Are you on a quest to discover the culinary soul of Buenos Aires, eager to explore its Italian gastronomy scene?
ExpatPathways presents “The 10 Best Pasta Restaurants in Buenos Aires,” a curated guide that promises to lead you through the bustling streets of this vibrant city to uncover hidden gems and celebrated locales where pasta is not just a dish, but a masterpiece.
Whether you’re a digital nomad seeking comfort food with a twist, a traveler on the hunt for authentic Italian cuisine, or an expat longing for a taste of home, our selection spans the innovative to the traditional, each with its own story of flavors waiting to be explored.
Join us on this delicious journey, and let’s unravel the pasta wonders of Buenos Aires together!
The Best Pasta Restaurants in Buenos Aires
1. Il Quotidiano
Location: Arenales 3360, Alto Palermo Shopping, Palermo.
Il Quotidiano has become a beacon for pasta lovers, thanks to its modern yet casual setting where guests can enjoy handmade pasta, traditional piadinas, quiches, artisanal ice cream, and a selection of homemade bread and pastries.
The restaurant prides itself on its all-day service, which eschews sophistication for a relaxed atmosphere, allowing the quality and artisan nature of its offerings to shine.
Popular dishes among patrons include gnocchi with Bolognese sauce and noodles with butter and ricotta, all served by attentive staff that ensures a top-notch dining experience from start to finish.
2. D’oro Italian Bar
Location: Perú 159, Monserrat.
D’oro Italian Bar, with its roots going back to 1999 and founded by Claudio and Norberto D’oro who brought their Italian culinary expertise to Buenos Aires, offers an array of pasta dishes that stand out for their gastronomic style and presentation quality.
The restaurant’s extensive wine and cocktail menu perfectly complements its dishes, including gluten-free options that cater to all diners without compromising on taste or complexity.
Patrons consistently rave about the exceptional service and the diverse menu, with standout dishes like pasta with salmon, black squid ink, and shrimp.
The attention to detail, from the complimentary bread basket to the sumptuous chocolate volcano dessert with pistachio sauce, underscores D’oro’s commitment to delivering an exemplary Italian dining experience.
3. Il Gran Caruso
Location: El Salvador 5805, Palermo.
For over 37 years, Il Gran Caruso has remained a dynamic presence in the Italian gastronomic landscape of Buenos Aires, migrating from its original Almagro location to its current spot in Palermo Hollywood.
It’s celebrated for a welcoming atmosphere that extends even to the youngest guests, making it a family favorite. The restaurant’s commitment to homemade pasta and traditional dishes, complemented by artisanal desserts and coffee, ensures an authentic Italian dining experience.
The accolades from diners highlight the gnocchi with Bolognese sauce and the noodles with butter and ricotta, marking Il Gran Caruso as a culinary gem.
4. Ristorante Maria Fedele
Location: Adolfo Alsina 1465, Monserrat.
Ristorante Maria Fedele offers a hidden sanctuary in the Congreso area, reminiscent of dining in an Italian family home. This restaurant, nestled within a 19th-century building, has no set menu, surprising guests with a series of dishes that represent the culinary heritage of Southern Italy.
From a dozen antipastos to a main course of pasta followed by meat and a trio of desserts, the experience is both mysterious and delightful.
Patrons rave about the intimate ambiance, attentive service, and the rustic, authentic flavors that define Maria Fedele’s offering. The addition of live accordion music further enriches the dining experience, transporting guests straight to Italy with every note.
5. Salgado Alimentos
Location: Juan Ramírez de Velasco 401, Villa Crespo.
Salgado Alimentos, nestled in Villa Crespo, is akin to stumbling upon a well-kept secret, despite its longstanding presence.
Known for its retro aesthetic that blends seamlessly with a neighborhood vibe, this restaurant prides itself on its stuffed pastas, attracting patrons with its quality and generous portions.
From exquisite ravioli to perfectly seasoned lasagna and tender veal cannelloni, the diverse menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit for pasta fans.
6. La Alacena Pastificio & Salumeria
Location: José A. Cabrera 4002, Palermo.
La Alacena Pastificio & Salumeria in Palermo introduces a corner of Italy with its dedication to artisan pasta production, bakery, and deli products, under the guidance of renowned Argentine chef Julieta Oriolo.
Since its inception in 2022, La Alacena has charmed guests with its brunch offerings and a variety of pasta dishes that exude authenticity and culinary excellence.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident in dishes like Buccatini alla Arrabiatta and Fusilli al Bronzo, complemented by the best Carbonara in Buenos Aires, according to delighted patrons.
La Alacena’s intimate setting, combined with its artisanal approach, invites diners to savor a slice of Italy amidst the urban backdrop of Buenos Aires, ensuring a memorable dining experience that echoes the essence of Italian cuisine.
7. Broccolino
Location: Esmeralda 776, San Nicolás (Microcentro).
Broccolino, nestled within the bustling Microcentro area, close to the famous Avenida Córdoba and Avenida 9 de Julio, is celebrated for its dry pasta dishes and a history marked by the presence of celebrities.
Its evolution from a pizzeria to a family-owned restaurant boasting a variety of Italian dishes speaks to its adaptability and commitment to quality.
The rave reviews about its food, especially the exquisite pastas and impeccable service, underscore its reputation as a top destination for Italian cuisine in Buenos Aires.
8. Pierino
Location: Lavalle 3499, Almagro.
Pierino claims the title of the last Italian cantina in Buenos Aires, a distinction confirmed by its designation as a Site of Historical Interest.
This Almagro neighborhood gem has been serving up authentic Italian fare since 1909, with its menu highlights including fusilli al fierrito and veal “niños envueltos” Piedmontese style.
The ambiance, reminiscent of a traditional Italian family gathering, complements the culinary delights that have drawn famous artists like Piazzolla to its tables.
The abundant dishes, along with live Italian music performances, enrich the dining experience, making Pierino a cherished spot for those seeking authentic Italian pasta dishes.
9. Cucina Paradiso
Location: Armenia 1610, Palermo.
Cucina Paradiso, with locations in Belgrano and Palermo Hollywood, is the brainchild of Milan-born chef Donato de Santis. The restaurant is celebrated for its traditional lasagna and parmigiana, as well as a wide selection of pasta dishes featuring various fillings and sauces.
Patrons rave about the exceptional service, innovative pasta dishes, and the warm, inviting ambiance that feels like a Sunday at a Milanese family home.
From the fresh focaccia served as an appetizer to the acclaimed risotto, described by many as the best they’ve ever had, Cucina Paradiso delivers a rich, simple, and harmonious dive into Italian cuisine.
10. Spiagge di Napoli
Location: Av. Independencia 3527, Boedo.
Spiagge di Napoli offers a dive into the past, positioned as a historical icon in the Boedo neighborhood. Esteemed for its pasta specialties, this traditional Italian cantina serves generous portions at competitive prices, creating a homey, familial dining experience reminiscent of an Italian grandmother’s kitchen.
The restaurant’s decoration, reflective of a classic cantina with closely set tables, contributes to an authentic atmosphere. The pasta dishes, particularly the sorrentinos capresse with mixed sauce, evoke the true flavors of Caprese, leaving patrons longing for more.
With live Italian music occasionally enhancing the dining experience, Spiagge di Napoli stands as a testament to Buenos Aires’ rich Italian culinary landscape, offering a nostalgic nod to the authentic Italian cantinas of yesteryears.
(Featured Image Source: Maurijn Pach/pexels.com)