to Plaza Armenia to people-watch. When I bit into their housemade pickles, I couldn’t help thinking these folks really care about every little detail.

13. Daniel Bakery

• 📍 Location: Multiple locations in Buenos Aires
• 💲 Price range: $5 – $15 per person (Pastries/Coffee)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American-Style Bakery / Pastries / Coffee
• 🔥 Standout Features: New York-style cheesecake/red velvet, American-inspired baked goods, sweet treats/coffee.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Cheesecakes, American pastries, and coffee breaks.

Get your American sweet treat fix in BA at Daniel Bakery! This popular spot brings a taste of classic American baking to Buenos Aires, famous for its incredible New York-style cheesecake, rich red velvet cake, and other indulgent pastries. It’s a sweet escape!

Grabbing a slice of their legendary New York-style cheesecake – dense, creamy, and utterly satisfying – is essential. Their decadent red velvet cake or a classic chocolate chip cookie also hit the spot. Pair it with a quality coffee.

14. Hierbabuena

Hierbabuena brings a bright, leafy, sustainability-forward spirit to the always-buzzing San Telmo neighborhood. It’s the spot for those craving fresh, inventive vegetarian and vegan-forward plates. Don’t miss their epic Superfood Bowl or the banana bread French toast with coconut caramel (absolutely photogenic). Seating spills onto the lively sidewalk and inside, lush plants dangle from the ceiling – it feels like dining in a friend’s urban greenhouse. They’re big on smoothies and cold-pressed juices, plus there’s a killer cocktail menu starring local herbs. Pop over to the nearby Feria San Telmo on weekends. I lingered long after my meal, soaking in the sunshine and ultra-chill playlist.

15. Chacaito Caribbean Food Station

• 📍 Location: Palermo (Often Food Truck/Casual Spot)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Venezuelan / Caribbean Street Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Venezuelan arepas/patacones, street food/food truck vibe, affordable.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Arepa adventurers, fans of Caribbean street food, quick eats, and authentic Venezuelan bites.

¡Sabor Caribeño! Get a vibrant taste of the Caribbean at Chacaito Caribbean Food Station. This spot brings the sunny flavors of Venezuela and the islands to BA, often in a lively street food or casual eatery setting. Get ready for an explosion of tropical taste!

Dive into delicious and hearty arepas (cornmeal patties). The reina pepiada (chicken and avocado) or carne mechada (shredded beef) are fantastic fillings. Don’t miss out on crispy patacones (fried plantains) or their refreshing papelón con limón.

16. Anchoita

Anchoita is a destination for food nerds and cheese lovers, tucked away on a quieter corner of Chacarita. The vibe is elegant but unstuffy, with a sunlit open kitchen, vinyl sound system, and a cheese cave that would make any turophile weep. Start with the hand-cut steak tartare (served with warm focaccia) and don’t leave without sampling something from Argentina’s most ambitious cheese cart. Their wine list rules, with rare bottles spotlighting smaller Argentine vintners. Ideal for a lingering dinner, especially if you appreciate impeccable service. Right after, swing by the nearby Malba art installations or hit one of Chacarita’s hidden bars. Discovering Anchoita felt like a level-up for my BA dining game.

17. El Buen Sabor Africano

• 📍 Location: Balvanera (Once area), Buenos Aires
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: West African (Often Senegalese focus)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Flavorful stews (mafe/yassa), traditional dishes served with rice/couscous.
• 🎯 Perfect For: West African food, adventurous eaters, savory stews, and cultural immersion.

Journey to West Africa at El Buen Sabor Africano (“The Good African Taste”)! This hidden gem in Balvanera offers a rare and authentic taste of Senegalese and West African cuisine. Prepare for a delicious discovery of unique spice blends.

Indulging in rich and flavourful traditional stews like mafe (peanut stew with chicken or lamb) is a great idea. Tangy yassa (onion and lemon stew with fish or chicken), or hearty thieboudienne (fish and rice), are also must-tries, served with rice or couscous.

18. Gran Dabbang

If you want a wild, flavor-packed experience without the white tablecloths, Gran Dabbang is it. The cozy, crowded dining room is always buzzing and the menu draws bold inspiration from India and Southeast Asia, with Argentine ingredients. The lamb curry is straight-up legendary, and the crispy fried cauliflower with tamarind-chile jam is another must-order. Expect vibrant murals, Bollywood playlists, and a crowd that’s there for good times and even better food. Heads up: no reservations, so arrive early or get comfy with a line. You’re close enough to the Malabia subway for an easy trip anywhere after. I always leave with spice-induced happy tears and a new appreciation for creative mashups.

19. Rapa Nui

• 📍 Location: Multiple locations in Buenos Aires
• 💲 Price range: $8 – $20 per person (Ice Cream/Chocolates)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Artisan Ice Cream (Helado) / Chocolates
• 🔥 Standout Features: Patagonian artisan helado/chocolate, unique ice cream, high-quality chocolates.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Ice cream fans, chocolate lovers, and high-quality desserts.

Prepare for a sweet avalanche of Patagonian perfection at Rapa Nui! This legendary artisan heladería (ice cream shop) and chocolatería brings the incredible flavors of Patagonia to Buenos Aires. Forget plain vanilla – this is ice cream elevated to an art form!

Trying their unique helado flavors is essential. The dulce de leche granizado (caramel with chocolate chips) is a classic. Rich chocolate Patagónico or fruity sorbets like frambuesa (raspberry) are also fantastic. Don’t leave without sampling their exquisite chocolates.

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20. Aramburu Relais & Châteaux

Aramburu is for serious fine dining fans, hidden in plain sight in the Recoleta neighborhood. Chef Gonzalo Aramburu’s tasting menus are technical, poetic, and absolutely worth the splurge. Dishes like smoke-kissed Patagonian trout and truffle-infused beef tartare arrive on custom ceramics with theatrical flair – there’s always a surprise. The ambiance is sleek, dark, and intimate, making this a top pick for milestone celebrations or proposals. Expect jazz in the background and some of Buenos Aires’ friendliest, most knowledgeable waitstaff. I floated out of here half-drunk on beauty as much as wine.

21. Don Julio

• 📍 Location: Palermo Soho, Buenos Aires
• 💲 Price range: $70 – $150+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: High-End Argentine Parrilla (Steakhouse)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Grass-fed beef/organic produce, exceptional wine list, classic parrilla experience.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Steak connoisseurs, wine lovers, fine dining, world-class Argentine beef, and Palermo Soho splurges.

Experience Argentine parrilla perfection at the world-renowned Don Julio in Palermo Soho. Consistently ranked among the world’s best, this spot elevates the steakhouse experience with exceptional quality grass-fed beef, organic produce, and an incredible wine program.

Savoring perfectly grilled cuts like ojo de bife (ribeye) or entraña (skirt steak) is a must. Their provoleta (grilled provolone cheese) or house-made chorizo are excellent starters. While a splurge, Don Julio delivers unparalleled Argentine culinary excellence.

22. Asian Cantina

• 📍 Location: Retiro / Microcentro
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Pan-Asian / Southeast Asian Fusion
• 🔥 Standout Features: Diverse menu (Thai/Vietnamese/Chinese etc)
• 🎯 Perfect For: Asian fusion, Thai/Vietnamese/Chinese flavors, casual eats.

Take a whirlwind tour of Asia’s best flavors at Asian Cantina! This vibrant spot offers a diverse and delicious journey through various Southeast Asian cuisines, all under one roof. It’s a United Nations of deliciousness! The modern, lively atmosphere makes it great for a casual lunch.

Explore a menu featuring fragrant Thai green curry with chicken or vegetables. Fresh Vietnamese summer rolls with peanut dipping sauce, or savory Chinese dumplings (potstickers), are also popular. Their spicy noodle dishes are also worth trying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the quirkiest restaurants in Buenos Aires

Are you searching for more information about where to eat in Buenos Aires? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Buenos Aires’ most unique restaurants.

What food is Buenos Aires known for?

Buenos Aires is famous for its steak. The beef here is top-notch, often grilled to perfection on a parrilla (barbecue). Don’t miss trying empanadas and pizza, too.

What is a typical Argentinian breakfast?

A typical Argentinian breakfast is simple: medialunas (croissants, but sweeter) paired with a café con leche (milky coffee). Sometimes, toast with dulce de leche or cheese and ham is common.

Is Argentinian food spicy?

No, Argentinian food isn’t typically spicy. The cuisine here focuses more on natural flavors, especially beef without heavy spices. However, you can always find chimichurri sauce on the side for a bit of a kick.

Why do Argentinians eat so much meat?

Argentinians eat a lot of meat due to the country’s vast cattle farming, which makes beef plentiful and affordable. It’s a cultural thing, too, with asado (barbecue) being a popular social activity. Meat is just a big part of life here, celebrated in many dishes and gatherings.