Are you an expat, traveler, or digital nomad thirsting for a taste of Buenos Aires’s rich cultural tapestry through its most iconic traditional bars?
ExpatPathways presents “The 10 Best Traditional Bars in Buenos Aires,” a curated guide that dives into the heart and soul of the city’s legendary drinking establishments. From historic cafes where poets and politicians once debated to cozy corners where locals and visitors alike have shared stories over a pint for decades, our list promises to lead you on an unforgettable journey.
Discover the places where Buenos Aires’s vibrant history, artistic legacy, and the warmth of its people blend seamlessly with delightful culinary offerings, ensuring your experiences are as authentic and enriching as the city itself.
Join us at ExpatPathways, and let’s raise a glass to the timeless charm and spirited atmosphere of Buenos Aires’s best traditional bars!
The Best Traditional Bars in Buenos Aires
1. Café Tortoni
Location: Av. de Mayo 825, Monserrat.
Café Tortoni, the oldest coffee shop in the city, founded in 1858, has been a favored haunt of celebrated personalities like Jorge Luis Borges, Federico García Lorca, and Carlos Gardel, among others.
Its stunning interior, adorned with marble tables, wood paneling, and an array of art, coupled with its legacy of hosting literary giants and performing artists, encapsulates the soul of Buenos Aires.
Beyond its historical allure, Café Tortoni offers a delightful culinary experience with its pastries, coffee, and live tango and jazz performances in its basement, making it a must-visit for those wishing to soak in the city’s bohemian atmosphere.
2. Los 36 Billares
Location: Av. de Mayo 1271, Centro.
On the other hand, Los 36 Billares, birthed in 1894 and nestled on the iconic Avenida de Mayo, serves as a testament to Buenos Aires’s vibrant intellectual and gaming traditions.
Renowned as a meeting spot for thinkers and a haven for billiards enthusiasts, the establishment marries the charm of traditional gaming with gastronomic delights, including its famed stone-baked pizza and classic desserts.
Its meticulous restoration in 2013 preserved its historical essence, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and enjoy a game of billiards, pool, or cards in an environment that echoes the past.
Los 36 Billares, with its commitment to maintaining impeccable standards and fostering a fun, traditional ambiance, remains an indispensable stop for those exploring Buenos Aires’s storied locales, proving that some places truly are timeless.
3. Varela Varelita
Location: Av. Raúl Scalabrini Ortiz 2102, Palermo.
Varela Varelita, nestled in Palermo, boasts a rich history of literary and political patronage, having been the choice haunt of figures like Héctor Libertella and “Chacho” Álvarez.
The bar’s whimsical tradition of renaming whisky “Pepe Bianco” in honor of a literary inside joke, along with its framed memorabilia and dedicated customer service, contribute to its charm and allure.
The dedication to preserving its unique cultural legacy, combined with its offering of classic Argentine dishes and a welcoming atmosphere, makes Varela Varelita a timeless destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s intellectual and culinary heritage.
4. Las Violetas
Location: Av. Rivadavia 3899, Almagro.
On the other hand, Las Violetas stands as a testament to the grandeur of Buenos Aires’s café culture, voted the city’s most beloved Café Notable by its residents.
Since its inauguration in 1884, Las Violetas has enchanted visitors with its opulent decor, featuring Italian marble, Parisian furniture, and exquisite stained glass windows.
The café’s commitment to quality is evident in its expansive menu, highlighted by its famous afternoon teas that draw crowds eager to indulge in its lavish spread.
The café’s ability to maintain its elegance and charm through the decades, alongside its exceptional service and mouth-watering offerings, solidifies its status as a must-visit for anyone seeking to experience the pinnacle of Buenos Aires’s historic café scene.
5. Bar El Federal
Location: Carlos Calvo 599, San Telmo.
Bar El Federal, located in the heart of San Telmo, carries the legacy of the 19th century, serving as a meeting point for influential figures and ordinary citizens alike.
Its traditional furnishings set against a backdrop of vintage advertisements, photographs, and an array of historical memorabilia create a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s complemented by a diverse menu of classic Argentine dishes.
The bar’s homage to notable personalities and its commitment to maintaining a connection to Buenos Aires’s artistic and intellectual heritage, make it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic porteño experience.
6. Bar Los Galgos
Location: Av. Callao 501, Centro.
Conversely, Bar Los Galgos brings to life the essence of Buenos Aires’s downtown, blending the classic café culture with a sense of community and historical continuity.
Since its establishment in 1930, Los Galgos has been a bastion of the city’s café scene, attracting a varied clientele that includes renowned artists, politicians, and literary figures.
The bar’s preservation of its original aesthetic, combined with a menu that offers traditional sandwiches, pastries, and local beverages, ensures a genuinely porteño dining experience. The presence of porcelain greyhounds, an elegant bronze swan-shaped tap, and surrealistic dog portraits add to the bar’s unique character.
7. Café Margot
Location: Av. Boedo 857, Boedo.
Café Margot, standing proudly in the historic neighborhood of Boedo, serves as a testament to the area’s rich literary and political history, having once been frequented by figures like Juan Domingo Perón and notable writers such as Gustavo Riccio and Raúl González Tuñón.
Its warm interior, adorned with marble countertops and wooden furniture, complements the eclectic collection of memorabilia that lines its walls, creating an atmosphere that is both cozy and historically significant.
Specializing in classic Argentine fare such as pickled turkey sandwiches and homemade pastas, Café Margot offers a culinary experience that is as authentic as its ambiance, further solidified by its recognition as a historical landmark and its participation in cultural initiatives like “Buenos Aires lee.”
8. El Banderín
Location: Guardia Vieja 3601, Almagro.
El Banderín, nestled in the heart of Almagro, captivates visitors with its extraordinary collection of over 500 football club flags, reflecting the universal love for the sport and the personal passion of its founder, Don Mario.
Originally serving the community as a local grocery store, El Banderín transitioned into a beloved café, retaining its nostalgic charm and expanding its homage to include teams from around the globe.
Beyond its football memorabilia, El Banderín is known for its generous portions, affordable prices, and the genuine warmth of its staff, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Whether indulging in a hearty meal, sipping on a refreshing limonada, or simply soaking in the historical ambiance, guests at El Banderín are treated to a slice of Buenos Aires life that celebrates the city’s enduring spirit and communal bonds.
9. La Poesía
Location: Chile 502, San Telmo.
La Poesía, born from the creative vision of poet Rubén Derlis in 1982, quickly became a sanctuary for the Generation of the ’60s, hosting influential figures such as Juan Gelman and Francisco Paco Urondo.
This café bar, nestled in the historic district of San Telmo, fostered a vibrant atmosphere for poets, writers, and intellectuals, becoming synonymous with the city’s bohemian spirit.
Even after closing and later reopening in 2008, La Poesía has maintained its charm and commitment to celebrating Argentine culture, offering a tranquil space for both work and private meetings amidst décor that harks back to Buenos Aires’s artistic golden age.
10. Bar Británico
Location: Avenida Brasil 399, San Telmo.
Conversely, Bar Británico, standing since 1928 at the edge of Parque Lezama, tells a different story — one of camaraderie and nostalgia among English war veterans, earning its place as a beloved local haunt.
Despite threats of closure, community efforts have preserved this iconic bar, allowing it to continue serving patrons amidst an ambiance where time seems to stand still.
Known for its quiet afternoons, delicious traditional dishes, and exemplary service, Bar Británico offers a glimpse into the city’s past while providing a cozy corner for contemporary visitors to create new memories.
(Featured Image Source: welchm8/flickr.com)
