Are you a digital nomad, traveler, or expat hungry for a taste of authentic Argentine cuisine? Dive into our ExpatPathways guide to the best milanesa in Buenos Aires, where we uncover the top spots for this beloved Argentine classic.
From the bustling streets of Monserrat to the trendy corners of Palermo, we’ve explored the city’s must-visit eateries that perfect this breaded masterpiece.
Prepare your palate for a culinary journey through traditional bodegones and stylish steakhouses, each offering a unique twist on the quintessential milanesa. Don’t just eat like a local—feast like one!
The Best Milanesa in Buenos Aires
1. Los Chanchitos
Location: Av. Angel Gallardo 601, Caballito.
At the heart of Caballito lies Los Chanchitos, a beloved bodegón known for its mouthwatering Argentine dishes and its transformation into a successful cooperative by its employees in 2013.
Here, guests can expect generous portions, high-quality meat, and a warm, familial atmosphere. The restaurant does not accept reservations, so arriving early is advised to secure a spot in this bustling locale.
Whether it’s the tender and flavorful meat or the perfectly cooked dishes served by veteran staff members, Los Chanchitos delivers a dining experience that is both satisfying and nostalgically rich.
2. Don Ignacio
Location: Av. Rivadavia 3439, Almagro.
Just a short distance away in Almagro, Don Ignacio offers a different yet equally memorable milanesa experience.
Set against a backdrop of Argentine rock and roll, this cozy bodegón serves up a variety of milanesas alongside traditional Argentine fare like empanadas and flan.
Whether you choose the classic milanesa, the napolitana topped with ham and cheese, or the innovative olive and arugula version, each dish promises a delightful crunch and is large enough to satisfy hearty appetites or to take home for later.
Patrons often praise the attentive service and the detailed rock-themed décor, making Don Ignacio not just a meal, but a must-visit destination on Buenos Aires’ culinary map.
3. El Club de la Milanesa
Location: Azcuénaga 1898, Recoleta.
El Club de la Milanesa, established in 2007, has quickly grown into one of Argentina’s most significant milanesa restaurant chains with multiple locations across Buenos Aires.
The chain prides itself on an innovative concept focused solely on this quintessentially Argentine dish.
Patrons rave about the variety, including a tasting platter that offers six types of milanesas—three chicken and three beef—accompanied by generously topped fries.
The environment is consistently praised for its comfort, good music, and attentive service, making it a favored choice for both locals and visitors looking for a hearty and authentic dining experience.
4. La Farola
Location: Av. Santa Fe 1857, Recoleta.
La Farola stands out as a historical institution with up to 20 outlets scattered around the Greater Buenos Aires area, testament to its popularity and long-standing tradition in serving milanesas.
Customers highlight the “milanesa a la napolitana con fritas” as a particularly abundant and delicious option, often large enough to serve more than the stated portion size.
The variety of milanesas on offer, each customizable with different toppings and sizes, ensures that every visit can offer a new taste experience.
Besides milanesas, La Farola also delights with other dishes, such as ricotta, ham, and walnut ravioli in a Mediterranean sauce, providing a rich and fulfilling culinary adventure.
Both the quality of the food and the exceptional service contribute to La Farola’s reputation as a must-visit destination for milanesa lovers.
5. El Obrero
Location: Agustín Caffarena 64, La Boca.
El Obrero, located in the vibrant La Boca neighborhood, is an iconic bodegón celebrated not just for its delicious milanesas but also for its hearty portions and welcoming atmosphere.
Situated near the famed La Bombonera stadium, El Obrero offers a traditional Argentinian dining experience, complete with homemade fries and a variety of grilled meats.
Despite the area’s reputation, visitors find the journey worthwhile, noting the cozy and sports-themed decor that adds to the authentic ambiance.
The restaurant’s focus on quality and familial service makes it a recommended destination for those looking to enjoy a slice of local life.
6. Los Orientales
Location: Av. Rivadavia 3981, Almagro.
On the other hand, Los Orientales in the Almagro neighborhood stands out for its extensive milanesa menu, boasting over 60 variations of this beloved dish.
With a history spanning over 33 years, this restaurant caters to groups and sports fans, making it a popular spot to watch football matches.
The ambiance is inviting, with generous home-style meals that reflect the owners’ Uruguayan heritage.
Dishes like the “Milanesa Montevideo” are particularly notable for their lavish toppings and large portions, ideal for sharing.
Patrons appreciate the friendly service and the thoughtful touches, such as the take-home bags provided for leftovers, enhancing the dining experience at Los Orientales.
7. Grandes Carnicerías del Plata
Location: Chile 592, Monserrat.
In the heart of Monserrat, near the bustling docks of Puerto Madero, Grandes Carnicerías del Plata transforms a historic butcher’s shop into one of Buenos Aires’ premier steakhouses.
Retaining its original mosaic floors, white tile walls, and meat hooks, the ambiance combines contemporary style with nostalgic touches, including old photographs.
Patrons enjoy not only the finely crafted milanesas but also a range of other high-quality meats and dishes.
The steakhouse is renowned for its attentive service and top-notch dining experience, making it a staple recommendation for both meat lovers and those exploring the culinary delights of Buenos Aires.
The milanesa de bife de chorizo is especially praised for its size and flavor, becoming a standout dish alongside their delicious provoletas and traditional Argentine starters.
8. El Preferido de Palermo
Location: Jorge Luis Borges 2108, Palermo.
Meanwhile, in the trendy neighborhood of Palermo, El Preferido de Palermo has evolved from a classic bodegón to a modern restaurant since its inception in 1952.
It offers a rich array of dishes including various takes on milanesa, homemade sausages, seasonal vegetables, and other Argentine staples. The restaurant is particularly noted for its inviting atmosphere and the quality of its milanesas, which are considered some of the best in the city.
Patrons commend the professional staff and the lively environment, suggesting that reservations are a wise choice to avoid waits.
El Preferido de Palermo not only serves up exceptional food but also creates a memorable dining experience with its blend of traditional flavors and modern culinary techniques.
Whether it’s the seafood, the milanesa, or the artisanal ice cream, every dish is prepared with care, making it a must-visit for anyone in Buenos Aires.
9. La Capitana
Location: Guardia Vieja 4446, Almagro.
La Capitana in Almagro is a nostalgic nod to the 1940s and 50s, themed around the iconic Eva Perón. This spot not only offers a step back in time but also serves up some of the most homestyle milanesas in Buenos Aires.
Using top-quality rump steak that’s marinated for 24 hours in mustard, garlic, and parsley, and breaded with fine breadcrumbs, La Capitana crafts dishes that are both flavorful and generously portioned.
The classic ‘a caballo’ milanesa comes with two fried eggs and fries, while another popular choice features homemade tomato sauce, ham, mozzarella, and sautéed cherry tomatoes with olive oil and garlic.
Patrons rave about the excellent service, fabulous drinks from the well-stocked bar, and the inviting atmosphere that strikes a perfect balance between lively and tranquil.
10. El Antojo
Location: Av. Pedro Goyena 583, Caballito.
El Antojo is renowned for winning an award for the best milanesa, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit for milanesa enthusiasts.
With locations in Villa del Parque, Núñez, and Caballito, El Antojo offers a vast array of milanesas, each available with various toppings and sizes.
The milanesas are described as exceptionally large, making them ideal for sharing between two people, and come highly recommended for their reasonable prices and delicious sides, including a plentiful serving of fries.
Favorites among patrons include the napolitana milanesa topped with fried egg and bacon, as well as the chicken milanesa with cheddar and bacon, all of which showcase the creative flair and quality that El Antojo brings to this Argentine staple.
(Featured Image Source: Kevin Soto/flickr.com)
