Ever wondered where to find the best eats in Retiro, Buenos Aires? Whether you’re craving expertly aged steaks, authentic Italian pastas, or innovative local cuisine, Retiro’s dining scene has it all.
For digital nomads, travelers, and expats alike, navigating through the culinary diversity of Buenos Aires can be a delightful challenge.
ExpatPathways invites you to explore our expertly curated list of the top 10 must-visit restaurants in Retiro, where each meal turns into a flavorful journey and each dish tells a story of tradition and innovation.
The Best Restaurants in Retiro (Buenos Aires)
1. St. Regis Restaurant
Location: Av. Leandro N. Alem 1193.
Located on the second floor of the luxurious Park Tower, a part of the Marriott group, St. Regis Restaurant offers an international dining experience with a panoramic view of Avenida Alem through its radiant glass alcove.
Patrons can enjoy an exquisite array of international dishes, including finely sliced cheeses, fresh salmon, and world-renowned Argentine steaks. The restaurant is celebrated for its excellent service, with guests frequently complimenting the attentive staff and the complimentary sparkling wine that enhances the dining experience.
The menu, though concise, offers a variety of choices complemented by an extensive wine cellar and the convenience of covered parking, making it an ideal spot for a high-quality meal followed by drinks at the hotel’s bars.
2. Piegari Ristorante
Location: Posadas 1042.
For over 25 years, Piegari Ristorante has stood as a hallmark of Italian cuisine in Buenos Aires, renowned for its expertly crafted risottos, handmade ravioli, diverse pasta dishes, seafood, and pizzas. Located in the Recova de Posadas, this gastronomic icon specializes in matured grilled meats and is consistently chosen for both the quality of its dishes and its exceptional service.
Guests rave about the authentic Italian experience, noting the meticulous attention to detail such as the individually served portions of shared dishes and the distinctive flavors like the anchovies in the Caesar salad dressing.
The restaurant’s ambiance, combined with the highly personalized service, ensures that each visit is memorable, prompting many patrons to eagerly plan their return.
3. Elena
Location: Posadas 1086/88.
Elena, a prestigious restaurant located within a hotel, has consistently ranked among the top 50 best in Latin America for a decade, making it the only hotel restaurant on the list.
The ambiance draws inspiration from the historic homes of San Telmo, creating an elegant backdrop for its three culinary pillars: aged meats, brasserie-style dishes, and charcuterie. The wine list is a treasure trove featuring selections from across Argentina.
Patrons commend the restaurant for its exceptional service, including a noteworthy recommendation of pairing the volcano mousse with vanilla ice cream for a divine dessert experience.
Memorable visits are often punctuated by the superb offerings of special event menus and the attentive service from staff like Vanessa, who enhances the dining experience with her bright personality and proactive service.
4. Santos Manjares
Location: Paraguay 938.
Santos Manjares has established itself as a favorite among locals for its superb grilled meats, delivered straight to your home. Known for its classic porteño vibe, this restaurant is celebrated for its excellent value-for-money and quality.
Customers rave about the perfect doneness of the steak and the delectable flan. The Rib Eye comes highly recommended for its thick cut that showcases the meat’s quality and flavor, while the entrail offers a delicious but tougher eating experience.
The empanadas also receive high praise for their juicy, tender beef encased in fried dough. Despite occasional waits, patrons affirm that the dining experience at Santos Manjares is well worth the delay, cementing its status as a top steak destination in Buenos Aires.
5. Broccolino
Location: Esmeralda 776.
Broccolino, nestled on Esmeralda Street, is renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine, specializing in seafood, pasta, chicken, salmon, and desserts. With its origins tracing back to 1985, this culinary landmark has been run by four generations of the Trío family, maintaining its rich Italian heritage.
Patrons rave about the exceptional quality of the dishes, from the perfectly cooked meats and flavorful pastas to the exquisite sauces and wine selection. The ambiance combines a traditional feel with attentive service, making Broccolino a must-visit for both its historical value and its delectable dining offerings.
Reviewers particularly highlight the risotto, often described as the best they’ve ever had, and praise the overall experience as one of the best meals in Buenos Aires.
6. Norte
Location: Talcahuano 953.
Norte, a quintessential local eatery far from the tourist paths, is celebrated for its unpretentious charm and home-style Argentine cuisine. This modest establishment is known for its extensive menu featuring hearty, homemade dishes at affordable prices.
Despite its simple decor and basic table settings, Norte captures the essence of a neighborhood cantina with its warm service and copious portions. Favorites among patrons include stews, ‘matambre a la pizza,’ and the traditional ‘pumpkins in syrup’ for dessert.
The restaurant’s bustling atmosphere is a testament to its popularity among locals, offering a genuine slice of porteño life. Guests are advised to be patient due to the small space and high demand, but the wait is worthwhile for the generous dishes and the authentic dining experience.
7. Buenos Aires Grill
Location: Av. Sta. Fe 1876.
Buenos Aires Grill combines traditional methods with a modern touch, offering some of the best wood-fired meats in the heart of the city. Visitors consistently praise the quality of dishes such as the tender chorizo steak accompanied by crispy fries and a delectable flan with dulce de leche to finish.
The ribs are noted for their generous portions and authentic BBQ flavor, cooked perfectly to order with fresh, well-prepared vegetables. Guests appreciate the attentive service, highlighting waitstaff who are not only friendly but also proactive in making dining recommendations.
This grill stands out for its fast service and the quality of its offerings, providing an experience akin to having a barbecue at home.
8. La Rambla
Location: Posadas 1602.
La Rambla is celebrated for serving the best lomito (steak sandwich) in Buenos Aires, a reputation that brings locals and tourists alike to its doors.
The restaurant offers a cozy ambiance with quality and tradition at its core, ensuring a unique culinary experience. Patrons rave about the variety of steak sandwiches, described as some of the best in the world, with particular praise for their tenderness and flavor.
Beyond steak sandwiches, La Rambla also impresses with its milanesa and Spanish tortilla, providing good value and excellent service.
It’s a popular choice for those seeking a quick, delicious lunch in a welcoming setting, with a particularly commendable coffee and a vibrant atmosphere.
9. Alma Buenos Aires
Location: Posadas 1232.
Alma Buenos Aires stands out as a gem within the Sofitel Recoleta, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and design, characterized by spiraling crystal fixtures and a dynamic circular layout.
The restaurant specializes in grilled meats and fresh seasonal vegetables that embody the essence of Argentine flavors, prepared with meticulous care. Patrons commend the quality of dishes like the perfectly cooked octopus and exquisite desserts.
The restaurant’s sophisticated ambiance, enhanced by a central chandelier and luxurious seating, offers a special dining experience. Although some dishes like the slow-cooked lamb might need additional seasoning or sauce, the overall culinary quality, particularly for vegan and gluten-free options, receives high praise.
The limited but excellent selection of wines from Mendoza and the attentive service make Alma Buenos Aires a top recommendation for both locals and tourists.
10. 1810 Cocina Regional Centro
Location: Marcelo Torcuato de Alvear 868.
1810 Cocina Regional Centro offers a cozy and traditional dining experience, showcasing the rich flavors of Northern Argentina. Known for its delicious regional dishes, the restaurant is a go-to for those seeking homemade Argentine cuisine.
The empanadas, especially the Jamón del Norte and Humita, are memorable, and the flan with dulce de leche is exceptional. Customers rave about the locro, a highlight of their menu, praised as unmatched compared to other establishments.
The ambiance is welcoming, with efficient service that caters well to non-Spanish speakers, adding to the appeal for international visitors.
This modest but comfortable spot is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Argentine flavors at reasonable prices, with standout dishes that are both simple and deeply satisfying.
(Featured Image Source: Pablo Stösst/flickr.com)
