Have you ever wondered where to find the best Arabic food in Buenos Aires? ExpatPathways has your answer with our guide to the “10 Best Arabic Food Restaurants in Buenos Aires.”
Whether you’re a digital nomad in search of a culinary adventure, a traveler eager to explore local flavors, or an expat missing the taste of home, these restaurants offer an authentic experience that goes beyond dining.
From the aromatic kitchens of SAMA to the traditional performances at Restaurant Armenia, get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through the top spots in the city where spices and hospitality meet.
Discover where to enjoy memorable meals that will transport you straight to the Middle East without leaving Argentina.
The Best Arabic Food Restaurants in Buenos Aires
1) Sarkis
Location: Thames 1101, Palermo.
Sarkis has been a cornerstone in Buenos Aires for those craving authentic Arabic and Armenian cuisine since its inception in 1982 by Sarkis Kabatián.
Located at Thames and Jufré, this bodegón is famed for its consistent quality and a menu that features traditional delights like falafel, hummus, tabouleh, keppe, and carne al fierrito.
Unique dishes such as stuffed eggplants or long zucchinis and grilled Suyug (Armenian seasoned sausage) also make it a standout. Now managed by Kabatián’s children, the restaurant continues to offer abundant portions at reasonable prices.
Despite not taking reservations and often having long wait times, the restaurant compensates with quick service and a spacious setting. The menu caters extensively to vegan and vegetarian diners, making it a culinary haven for all.
Patrons consistently praise the quality of the food and the attentive staff, making it a highly recommended venue for anyone looking to dive deep into Middle Eastern flavors in Buenos Aires.
2) Al Árabe
Location: El Salvador 4999, Palermo.
Run by a family originally from Syria, Al Árabe has been serving up some of the best shawarma in Buenos Aires for the past 18 years.
Their signature shawarma, crafted from thinly sliced beef milanesa marinated for over a day in a mix of seven spices and baharat, is served with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a garlic-yogurt sauce, all wrapped in trustworthy locally-sourced bread.
This place is celebrated not just for its shawarma but for being a purveyor of genuine Arabic food made by Arabs, providing a unique taste experience that stands out in the city.
The simple yet spacious venue offers both indoor and outdoor seating, where guests can enjoy generous and well-prepared dishes like the beef shawarma wrap and hummus with Arabic bread at reasonable prices.
The excellent service and hearty portions have earned Al Árabe high praise from locals and visitors alike, solidifying its reputation as a go-to destination for authentic Arabic cuisine in Buenos Aires.
3) Al Zein
Location: Federico Lacroze 1660, Belgrano.
Founded in 2010 by Syrian brothers Mozer and Hany Tarabishi, who brought with them extensive experience from operating three restaurants in Damascus, Al Zein has quickly become a favorite spot among the Arab community in Buenos Aires.
This is a testament to its authentic Syrian flavors, which are considered some of the best in the city. Notable dishes include the Jalal beef shawarma, spiced to perfection and served with smooth yogurt, and the crispy, freshly fried falafel.
The restaurant also offers a variety of roasted meats, traditional meals, and desserts. Praised for its quick service and the quality of its dishes, Al Zein provides a warm atmosphere that extends to its outdoor seating equipped with heaters, making it comfortable year-round.
The restaurant does not sell alcoholic beverages due to cultural reasons, but guests are welcome to bring their own, adding to the accommodating nature of the venue.
Whether you are picking up a quick meal or sitting down for a feast, Al Zein delivers both meat and vegetarian options that are richly flavored and generously portioned.
4) Demashk
Location: Charcas 3816, Palermo.
Located just off Scalabrini Ortiz on Charcas Street, Demashk is a modest establishment renowned for its Middle Eastern specialties such as baked keppe, falafel, and hummus.
The shawarma, a highlight of the menu, can be enjoyed at the small bar or at the street-side metal tables, where it’s served with a deliciously balanced tajine and very thin pita bread. True to its roots, the restaurant does not serve alcohol for religious reasons.
Demashk stands out for offering one of the city’s best shawarmas with an authentic Syrian recipe brought by its owner, Balil, which is notably spicier than the local adaptations typically found elsewhere.
The venue is small, often requiring a wait due to its popularity, but the wait is well worth it for the quality of its genuine Syrian recipes. Other offerings include falafel, raw keppe, and exceptionally tasty Sfija—Arabic empanadas filled with meat, tomato, and onion.
The quality of the ingredients is top-notch, and the relaxed atmosphere, complete with both indoor and outdoor seating, makes Demashk a fantastic spot for enjoying great food at excellent prices.
5) Restaurant Armenia
Location: Armenia 1366, Palermo.
Located in Palermo Soho, Restaurant Armenia stands as a beacon of Armenian culinary tradition in Buenos Aires, serving up a rich array of dishes passed down through generations.
A cultural icon within the Armenian community, the restaurant not only offers a diverse menu but also hosts traditional dance shows on Fridays and Saturdays, adding an authentic flair to the dining experience.
Favorites include the Basterna, an oriental-style smoked ham, and the aphrodisiac Belén Salad for couples. Their grilled brochettes and the Pashá Boreg, a unique lasagna made with phyllo dough, minced meat, onions, and exotic spices, are particularly noteworthy.
With its elegant ambiance and meticulous attention to detail, Restaurant Armenia is highly recommended for a refined evening out.
Patrons often praise the excellent service and suggest starting with one of the assorted platters or opting for a complete meal that includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert, with some options also including drinks. A special mention goes to their freshly made lemonade, infused with mint and lemon.
6) Iusef
Location: Scalabrini Ortiz 1269, Palermo.
In the bustling neighborhood of Palermo, Iusef offers a vibrant and homely atmosphere perfect for experiencing Arabic cuisine. Known for its lively, family-friendly setting, this restaurant is an excellent choice for groups wanting to explore a variety of dishes.
The menu features reasonably priced, high-quality ingredients with standout dishes like Carne al fierrito and Shej el Mashi—fried eggplants stuffed with minced meat and onions, seasoned with Syrian spices, and topped with tomato sauce.
Desserts like the traditional Backlawa and Mamul de dátiles further highlight their culinary offerings. Guests have consistently lauded Iusef for its impeccable cleanliness, attentive service, and the ability to quickly accommodate diners even on busy nights.
Recommendations from the staff include trying limited edition desserts like knafe when available.
The overall experience at Iusef is frequently described as exceptional, with delicious food, excellent hummus, refreshing lemonade, and a welcoming atmosphere making it a top recommendation for anyone looking to delve into Arabic cuisine in Buenos Aires.
7) Midani
Location: Vidal 1631, Belgrano.
Located in the Belgrano neighborhood, Midani stands out as a superb dining destination for lovers of Arabic cuisine. Praised for its delicious and substantial shawarma offerings, Midani provides a satisfying meal at a reasonable price.
Customers rave about the incredible flavors of their shawarma, falafel, and hummus, noting that portions are generous enough to share. The garlic sauce, in particular, has been highlighted as “out of this world.”
First-time visitors often become instant fans, especially after trying specialties like the falafel XL and the uniquely flavored hummus.
The casual yet welcoming atmosphere, combined with friendly and efficient service, makes Midani a highly recommended spot for anyone craving authentic Arabic dishes in Buenos Aires.
The restaurant also garners special praise for its attentive staff, who contribute significantly to the positive dining experience.
8) Habibim
Location: Blanco Encalada 2435, Belgrano.
Habibim in Belgrano invites diners to indulge in rich flavors and exceptional hospitality. The owner-chef’s passion for his craft and welcoming nature shines through, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Known for its excellent shawarma, which is generous in size and uniquely spiced, Habibim offers a menu that consistently impresses with its quality and freshness. Favorites include their shawarma, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside fries, and the soft, freshly baked bread.
Dessert lovers will enjoy the coffee and baklava, a perfect ending to any meal. The family combo is a popular choice for groups, providing a taste of various menu items.
Patrons commend the restaurant for its remarkable service and consider Habibim a top destination for anyone seeking the best shawarma in the area.
The thoughtful attention to dietary needs, such as low-salt options, further sets Habibim apart, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors looking for high-quality Arabic cuisine in a comfortable setting.
9) SAMA
Location: Gorriti 4098, Palermo.
Located in the bustling neighborhood of Palermo, SAMA stands out as a top choice for Arabic cuisine enthusiasts. Patrons rave about the exceptional quality of the dishes, particularly praising the hummus and eggplant cream as divine.
The kibbe at SAMA is notably larger than what is typically offered elsewhere, and the shawarma is celebrated for its flavor and generous filling. Besides these, both the fried and baked keppe are must-tries.
The staff, who are reportedly the owners, provide attentive service, readily offering recommendations to those unfamiliar with Arabic cuisine. Customers have consistently noted the quick service, with dishes arriving promptly after ordering.
The restaurant’s ambiance and the friendly, knowledgeable service make it highly recommended for both dine-in and takeout. Many visitors have been impressed enough to become regulars, attracted by the ample portions, delicious food, and reasonable prices.
To top off the dining experience, guests often receive a complimentary Arabic tea with traditional sweets, showcasing the establishment’s commitment to authentic hospitality.
10) Laialy
Location: Av. Raúl Scalabrini Ortiz 1426, Palermo.
Laialy offers a unique gourmet Arabic dining and entertainment experience in Palermo, setting itself apart with live music and dance performances that immerse diners in Middle Eastern culture.
The restaurant is known for its high-quality dishes and the vibrant atmosphere created by world-renowned singers, live orchestras, and traditional dabke dance performances.
The dining experience is designed to be perfect in every detail, ensuring that every guest feels thoroughly entertained and satisfied. Regular patrons appreciate the upscale ambiance and the extensive, high-quality menu featuring favorites like babaganush, stuffed grape leaves, and freshly baked bread.
Laialy’s dinner shows are particularly popular, providing not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the senses with engaging live performances that last throughout the evening.
Meals typically include an appetizer, main course, and dessert, with the appetizer course offering a variety of dishes served family-style, allowing guests to sample everything on the table.
The total experience can last between three to four hours, making it a memorable evening of culinary and cultural delight.
(Featured Image Source: Israel Albornoz/unsplash.com)
