Armenian cuisine has one of its best exponents in Buenos Aires: Sarkis. This restaurant opens its doors so you can enjoy the best Middle Eastern dishes and the most traditional recipes.
At Sarkis, family recipes are the key to their entire menu. For more than 40 years, they have tried to offer Argentines and tourists a place where they can enjoy typical Armenian dishes.
If you are a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or simply looking to get out of the gastronomic routine, then it is time for you to visit Sarkis.
Sarkis (Buenos Aires): Everything You Need to Know Before Your Visit
What is Sarkis?
Sarkis is one of the most popular Armenian restaurants in Buenos Aires, offering a spacious, informal, and comfortable environment where you can enjoy the rich flavors and unique spices of Armenian cuisine. The restaurant has been a staple in the Villa Crespo neighborhood for over 40 years, attracting a steady flow of visitors eager to savor its traditional dishes.
The secret to Sarkis’ success lies in its authentic recipes, passed down through generations. The restaurant’s menu features classic Armenian dishes with a family touch, and they even offer the traditional option of small plates or half portions, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors. The family-oriented nature of Sarkis is evident, with the wife of Sarkis handling the main dishes and his mother taking charge of the desserts.
Sarkis caters to a diverse crowd, from families and couples to groups of friends. While the clientele changes regularly, many older patrons continue to visit, especially on weekends, adding to the restaurant’s timeless charm.
Where is Sarkis?
Sarkis is located in the Villa Crespo neighborhood, at 1101 Thames Street. It’s just one block from Avenida Córdoba, marking the border with the Palermo neighborhood, and three blocks from Avenida Juan Bautista Justo. This prime location at the intersection of Villa Crespo and Palermo ensures a high flow of people and vehicles throughout the day and night, making it a bustling area with a vibrant gastronomic and commercial scene.
To the north of Sarkis are Palermo Soho and Colegiales, while to the south, Villa Crespo stretches toward its borders with Caballito and Almagro. To the east lies Palermo Soho and, a bit further, Palermo Viejo, while heading west will take you to the Chacarita neighborhood.
How to Get to Sarkis?
The most direct way to reach Sarkis in Villa Crespo is by bus. Several bus lines operate near the restaurant, especially given its proximity to Avenida Córdoba and the Juan Bautista Justo Metrobus. Bus lines you can take to reach Sarkis include: 34, 55, 140, 151, 166, and 168.
Taking the subway is not the most convenient option, as the nearest stations are over 10 blocks away, either north or south. If you choose to take the subway, you’ll need to walk a considerable distance or combine it with a bus ride to avoid a long walk.
Another option is to drive. Whether by car or bicycle (taking advantage of the nearby exclusive bike lanes), the area is well-suited for private transportation. The neighborhood is not particularly touristy, and traffic jams are rare, making it a relatively hassle-free area for driving.
Why Visit Sarkis?
Visiting Sarkis is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Armenian culinary traditions. Here’s what you can expect:
Appetizers and Cold Dishes to Start
Kick off your visit to Sarkis with their delightful cold dishes. These light and refreshing options are perfect for whetting your appetite, and they’re great for sharing with your group.
Recommended dishes include hummus, eggplant, beet, or bell pepper purées, ideal for spreading on bread. You can also try beans, salads, tabbouleh, fried eggplant, or the classic raw meat keppe, among other choices.
Hot Dishes
The highlight for many who visit Sarkis is their selection of hot dishes. The menu here is extensive, offering everything from rice dishes to vegan and vegetarian options, as well as falafel, lamb, and grilled meats.
For grilled meats, Sarkis offers a variety of options, including skewers, beef, chicken, veggie meat, stuffed keppe, and even vegetable skewers.
Sweets and Desserts
Finish your meal with a selection of traditional Middle Eastern sweets like baklava, mamoul, finikia, and kadaif, or choose from more typical Argentine desserts such as ice cream, tiramisu, flan, and strawberries.
Some dessert options come with the possibility of adding cream, ice cream, or dulce de leche for an extra charge.
Wine List and Beverages
To accompany your Armenian meal, Sarkis offers an extensive wine list featuring a wide range of options from Argentine wineries. Whether you prefer red, white, rosé, or sparkling wines for a celebration, there’s something for everyone.
Non-alcoholic beverage options are also available, including the classic oriental coffee.
