Have you ever wondered where the locals in Buenos Aires go to enjoy a night out? Let ExpatPathways lead the way with our curated list of the 10 best bars in San Telmo.
Ideal for digital nomads, expats, and travelers alike, this guide promises to take you on a journey through quaint cobblestone streets to discover the pulsating heart of San Telmo’s bar scene.
From craft beer havens to cocktail connoisseur’s delights, each bar offers a unique experience that epitomizes the spirit of Buenos Aires.
Ready to see where the night takes you in one of the city’s most charismatic neighborhoods?
The Best Bars in San Telmo (Buenos Aires)
1) Doppelganger Bar
Location: Av. Juan de Garay 500.
Doppelganger Bar in Buenos Aires is a sanctuary for serious cocktail enthusiasts, priding itself on a hardcore approach to classic and forgotten cocktails, and famously not offering any beer, wine, or soda.
The bar offers a meticulous cocktail experience, boasting over 100 different concoctions from various whiskey mixes to refreshing classics like the Tom Collins and Ramos Gin Fizz. Each drink is crafted with extreme care, using only the finest ingredients like chilled Bohemian crystal glassware and precisely chosen ice, ensuring every sip is a testament to high-quality mixology.
The ambiance at Doppelganger is as meticulously curated as its cocktails, featuring a lively atmosphere complemented by an excellently chosen music playlist. Patrons often commend the personalized service, highlighting the bartenders’ knack for recommending drinks based on individual taste preferences, which makes each visit uniquely enjoyable.
Regulars and newcomers alike rave about the Bloody Mary, but every cocktail served is a hit. Positioned as one of the top three cocktail bars in Buenos Aires, Doppelganger is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in world-class cocktail craftsmanship.
2) El Banco Rojo
Location: Bolívar 866.
El Banco Rojo stands out in San Telmo not just for its delicious draft beer and burgers but also for its surprisingly affordable prices and the ever-changing daily specials that keep locals coming back.
The place offers a creative twist on casual dining with unique homemade sauces like beetroot mayonnaise and bacon jam, enhancing an already diverse menu. Their tacos and burgers are loaded with inventive toppings such as crispy bacon and pickled red onion, making each bite a flavorful adventure.
This bustling spot is celebrated for having the best burger in Buenos Aires, with the LB burger being a particular favorite, often enjoyed with a perfectly cooked egg on top. The lively atmosphere is always complemented by good music and friendly service, making it a perfect setting for both casual hangouts and engaging conversations.
With high-quality Wi-Fi and excellent food deals during the week, including a burger and beer combo, El Banco Rojo provides a great value proposition. Its central location also makes it an ideal stop during weekend market visits in San Telmo.
3) La Puerta Roja
Location: Chacabuco 733.
La Puerta Roja, also known as The Red Door, is a vibrant bar in San Telmo that becomes a buzzing hub of activity from noon till the early hours of the morning. It’s a place where both locals and foreigners converge to savor great drinks, delectable food, and cherish memorable moments.
With an ambiance that welcomes anyone looking to have a good time, whether you’re revisiting or planning your first trip, La Puerta Roja promises an experience that feels both intimate and exhilarating.
The culinary offerings at La Puerta Roja are as notable as its drinks, with patrons frequently praising the super nachos—a dish described as a perfect blend of crunchy nachos, melted cheese, hand-cut meat, and creamy sauce that creates a symphony of flavors and textures.
Additionally, the menu features a variety of generously portioned dishes such as pizzas, chicken wings, and fries, all ordered via a convenient QR code system for quick service. The rapid and attentive service further enhances the dining experience, making it a top choice for anyone seeking a lively dining scene in San Telmo.
4) El Federal Bar
Location: Carlos Calvo 599.
El Federal Bar, situated at the historic corner of Perú and Carlos Calvo in San Telmo, is housed in a building that dates back to the 19th century and has served various purposes through the decades. Today, it stands as a notable café-bar adorned with traditional furniture and an array of historical artifacts that evoke a nostalgic Buenos Aires vibe.
The decor includes old advertisements, photographs from the 1920s and 1930s, vintage tricycles, and colored glass siphons, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s complemented by the exceptional service of its staff.
El Federal offers a menu that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Argentina, featuring house specialties like picadas, tortillas, special sandwiches, homemade turkey ravioli, and strudel. The bar’s low counter in the main salon allows for comfortable dining, and the food is consistently praised for its quality and authenticity.
Guests appreciate the attentive and organized service, with staff who are not only friendly but also adept at recommending dishes based on customer preferences. Whether you’re there for a cold beer on a hot day, a casual meal, or to soak in the historic ambiance, El Federal provides a timeless slice of Argentine culture.
5) Bar La Esquinita
Location: Av. Independencia 897.
Bar La Esquinita captures the essence of San Telmo with its atmospheric charm and background tango music, making it a beloved local haunt. This bar is decked out with Argentine memorabilia and vintage advertisements, creating a nostalgic environment that enhances its appeal.
The café is perfect for starting your day with a variety of Argentine sweets and exquisite coffee, or for enjoying a leisurely lunch with options ranging from sandwiches and empanadas to appetizers and delightful desserts. It’s not just a place to eat and drink; it’s a cozy retreat that embodies the spirit of a traditional Buenos Aires café.
Patrons of Bar La Esquinita rave about the quality of its tostados, claiming they serve the best in Buenos Aires, particularly recommending the ham and cheese tostado on Arabic bread paired with a creamy café con leche.
The ambiance is consistently praised for transporting visitors back in time with its nostalgic décor and classic tangos playing softly in the background.
It’s a place that invites you to linger, whether you’re gazing out the window or engaging in conversation with a local sharing stories. The blend of excellent food, superb service, and a timeless atmosphere makes La Esquinita a must-visit spot in San Telmo.
6) Bar Británico
Location: Av. Brasil 399.
Bar Británico stands as a historic emblem in San Telmo, right by Parque Lezama, originally opened in 1928 and once known as La Cosechera. Renamed after becoming the favored gathering spot for English World War I veterans, this bar exudes a timeless charm, marked by decades of cultural heritage.
Despite fears of closure in recent years, the community’s effort to keep it open speaks volumes about its significance. The bar, with its old-world charm and professional, friendly staff, offers a warm welcome at any time of day, whether for breakfast, lunch, or a late snack.
The interior of Bar Británico carries a sense of enduring nostalgia that complements the historic neighborhood it inhabits. Although it might sound like an English pub from its name, it is thoroughly Argentine at heart, with a menu featuring delicious, albeit limited options such as milanesa sandwiches, lomo, and assorted cold cuts, all praised for their quality and generous portions.
The café also offers tempting promotions for afternoon snacks and serves exquisite coffee, making it a classic San Telmo bar that one must undoubtedly visit. The atmosphere is especially warm and inviting, ideal for enjoying a meal or coffee while overlooking the scenic Parque Lezama.
7) Bierlife
Location: Humberto 1º 670.
Bierlife is a beloved beer garden in San Telmo, celebrated for its lively atmosphere and impressive selection of craft beers, boasting 66 taps. The motto “Eat and drink beer” perfectly encapsulates the ethos of Bierlife, where the food menu is cleverly designed to complement the vast beer selection.
The space is self-managed yet inviting, offering a variety of seating arrangements that cater to different preferences, whether patrons prefer a quiet spot, a place near the music, or a communal setting for group gatherings.
The venue shines especially during beer-related events like St. Patrick’s Day or other beer festivals, drawing large crowds eager to sample the diverse offerings. Regulars recommend purchasing several tokens in advance to avoid long lines.
The kitchen is praised for its delightful dishes, and the beer list includes a range of options suitable for every palate and budget. The ambiance of Bierlife, set in an old house, carries a warm neighborhood feel, making it a top choice for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy quality craft beer in a comfortable setting.
8) Cervecería Untertürkheim
Location: Humberto 1º 899.
Cervecería Untertürkheim has been a staple in the heart of San Telmo for 22 years, offering an authentic German bar experience with over 100 choices of industrial, craft, and imported beers.
The decor features wooden designs and signs that create a distinctly German atmosphere, making it a favorite weekend spot for beer enthusiasts. Patrons are treated to a menu filled with traditional German cuisine, adding to the cultural immersion.
Visitors often comment on the high quality of both the beer and the service, noting that the prices, while not the cheapest, are justified by the superior quality and the unique ambiance. The blonde wheat beer comes highly recommended by those who’ve tried it, along with other varieties that equally impress.
The attentive staff and the hearty portions of food, particularly the charcuterie boards, enhance the overall experience. Cervecería Untertürkheim is celebrated for providing a slice of Germany in Buenos Aires, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a different cultural experience paired with excellent beer.
9) Bar Chin Chin
Location: Estados Unidos 500.
Bar Chin Chin in San Telmo is a hotspot for lovers of urban culture, quality cuisine, and classic cocktails. Styled like a cozy pub, it offers an excellent selection of craft beers and ciders that cater to diverse tastes.
The menu, though concise, features innovative dishes that are a hit among patrons, especially noted for their unique flavors that promise a “party in the mouth.” The pricing is reasonable considering the quality and quantity provided, and the service manages to remain commendable even during busy weekends.
Patrons rave about the great ambiance of Bar Chin Chin, enhanced by good music (though it can be a bit loud at times), and the swift, skilled bartenders who keep the drinks flowing. The food, particularly the pork ribs and a variety of meatless options, receives high praise for its deliciousness and diversity.
Overall, visitors appreciate the balance of excellent food, refreshing beverages, and friendly service, making Bar Chin Chin a highly recommended destination for a casual yet memorable dining and drinking experience in San Telmo.
10) Zakrev
Location: México 345.
Zakrev is more than just a bar; it’s a venue in San Telmo that invites patrons to experience something truly unique, combining artisanal cocktails with American-style burgers for a perfect flavor fusion.
This space is designed to cater to all types of social gatherings, from casual meetups to birthday celebrations and end-of-year parties, ensuring each event is memorable with meticulous attention to detail and outstanding service. The ambiance is praised for being pleasant and comfortable, with an appropriate music volume that enhances the dining experience without overwhelming it.
After midnight, Zakrev transforms, revealing a dance floor in the basement that makes it an ideal venue for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a night out with friends and family. Customers are particularly fond of the venue’s promotions and the well-prepared Argentine-style Fernet.
Vegan and vegetarian options are available, adding to its appeal. The cleanliness of the facilities, free games, and attentive staff contribute to an excellent overall experience. Guests leave Zakrev planning their next visit, drawn back by the delicious food, well-crafted drinks, and exceptional service that make it one of San Telmo’s most enjoyable nightlife spots.
(Featured Image Source: Nicolas Solop/flickr.com)
