Buenos Aires Food
Freshness and pride burst from the ingredients of the food in any corner of Buenos Aires. Rest assured, wherever you choose to eat you are fairly well guaranteed a decent meal.
It may not be the ideal location for vegetarians, however: Argentinia has the highest meat consumption per capita of anywhere in the world and is particularly hailed for its steaks. Argentine steak restaurants have been turned into chains and exported all over the world, but Buenos Aries still remains the best and the original place to get your hands on a good bit of beef.
This reputation, of course, must spring from the plentiful herds of high quality Argentine cattle that thrive on the country's combination of a good climate, plenty of water, good feed and lots of wide, open spaces. There is no doubt about it ? if you come to Buenos Aires to eat, you must visit one of the steak houses (Parrrillas) on your travels. There are so many that whatever budget you have, something will grab your fancy without bringing a tear to your eye.
Crammed full of cafes, the open air culture of Buenos Aires gives a twist to the otherwise European feel. Residents call themselves the 'port people', joking that their ancestors are the immigrants who arrived in the port and set up a new home in the city, creating a colourful scene of which pavement cafes are the centre. Sit and sip a strong coffee while you watch the open air tango contest, or chatter to the locals as you wait for the restaurants to open. As a way of taking the weight off you feet or just soaking in the atmosphere and watching the world go by, the cafes of Buenos Aires are an excellent place to start.
Palermo is one of the hippest areas of the city. Palermo Viejo in particular has grown from its roots as a place of bohemians and intellectuals to become a trendy hangout and gastronomic centre. Sporting more than 40 bars and restaurants centred around the main square of Plaza Serrano, you can find a mix of ethnic establishments (Mediterranean and international) as well as authentic tapas bars around every corner and suitable for all budgets. In the daytime, Palermo Viejo is a haven for designer clothes shoppers and classy home decorators.
One example of the quality and reputation of the Buenos Aires cuisine can be found in the kitchens of El Obrero. While not located amid the happening Palermo scene, it nestles happily in the bohemian chic of the La Boca ('the mouth') neighbourhood, or barrio. Perhaps the city's most famous tavern (bodegon), famous customers to this cheap and hearty-portioned restaurant include Robert Duvall and Bono. A classic example of the Boca atmosphere that grew from Italian immigrants, El Obrero has been gradually building its reputation for over 70 years. The food is mostly meats and pastas, which are highly recommended.
Bear in mind that South Americans tend to dine later, with many restaurants not even opening until 20:00 or 20:30 local time. Meals commonly go on until midnight, so make sure you fit in time for a siesta in the afternoon.
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Eating & Drinking
