Are you a digital nomad, traveler, or expat exploring the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires and craving an authentic coffee experience? Look no further!
ExpatPathways brings you the ultimate guide to the best downtown notable coffee shops in Buenos Aires. These historical gems offer not just a cup of coffee but a sip of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Whether you’re looking to fuel a day of adventures or find a cozy corner to work from, our curated list captures the essence of Porteño café culture at its finest.
Join us as we unveil where tradition meets the taste of true Argentine coffee!
The Best Downtown Notable Coffee Shops in Buenos Aires
1. Café Tortoni
Location: Av. de Mayo 825, San Nicolas.
Founded in 1858, Café Tortoni is not only the oldest coffee shop in Buenos Aires but also a historical monument nestled in the Monserrat neighborhood. Originally opened on the northwest corner of Esmeralda and Rivadavia, it moved in the mid-1880s to its current grand location on Avenida de Mayo, featuring a façade designed by architect Alejandro Christophersen.
Named after the famous Tortoni in Paris, this café has hosted numerous literary and artistic icons like Jorge Luis Borges, Federico García Lorca, and Carlos Gardel—the latter having a table perpetually reserved away from his admirers’ eyes.
Today, beneath its vintage marble tables and opulent decor, Café Tortoni offers jazz and tango shows, while neighboring the National Tango Academy and the World Tango Museum.
Visitors are consistently impressed by its elegant, old-world charm, excellent service, and delightful offerings like hot chocolate with churros, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the quintessence of Buenos Aires’ café culture.
2. Cafe Paulin
Location: Sarmiento 635, San Nicolas.
Since 1988, Cafe Paulin has proudly claimed the title of “the best sandwiches in Buenos Aires.” Situated in the bustling Microcentro area, it serves as a popular lunch spot for nearby office workers, maintaining its original café ambiance with wooden walls and tables.
This location was famously featured as a backdrop in the Oscar-nominated film “Argentina, 1985.” Regulars appreciate its nostalgic, neighborhood vibe, especially during the quieter evening hours around 7 PM.
The menu boasts a selection of sandwiches, with the Napolitano and Patagonian styles being particularly noteworthy; the Napolitano, in particular, receives high praise for its generous size and distinctive flavor.
Although service can occasionally be slow, the overall experience is well-regarded, making Cafe Paulin a beloved destination for those seeking a taste of local flavor and history.
3. Le Caravelle
Location: Lavalle 726, San Nicolas.
Opened in 1962 on Lavalle Street, Buenos Aires’ first pedestrian street and a historical cinema hub, Le Caravelle has maintained its original charm and allure. The café today offers a timeless sense of tranquility and familiarity.
The décor features four clocks on the right wall showing the time in Buenos Aires, Rome, Madrid, and Athens, alongside framed photos of iconic Roman landmarks that reflect the café’s Italian heritage.
With two distinct bars—one for coffee and pastries where customers typically stand, and another for sandwiches and coffee sales—Le Caravelle merges traditional service with modern digital presence, making it popular among both old patrons and new visitors.
Renowned for offering the city’s best cappuccino, which is exquisitely smooth yet flavorful, the café also delights with its baked goods, enhancing the coffee experience at very accessible prices. This spot is a true testament to Buenos Aires’ vibrant café culture, cherished by artists, writers, and coffee aficionados alike.
4. Confitería Ideal
Location: Suipacha 384, San Nicolas.
Reopened in November 2022 after extensive restorations, Confitería Ideal is a stunning architectural gem from the early 20th century, often referred to as one of the “Three Musketeers” of Buenos Aires gastronomy.
This majestic venue, a symbol of the Belle Époque, showcases a centenary dome composed of 60 stained glass panels and intricate moldings. The meticulous restoration included polishing original chandeliers and refurbishing the historic elevators, preserving its original grandeur.
Confitería Ideal offers a unique culinary experience with its in-house bakery, kitchen, patisserie, and chocolate shop, ensuring that everything served is freshly made.
The setting provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying a rich breakfast or afternoon tea, complete with a variety of drinks and generous desserts. An iconic location in downtown Buenos Aires, it’s a favorite among locals and a must-visit for tourists seeking a piece of the city’s historical elegance combined with exceptional dining.
5. La Puerto Rico
Location: Adolfo Alsina 416, Plaza de Mayo.
La Puerto Rico, founded in 1887 by Gumersindo Cabedo, an immigrant with a penchant for coffee after years in Puerto Rico, stands out as one of the city’s notable bars, now located in the heart of Buenos Aires near Plaza de Mayo.
After moving to its current location in 1925, the café was remodeled in the 1930s, adopting an Art Deco style evident in its façade and the typography of its marquee.
Throughout its history, La Puerto Rico has been a gathering place for significant Argentine cultural figures, including writers Jorge Luis Borges and Adolfo Bioy Casares, and even the future Pope Francis.
Today, the café offers a range of exquisite bakery items and refreshments like orange and raspberry tart alongside traditional coffee served in small cups, all set in a classic San Telmo decor that retains its historic charm.
The service is renowned for its quality, and the lemonade with mint and ginger comes highly recommended, making La Puerto Rico a delightful spot for both its historical ambiance and its culinary offerings.
6. La Poesía
Location: Chile 502, San Telmo.
La Poesía, a literary café and one of the city’s “Bares Notables,” opened its doors in 1982 at the corner of Chile and Bolívar streets by poet Rubén Derlis. Initially a hub for the Generation of ’60 poets like Juan Gelman and Olga Orozco, it quickly became a beloved gathering place for a new generation of poets during the nascent democracy era.
The café was a cornerstone for artistic and intellectual activities in San Telmo, hosting events from the “Poesía Lunfarda” series to various literary and jazz meetings. After a period of closure, La Poesía reopened in 2008, preserving its legacy and ambiance.
Today, it is adorned with 120 portraits of Argentine literary masters, offering a tranquil setting ideal for working or private meetings.
Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a classic porteño touch, La Poesía remains a vibrant tribute to Argentina’s rich cultural and literary heritage, providing a cozy, nostalgic environment complemented by good service and affordable prices.
7. Thibon Café Tes
Location: Montevideo 723, Centro.
Established in 1938 by the Thibon family from Ardêche, France, Thibon Café Tes initially served as a retail location for freshly roasted and ground coffee at Montevideo 723, CABA.
Recognized for its unique aromas and flavors, the café was quickly embraced by its patrons and later expanded to include gourmet products, wines, champagne, and select liquors. By 2000, at the request of its customers, tables were added to enjoy coffee and drinks in a pleasant and elegant setting.
Currently managed by the renowned bar “El Gato Negro,” Thibon Café Tes continues to serve its signature coffees, teas, and spices, contributing to its status as an icon of Buenos Aires’ culture.
The café itself is a piece of the city’s historical heritage, featuring antique coffee roasters, checkerboard floors, and marble from a bygone era. With a daily changing lunch menu, affordable prices, and a magical atmosphere, it’s an excellent spot for business meetings or simply enjoying a good cup of coffee.
8. Claridge Bar
Location: Tucumán 535, Retiro.
Opened in 1946 as part of the traditional five-star Claridge Hotel, the Claridge Bar epitomizes the grandeur of English club-style elegance with its wood-paneled walls, leather chairs and sofas, and a distinctive green and red diamond-patterned carpet.
This bar is celebrated for the expertise of its bartenders and offers a sophisticated setting reminiscent of an English gentlemen’s club. With an extensive collection of rare champagnes and spirits curated by David Collins Studio, guests can enjoy classic drinks or bespoke cocktails, including unique takes on the Dry Martini, Negroni, and Pisco Sour.
The ambiance of Claridge Bar is both relaxed and upscale, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and luxury, making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors seeking a high-quality drink in a prestigious setting.
9. Celta Bar
Location: Sarmiento 1701, Centro.
Celta Bar brings the nostalgic beats of tango, the swing of jazz, and the rhythm of rock to the San Nicolás neighborhood. Declared a Notable Bar by the Ministry of Culture of the City of Buenos Aires and a Site of Cultural Interest by the Porteña Legislature, Celta Bar has a rich history dating back to its transformation into a confitería-bar in 1950.
Since 1998, its basement has served as a “Café Concert” venue, featuring live performances by artists like Javier Malosetti and Luis Salinas. The tradition continues with Celta Concert, offering prominent live concerts every weekend.
The bar’s identity is showcased through its eclectic décor, including portraits of notable musicians, vintage soap and herb packages, and old advertising signs.
Patrons enjoy one of the best draft ciders in Buenos Aires, diverse food offerings, and the lively atmosphere complemented by excellent service. Whether for the food, drinks, or the vibrant cultural experience, Celta Bar stands out as a quintessential part of Buenos Aires’ café scene.
10. La Giralda
Location: Av. Corrientes 1453, Centro.
La Giralda, a staple among Buenos Aires’ notable cafés, specializes in thick, rich hot chocolate served with churros—a local favorite since its opening in 1951. Located on Avenida Corrientes 1453, La Giralda reopened in 2021 under new management, yet retains its name inspired by the famous bell tower in Sevilla, Spain.
The café preserves its traditional charm with a sober façade, a double-door entrance, and interior decorations that reflect its Sevillian namesake. The classic wooden counter, carved mirrors, and shelves filled with assorted bottles maintain the timeless style of this beloved spot.
Recently, La Giralda expanded its menu to include lunch and dinner, enhancing its offerings while preserving the cultural and gastronomic heritage of Buenos Aires. With generous portions, reasonable prices, and a cozy ambiance, La Giralda provides a delightful dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in the city’s famous chocolates and churros.
(Featured Image Source: Adolfo Rozenfeld/flickr.com)
