10 Must-Try Foods in Argentina: A Traveler's Guide

Argentina is a country that captivates the senses with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and, of course, its incredible cuisine. From succulent steaks to sweet dulce de leche, Argentine food is a celebration of bold flavors and time-honored traditions. If you’re planning a trip to Argentina, here’s a guide to 10 must-try foods that will make your culinary journey unforgettable.

​1. Asado
Asado is Argentina’s iconic barbecue, featuring a variety of grilled meats such as beef, pork, and chorizo. The meat is cooked slowly over an open flame, resulting in a smoky and flavorful dish. Asado is a social event in Argentina, often enjoyed with family and friends.

Where to Try:

​La Brigada (Buenos Aires): A legendary parrilla (steakhouse) that serves an excellent asado in a traditional setting.
​Don Julio (Buenos Aires): A popular spot for high-quality grilled meats and a lively atmosphere.

​2. Empanadas
Empenadas are savory pastries filled with ingredients like beef, chicken, cheese, or vegetables. They’re a popular snack or light meal in Argentina and are perfect for on-the-go travelers.

Where to Try:

​La Cocina (Buenos Aires): A cozy café that serves a variety of delicious empanadas.
​El Sanjuanino (Buenos Aires): A popular spot for traditional Argentine empanadas.
​3. Milanesa
Milanesa is a breaded and fried meat cutlet, similar to a schnitzel. It’s typically made with beef or chicken and is often served with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

Where to Try:

​La Cabrera (Buenos Aires): A trendy restaurant that offers a modern take on traditional milanesa.
​El Preferido de Palermo (Buenos Aires): A charming bistro that serves a classic milanesa in a cozy setting.
​4. Choripán
Choripán is a popular street food in Argentina, consisting of a grilled chorizo sausage served in a crusty bread roll. It’s often topped with chimichurri sauce and is a quick and satisfying snack.

Where to Try:

​Chori (Buenos Aires): A trendy food stall that specializes in creative choripán variations.
​La Carnicería (Buenos Aires): A modern parrilla that serves a delicious choripán with homemade chimichurri.

​5. Locro
Locro is a hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat (usually beef or pork). It’s a traditional dish in Argentina, often enjoyed during national holidays and festivals.

Where to Try:

​El Federal (Buenos Aires): A historic restaurant that serves an authentic locro in a charming setting.
​Café San Juan (Buenos Aires): A trendy bistro that offers a modern take on traditional locro.
​6. Provoleta
Provoleta is a grilled provolone cheese dish, often served as an appetizer or side dish. The cheese is grilled until melted and bubbly, then topped with oregano and olive oil.

Where to Try:

​La Cabrera (Buenos Aires): A trendy restaurant that offers a modern take on traditional provoleta.
​El Preferido de Palermo (Buenos Aires): A charming bistro that serves a classic provoleta in a cozy setting.
​7. Dulce de Leche
Dulce de leche is a sweet caramel-like spread made from condensed milk. It’s a staple in Argentine cuisine and is used in a variety of desserts, such as alfajores and pancakes.

Where to Try:

​Havanna (Buenos Aires): A popular café that specializes in dulce de leche-based desserts.
​Café Tortoni (Buenos Aires): A historic café that serves a delicious dulce de leche in a charming setting.
​8. Alfajores
Alfajores are sweet sandwich cookies filled with dulce de leche and often coated in chocolate or powdered sugar. They’re a popular treat in Argentina and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Where to Try:

​Havanna (Buenos Aires): A popular café that specializes in alfajores.
​Café Tortoni (Buenos Aires): A historic café that serves a delicious alfajores in a charming setting.
​9. Yerba Mate
Yerba mate is a traditional Argentine drink made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant. It’s often shared among friends and family and is a symbol of hospitality in Argentina.

Where to Try:

​Café San Juan (Buenos Aires): A trendy bistro that offers a modern take on traditional yerba mate.
​El Federal (Buenos Aires): A historic restaurant that serves an authentic yerba mate in a charming setting.
​10. Medialunas
Medialunas are sweet, crescent-shaped pastries similar to croissants. They’re a popular breakfast item in Argentina and are often enjoyed with coffee or tea.

Where to Try:

​Havanna (Buenos Aires): A popular café that specializes in medialunas.
​Café Tortoni (Buenos Aires): A historic café that serves a delicious medialunas in a charming setting.
​Conclusion
Argentine cuisine is a delightful blend of bold flavors and time-honored traditions. From succulent asado to sweet dulce de leche, every dish offers a taste of Argentina’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Buenos Aires or the serene landscapes of Patagonia, these 10 must-try foods will make your culinary journey unforgettable. ¡Buen provecho! (Bon appétit!)