Have you ever wondered where to find the heartiest regional dishes in Buenos Aires? ExpatPathways has you covered with our exclusive roundup of the 10 Best Regional Food Restaurants in Buenos Aires.
Perfect for expats craving a slice of Argentine tradition, digital nomads looking to spice up their culinary life, or travelers in pursuit of authentic local dining experiences, this guide ensures that you’ll dine exactly where the locals do.
Each restaurant on our list promises a unique blend of ambiance, history, and, most importantly, mouth-watering regional cuisine that will keep you coming back for more. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems of Buenos Aires’ food scene, one delicious bite at a time.
The Best Regional Food Restaurants in Buenos Aires
1. Molino Norteño
Location: Cnel. Apolinario Figueroa 101, Villa Crespo.
Nestled in the bohemian neighborhood of Villa Crespo, Molino Norteño brings the distinct flavors of Salta right into the bustling heart of Buenos Aires.
Opened in 2016 by Gustavo Tapia, who migrated from Molinos in 1995, this eatery specializes in authentic regional cuisine, particularly renowned for its knife-cut, cumin and paprika-seasoned Salta-style.
The restaurant doesn’t just pride itself on the authenticity of its dishes but also on its affordable prices, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
Patrons highly recommend trying the fried Salta-style empanadas and the Jujuy-style lomito as standout dishes. The cozy setting, combined with the owner’s personal touch and commitment, ensures a delightful dining experience without breaking the bank.
2. El Imperfecto
Location: Gascón 1417, Palermo.
Positioned in the heart of Palermo on Gascón street, El Imperfecto offers a unique culinary experience that transports diners to the northern provinces of Argentina like Catamarca, Jujuy, and Salta.
Housed in an old mansion, this restaurant cooks its diverse menu over a wood fire, enhancing the flavors of traditional dishes such as salteñas empanadas, provoletas, and wood oven-baked meats.
The ambiance reflects northern Argentine culture, complementing the gastronomic offerings that also include gluten-free and vegan options. The extensive drink menu features local wines, beers, and traditional Argentine cocktails, adding to the restaurant’s rustic charm.
Whether it’s the wood-fired chicken or the handcrafted desserts like the warm, crispy cookie topped with dulce de leche and ice cream, El Imperfecto promises an authentically Argentine dining experience.
3. 1810 Cocina Regional
Location: Julián Álvarez 1998, Palermo.
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Palermo, 1810 Cocina Regional has been a beacon of Argentine culinary tradition since the early 2000s, offering a heartfelt dining experience that transports its patrons to the northern regions of Argentina.
Known for its authentic local dishes such as Tucuman empanadas, locro, tamales, and humita en chala, the restaurant prides itself on its commitment to recreating traditional flavors and inviting diners to a nostalgic journey through Argentine gastronomy.
Customers rave about the tuna empanadas and vegan humita, highlighting their unique and flavorful preparation. The restaurant also offers excellent value with reasonably priced dishes that do not compromise on quality, alongside commendable service, making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of regional Argentine cuisine.
4. Rincón Norteño
Location: José A. Cabrera 3500, Palermo.
Rincón Norteño, also located in Palermo with several branches throughout the city, stands out for its dedication to northern Argentine flavors and culinary heritage.
This chain is celebrated for its wide variety of meticulously prepared empanadas, from ham and cheese to the distinctly regional humita, all noted for their generous fillings and authentic taste.
Regular patrons appreciate the consistency in the quality of the food, particularly praising the substantial size and richness of the empanadas compared to other establishments.
Rincón Norteño’s commitment to using fresh ingredients and expert cooking techniques ensures each visit is a delightful exploration of traditional Argentine flavors, making it a favored spot for both quick lunches and leisurely dining.
5. Bar Polo
Location: Av. Scalabrini Ortiz 702, Villa Crespo.
Located on Avenida Scalabrini Ortiz in the Villa Crespo neighborhood, Bar Polo offers a quintessential bodegón dining experience that captivates with its homely and abundant dishes.
Renowned for its no-frills, deliciously simple Argentine cuisine such as locro, stews, and soups, Bar Polo stands out for its fresh daily menus and exceptionally attentive service, led by Polo himself who ensures each customer feels valued.
Visitors often praise the restaurant for its generous portions and economical prices, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Whether you stumble upon it while exploring the neighborhood or make a planned visit, Bar Polo promises a warm welcome and a satisfying meal at any time of day, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic local dining experience.
6. El Sanjuanino
Location: Posadas 1515, Recoleta.
Nestled in the upscale Recoleta district, El Sanjuanino is a celebrated destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the flavors of regional Argentine cuisine.
Just moments away from Avenida Libertador and Avenida Callao, this restaurant charms with its rustic, bodegón-style ambiance complete with wooden fixtures and quaint decor.
El Sanjuanino is famed for its hearty, steamy dishes like guisos, tamales, and locros, served alongside a selection of Argentine classics such as empanadas and asado. The service here is notably friendly and efficient, adding to the cheerful atmosphere.
Regulars and newcomers alike recommend the pasta dishes and the milanesas, noting the meticulous presentation and the high quality of ingredients. For a truly Argentine culinary experience with a touch of nostalgia and excellent value, El Sanjuanino is a standout choice.
7. La Querencia
Location: Junín 1314, Recoleta.
Located in the prestigious Recoleta neighborhood, La Querencia offers a serene dining environment where guests can enjoy a diverse array of traditional Argentine dishes ranging from homemade empanadas to classic roasted meats and regional staples like locro and humita.
What sets La Querencia apart is its commitment to authentic Argentine cuisine, served in a relaxed setting perfect for enjoying a meal with friends.
Patrons often praise the restaurant for its varied menu that also includes non-regional options like pastas and grilled meats, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
The restaurant is celebrated for its exceptional service and reasonable prices, especially given its upscale location. Regulars recommend the lamb empanadas and potato pie as must-try dishes, highlighting the restaurant’s ability to deliver both quality and comfort in each meal.
8. La Aguada
Location: Billinghurst 1862, Recoleta.
Just steps from Avenida Santa Fe in Recoleta, La Aguada presents a charmingly quaint ambiance, adorned with antique Argentine utensils and appliances, creating a cozy backdrop for its culinary offerings.
This restaurant is renowned for serving some of the best empanadas in the country, alongside a variety of dishes like tartas, stews, and uniquely Argentine desserts.
Guests at La Aguada experience an intimate connection with Argentine culture, not only through its flavorful dishes but also through the poetic dedications and notes left by previous diners.
The menu is a testament to traditional Argentine cooking, with standout dishes such as bife a la criolla and matambre a la pizza receiving high praise for their delicious flavors and hearty portions.
The restaurant’s attentive service and the detailed explanations of the dishes add to the welcoming atmosphere, making it a top choice for both locals and tourists looking to savor authentic Argentine cuisine in Buenos Aires.
9. La Morada
Location: Av. Hipólito Yrigoyen 778, Monserrat.
Situated in the historical Monserrat neighborhood, close to both Plaza de Mayo and Avenida 9 de Julio, La Morada is a gem that transports its guests back in time with its eclectic collection of Argentine memorabilia.
This charming establishment is celebrated for its delicious, authentic Argentine dishes such as empanadas, lentil stew, and locro.
Visitors consistently praise the generous portions, reasonable prices, and the nostalgic ambiance created by vintage decor that adorns the walls.
Regular patrons recommend La Morada for its consistently excellent traditional meals, which are particularly comforting during the colder months. The place is small and tends to fill up quickly, so arriving early is advised to secure a spot in this quaint eatery that feels frozen in time.
10. El Horno del Norte
Location: Guatemala 5999, Palermo.
Located in the vibrant Palermo neighborhood, near the railway and Avenida Cabildo, El Horno del Norte offers a delightful array of regional Argentine foods, including locro, mondongo, empanadas, and humitas.
Known for its charcoal grill and elaborate dishes, the restaurant serves up traditional northern Argentine cuisine that captures the essence of the region’s culinary heritage.
Patrons enjoy the cozy atmosphere complemented by background rock music, which sets a relaxed, non-commercial vibe. El Horno del Norte is also appreciated for its affordability and quality, making it a great spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic flavors.
The restaurant’s focus on meticulous service and a welcoming atmosphere ensures a memorable dining experience for all who step through its doors.
(Featured Image Source: lucianabalegre/flickr.com)
