Best Restaurants in Buenos Aires
Orilla
Orilla is the newest property from world famous restaurateur Fernando Trocca. Located below the Hotel Urbanica in Buenos Aires’s Bajo Belgrano neighborhood, the concept is to offer a very approachable menu, with dishes that are familiar but prepared with the best ingredients and to the highest standards. The space is open and un-fussy, a study in simple wood surfaces, subtle colors, and satisfyingly smooth textures. Tables are arranged in a perimeter around the open kitchen, allowing every guest a glimpse into the energetic heart and soul of the restaurant. This allows the focus to remain always on the art of cooking, the food, and the company you keep. It’s pleasantly simple and elegant.
THE FOOD
The menu is largely seasonal and ingredients are sourced locally as much as is possible, so there is significant turnover in dishes between visits. Guests can order meals that are small, medium, or large, and sharing is encouraged. Expect a variety of classic Argentinian favorites, including a large selection of hearty meat dishes. The cocktail experience is one that is embraced wholeheartedly at Orilla. The cocktail list is substantial, with a mix of classics given an inventive twist and craft cocktail masterpieces that indulge in the true artistry of fine drink making. The wine list is features ample variety, with vintages chosen to best complement the menu.
LAST WORD
In a city known for exquisite dining options, Orilla stands out for its winning blend of friendly and welcoming atmosphere with an experience that keeps the focus on the food itself.
Proper
Proper is located in a converted car mechanic space in the city’s Palermo District, innovating an industrial chic vibe that’s intriguing and unique. That’s part of what makes this fab eatery a must for foodies and buzz-seekers alike. The kitchen is completely open and the dining room has unobstructed views of the action. A large communal table in the center is one of the best spots to enjoy a group meal in Buenos Aires but be aware that Proper does not take reservations – be lined up outside the door when it opens at 8pm or settle in for a wait.
THE FOOD
A selection of small plates balances savory, salty and sweet and most come from the kitchen’s large wood-fired oven: pork flank with pickles and radish, sea bass with chermoula and pancetta broth, and Sicilian sausage with pickled fennel are some of the standouts. Main courses highlight the local selection of premium meats, including thick-cut pork chops and large slabs of grilled rib eye. The kitchen is intensely focused on high quality ingredients, delicious pairings and applied skilled in cooking.
LAST WORD
An intriguing space, communal ambiance and exquisitely satisfying menu combine to elevate Proper to the top of the Buenos Aires foodie buzz list.
Parrilla Don Julio
There’s a hell of a lot of competition for the title of best parrilla in town, and this one consistently makes a very strong case for itself. How? By striking a great balance between traditional and indulgent. Expect sparking glasses filled with velvety malbec, smartly dressed waiters who know the menu inside out, walls lined with old wine bottles signed by past guests, and light fittings made from wagon wheels. The dining room looks into an open kitchen, so ask your waiter to explain the various cuts of meat and they’ll be happy to give you a crash course, based on samples sizzling away on the grill. From the bife de chorizo (sirloin) and lomo (tenderloin) to mollejas (sweetbreads) and chinchulins (chitterlings), you’ll soon understand the old adage: the only part of a cow an Argentinian doesn’t eat is the moo.
Sacro
High-end vegan restaurant and bar est. 2018 in central Palermo. The food menu is divided into four sections: snacks, light, bold, and sweet. Dishes are international and carefully presented, with examples such as: activated charcoal empanada, carrot baos, barbacoa tacos, sweet potato ravioli, and dessert palta lime pie or tarte au chocolat. The bar serves a variety of cocktails that integrate superfoods and cold-pressed juices. Reservations suggested but not required.