Buenos Aires Guide 2024

General Safety/Admin Tips for Buenos Aires:

Safety:

• Buenos Aires is generally safe, especially in tourist/expat areas like North/Central neighborhoods.

• Avoid slums and exercise caution in La Boca and surrounding areas, particularly at night.

• Personal experience indicates areas like Palermo Soho are safe for walking alone, even at night.

Theft Prevention:

• Phone and purse snatching are common.

• Use cross-body bags or fanny packs with thick straps and keep backpacks in front of you.

• Don’t use phones or headphones while walking. Be aware of your surroundings.

• Snatchers often operate in pairs, grabbing items and escaping on motorcycles.

Exchange Rates:

• The exchange rate fluctuates significantly. Research rates regularly.

• As of January 2024, the MEP (credit card) rate is the best.

• Bringing $100 bills for exchange at Casa de Cambio (e.g., Plaza Italia) has been advisable.

• When in doubt, use your credit card for a reliable rate.

Money Safety:

• Always keep a backup credit card and some cash at your accommodation.

• Exchange small amounts of cash as needed due to fluctuating rates.

Transport from Airports:

• From AEP: Take an Uber or taxi.

• From EZE: Use a remise (pre-booked car service) for a reliable, clean, and upfront-priced ride. Remises accept credit cards and prevent fare disputes.

Food Allergies:

• Be cautious with food, especially baked goods, as allergens like nuts are often not listed in descriptions.

Digital Nomad/Long Term Travel Notes for Buenos Aires:

Work Environment:

• Palermo Soho offers many cafes for remote work, but internet can be unreliable. Reserve important calls for your accommodation.

• Coworking spaces like Selina in Palermo Soho offer reliable WiFi, akin to small WeWorks.

Security Tips:

• Don’t leave valuables unattended in public places; theft is common, especially with electronics like laptops.

Social and Legal Tips:

• Join expat groups on Facebook for networking. Dating apps like Hinge can help connect with English speakers.

• Tourist visas allow 90 days; consider a day trip to Uruguay (Colonia) to reset your stay. Overstaying incurs minimal fees.

Language and Healthcare:

• Learn basic Spanish; English isn’t widely spoken.

• Opt for travel health insurance to use private hospitals like Swiss Medical, preserving public healthcare for locals.

Fitness and Recreation:

• Numerous gyms in Palermo/Recoleta; options include Always Club, Megatlon (upscale), and Freddie’s Fit Club (English-friendly).

• Parque Tres de Febrero is popular for running and walking, with wide paths and clubs for various activities.

Food and Shopping:

• Groceries are best bought as needed due to limited large stores. Local shops (Chinos) are convenient for daily needs.

• Restaurants are affordable, but produce can be scarce; visit fruit/vegetable shops with cash and reusable bags.

Transportation and Culture:

• Use Buenos Aires’ efficient public transport or affordable Uber/taxis.

• Walkability is high, though watch for dog waste and accessibility issues.

• Embrace Argentine culture; locals are proud and welcoming, despite occasional anti-US sentiments.

These tips aim to enhance your experience in Buenos Aires, balancing work, leisure, and cultural immersion effectively.

General Restaurant Tips for Buenos Aires:

Seafood and Sushi:

- Despite being a port city, Buenos Aires isn’t known for fresh seafood. Approach seafood with moderate expectations.

- Sushi can be unconventional, often featuring cream cheese and unusual combinations like guacamole.

Local Cuisine Highlights:

- Argentine pizza is a must-try; while proud of their pizza, try woodfired pizza at Siamo nel Forno for an exceptional experience.

- Order steak rarer than usual unless at La Carniceria, known for perfect cooking every time.

Dining Practices:

- Dinner starts around 9 pm, with most restaurants opening at 8 pm. Reserve if dining after 9:30 pm, often via restaurant websites.

- Be cautious with Google reviews; local tastes may differ significantly, particularly with ethnic cuisines.

Spicy Food and Service Expectations:

- Argentine perception of spicy food is mild; labeled "spicy" dishes may be less intense than expected.

- Service can be slow; anticipate reminding waiters for drinks and appetizers during meals.

These tips help navigate Buenos Aires’ dining scene, emphasizing local specialties and cultural dining norms.

Restaurant Recommendations in Buenos Aires:

Don Julio

- Steakhouse; reservation for May 2.

- Highly praised for its 900 gram beef and pepper appetizer.

- Deserves a spot on the World’s Best 50 Restaurants list.

El Preferido Palermo

- Argentinian cuisine.

- Sherpa food tour highlight with great appetizers.

- Recommended for a full dining experience despite mixed reviews on steak.

Nicky Harrison

- Japanese-Peruvian cuisine and cocktail lounge.

- Immaculate vibes and decor, but food quality varies.

- Visit for drinks and try the speakeasy for excellent cocktails.

Koeru Sushi/Ramen

- Vibrant decor with solid sushi and ramen options.

- Avoids cream cheese in rolls, good for exploring more sushi dishes.

- Located near Scalabrini Ortiz.

Moshu Treehouse

- Brunch spot with Tulum-like vibes.

- Offers large portions, great brunch, and desserts.

La Baita

- Italian cuisine with a solid selection of pasta and appetizers.

- English-friendly environment in Palermo.

El Caldén del Soho

- Traditional Argentine steakhouse.

- Excellent steak; specify cooking preference in English.

- Popular among expats and tourists.

Mikhuna Nikkei

- Asian fusion sushi restaurant.

- Recommended for a la carte ordering to avoid overly experimental dishes.

The Argentine Experience

- Steakhouse offering interactive dining experience.

- Ideal for short stays to explore Argentine cuisine highlights.

Cucina Paradaiso

- Italian chain in Buenos Aires with daily pasta specials.

- Known for great pastas and focaccia in Palermo Soho.

El Burrito Real

- Mexican restaurant with decent options.

- Good choice for Mexican cravings in Buenos Aires.

L’Adesso

- Upscale Italian dining.

- Known for cacio e pepe prepared in a wheel of cheese and great ambiance.

Osaka Palermo

- Well-rated sushi restaurant in Palermo Soho.

- Recommended for sushi enthusiasts.

Tonno Soho

- Pizza restaurant near Palermo.

- Decent pizzas but noted for heavy cheese toppings.

San Mariano Pizzeria

- Neapolitan-style pizzas.

- Casual dining experience with traditional pizzas.

La Escondida

- Restaurant venue with mixed reviews; visited during an NYU event.

Mezcal

- Mexican restaurant near Plaza Armenia.

- Drinks recommended over food quality.

Punch Curry Bar

- Southeast Asian cuisine; best Thai food found so far.

- Noted for flavorful apps with a variety of dishes.

Visit Local Home…

- Popular home dining experience in Buenos Aires.

- Originated during economic crises, offering unique meals at local residences.

Casha Rotisserie

- Offers a speakeasy and rooftop dining.

- Great potential for returning due to positive food tour experience.

Emperador Meiji

- New Japanese restaurant in Palermo Hollywood.

- Recommended by UBA students for Japanese cuisine.

La Carniceria

- Steakhouse known for excellent steaks on Thames.

- Popular among expats and tourists for its consistency.

Sorrento

- Italian restaurant at Puerto Madero.

- Good for seafood and solid Italian dishes.

Fervor

- Middle Eastern cuisine in Recoleta.

- Notable for grilled vegetable appetizers and quality steak.

Quotidiano

- Italian restaurant in Alto Palermo mall.

- Nice interior with tasty black spaghetti pasta dishes.

Roux

- Intimate upscale restaurant with Latin-Mediterranean cuisine.

- Highly recommended for its innovative dishes and desserts.

Oviedo

- Spanish restaurant known for its wine list and old-world atmosphere.

- Offers traditional Spanish dishes in a genteel setting.

Anchoita

- Upscale restaurant offering a variety of cuisines.

Aramburu

- Fine dining experience with an 18-course tasting menu.

- Relais & Chateau-sponsored; innovative dishes and dessert courses.

Bis Bistro

- Elegant spot suitable for brunch or early dinners.

- Known for vegetable sides and variety.

Paru Inkas Sushi & Grill

- Fancy sushi restaurant with locations across Buenos Aires.

El Niño Gordo

- Colorful Asian fusion restaurant and bar.

- Offers fun cocktails and shareable plates.

La Mar

- Refined seafood-focused restaurant with a stylish patio.

Food Truck Store

- Industrial-style eatery with burgers, paninis, and finger foods.

Casa Cavia

- Eclectic restaurant in Palermo Chico.

- Set in an old mansion with excellent food and cocktails.

Cocu Boulangerie

- French-style cafe in Palermo.

- Known for good croissants and beverages.

Fabric Sushi

- Chain sushi restaurant near Plaza Armenia.

- Offers sushi without cream cheese upon request.

Siamo Nel Forno

- Napoleon-style pizza in Palermo Hollywood.

- Highly praised for authentic Italian pizzas.

Chinofino

- Ramen and bao restaurant in Palermo Soho.

- Known for good apps and ramen dishes.

These restaurants offer a diverse culinary experience in Buenos Aires, catering to various tastes and preferences.

Coffee Shops/Dessert Places:

Hacienda Cafe

- Spacious with good light.

- Recommended for avocado toast and great orange juice.

- Ideal for breakfast or lunch and a few hours of work.

Full City Coffee House

- Highly regarded coffee shop in Palermo Soho.

- Must-visit spot for coffee enthusiasts.

Cafe Tortoni

- Historic coffee house near Plaza de Mayo.

- Known for its aesthetic; recommended for coffee or drinks rather than dining.

El Gato Negro

- Another old-fashioned coffee shop near the obelisk.

- Worth checking out for its traditional ambiance.

Las Violetas

- Elegant coffee shop with positive reviews.

- Located about a 30-minute walk from the University of Palermo.

Petit Colon

- Cafe next to the theater with large portions and unique sandwiches.

- Great decor; recommended if attending a nearby show.

Kajue Cafe

- Located near Don Julio in Palermo Soho.

- Ideal for work-from-home with quiet ambiance, ample outlets, and friendly staff.

Erre Cafe

- Palermo Soho cafe with convenient location and decent coffee.

- Occasionally experiences power outages but offers open tables and outlets.

Surry Hills

- Australian-style cafe in Palermo Soho.

- Known for good coffee, juices, and breakfast food.

Rapa Nui

- Ice cream and chocolate chain originally from Bariloche.

- Considered one of the best places for ice cream in Buenos Aires.

Nightlife:

Tres Monos Bar

- Popular spot in Palermo Soho with great cocktails and live music.

Overo Bar

- Good vibes; offers a terrace and lower-level rooms.

BrukBar

- Quirky cocktail bar with attentive service.

Kika

- Straight club; sporadically lively atmosphere.

Fiesta Plop

- Gay club in an old theater; recommended for a vibrant nightlife experience.

Rheo

- Attracts a younger crowd; noted for its lively ambiance.

Vini Bar

- Offers diverse food options and excellent cocktails.

- Higher priced but enjoyable for drinks and appetizers.

Amerika

- Negative experience; criticized for transitions and drink quality.

Uptown

- Hip hangout with international fare and cocktails.

- Features a New York subway-themed entrance.

Bayside

- Large outdoor club near AEP airport.

- Known for its late-night atmosphere.

Floreria Atlántico

- Hidden cocktail joint and gastrobar; highly recommended.

- Offers fun cocktails and solid appetizers.

Trade Sky Bar

- Contemporary rooftop bar with tapas and scenic views.

- Ideal for sunset visits despite mixed cocktail reviews.

Presidente Bar

- Glamorous cocktail lounge with classic bites.

- Good for drinks with a lively atmosphere.

Franks

- Speakeasy-style bar with vintage decor.

- Known for high-end cocktails.

Activities:

Soccer Game

- Organized by Pibe del Barrio; immersive cultural experience.

Tango Show

- Visit Cafe Tortoni for an authentic glimpse into tango culture.

- Consider touristy but enjoyable.

Teatro Colon

- Stunning theater; recommended for tours and performances.

Ateneo Bookstore

- Beautiful bookstore; visit early to avoid crowds.

San Telmo Market

- Must-do for antiques and local goods on Sundays.

Recoleta Cemetery

- Historical tour recommended for its architectural beauty.

Palacio Barolo

- Tour for history and Dante-inspired architecture.

- Best visited at sunset for picturesque views.

Parks

- Explore parks in Palermo and Recoleta for evening walks.

Ecoparque

- Features diverse wildlife but closes early during weekdays.

Mate Class/Experience

- Find options on Airbnb for traditional mate sessions.

La Rural

- Check for events like exhibitions and fairs.

Cafe cerrado experience

- Visit Casa Saltshaker for unique dining in a home setting.

Day Trips:

Ranch (Estancia)

- Fun escape to learn about gaucho history.

Tigre (The Delta)

- Relaxing day trip by boat outside Buenos Aires.

Mar del Plata

- Beach destination; suitable for a long drive.

Weekend Trips:

Montevideo/Colonia, Uruguay

- Explore the beach and wine tours in Colonia.

Santiago, Chile

- City tours, viewpoints, and wine tours.

Mendoza, Argentina

- Wine country; ideal for wine and outdoor activities.

São Paulo, Brazil

- City break; explore local culture and cuisine.

Iguazú Falls, Argentina/Brazil

- Hiking and activities; Argentine side recommended.

Florianopolis, Brazil

- Beach break and hiking to viewpoints.

Encarnación, Paraguay

- Visit for historical significance and culture.

Longer Trips:

Patagonia

- Ideal for outdoor adventures and scenic beauty.

Salta/Jujuy

- Rich culture and landscape exploration.

These recommendations cover a wide range of experiences in and around Buenos Aires, ensuring memorable visits across dining, nightlife, activities, and trips.