Buenos Aires is known for many things: its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant nightlife, to name a few. But perhaps one of the city’s most iconic features is its delicious and hearty cuisine, particularly its world-renowned beef. As the birthplace of the tango and the land of the gauchos, Buenos Aires has a long and proud tradition of grilling meat to perfection, and the city is home to some of the best steakhouses in the world.
We had the chance to visit all three restaurants when we were in Buenos Aires and I can’t wait to share more about these delicious steakhouses with you. Whether you’re a seasoned carnivore or a curious foodie, Buenos Aires is the perfect destination for a meaty adventure, and these steakhouses are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Argentine cuisine. Not only are these steakhouses delicious, you’ll spend the same amount going to all three as you would going to one steakhouse in the United States. Here they are in alphabetical order.
Don Julio
Don Julio is not just any steakhouse – it’s a true gem of Buenos Aires that captures the essence of Argentine hospitality and cuisine. It may seem touristy, but even my friend who was born and raised in Buenos Aires said it was his number one recommendation! The moment you step into Don Julio, you’ll be greeted by warm and friendly staff that will make you feel like family, in fact, your favorite family member in the world, because they’ll hand you a complimentary glass of champagne and fresh made empanda. The restaurant’s cozy and elegant ambiance, with its traditional decor and charming details, adds to the overall warmth of the dining experience.
And then there’s the food. Don Julio’s selection of meats, all of which are sourced from the finest grass-fed cattle in Argentina, is truly a carnivore’s dream come true. From the tender and flavorful ribeye to the mouth-watering bife de chorizo, every cut is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Oh, and did I mention the empanadas? We ordered more! They are handmade and absolutely delicious.
But what sets Don Julio apart is their attention to detail and commitment to excellence. The restaurant’s wine list is carefully curated to complement the rich and savory flavors of the meat, and their champagne selection is a luxurious and unique touch that elevates the dining experience to a whole new level. So if you’re looking for more than just a great steak, but a dining experience that’s warm, welcoming, and truly memorable, Don Julio is the perfect destination. With its outstanding cuisine, impeccable service, and charming ambiance, it’s no wonder that Don Julio has become one of the most beloved steakhouses in Buenos Aires and in the world!
Although I can’t choose a favorite from this list of steakhouses, because they are all delicious, Don Julio has a really special place in my heart as it was the first dinner we enjoyed with our best friends when we arrived in Buenos Aires!
La Cabrera
Located in the Palermo neighborhood, La Cabrera is one of the most popular steakhouses in Buenos Aires. The restaurant is always packed, so honestly I don’t even recommend going unless you don’t mind a wait or you made a reservation in advance. The menu is extensive, and the portions are generous. Some of the standout dishes include the tenderloin, ribeye, and the famous provoleta (grilled provolone cheese). La Cabrera is not just a steakhouse – it’s a vibrant and welcoming dining destination that captures the essence of Argentine culture. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be greeted with a warm smile and a lively atmosphere that is both fun and inviting. The restaurant’s quirky decor, with vintage signs and colorful murals, adds to the overall ambiance, making you feel right at home. Our server was adorable and was so kind to us!
And then there’s the food. La Cabrera’s extensive menu is a celebration of Argentina’s culinary heritage, showcasing the country’s love affair with meat. From traditional cuts such as vacío and bife de chorizo to more unique offerings like flank steak and skirt steak, there’s something for every meat lover at La Cabrera. And let’s not forget the sides – the provoleta, empanadas, and mashed potatoes are just a few of the must-try dishes that perfectly complement the steaks. But what truly sets La Cabrera apart is the generosity of their portions. The ojo de bife, their signature dish, is a true feast for the senses – a juicy and flavorful ribeye steak that’s big enough to share with your loved ones. This ribeye was TO DIE FOR! It was so tender he cut for me it with a spoon, just to show off! I will say, these portions were the biggest and by far the most affordable! We left just as satisfied and our bill was half as expensive as it was at Don Julio.
La Carnicería
Located in the trendy neighborhood of Palermo Hollywood, La Carnicería is a newcomer to the Buenos Aires steak scene. This restaurant was literally right next to our hotel, so it’s my greatest regret we didn’t make it a priority to try it. Our friends went though and said it was delicious! Despite its relatively short history, the restaurant has quickly gained a reputation for serving some of the best meat in the city. The menu features a range of cuts, including skirt steak, flank steak, and short ribs. They cook the meat over a wood-fired grill, giving it a delicious smoky flavor.
What sets La Carnicería apart is their commitment to using only the finest ingredients and showcasing the best of Argentine cuisine. The meat, sourced from local farmers, is always of the highest quality and cooked to perfection, with a variety of cuts to choose from. The menu also features traditional Argentine dishes such as provoleta, empanadas, and sweetbreads, as well as a selection of delicious sides to complement the meat.
Overall, La Carnicería is a must-visit. With its commitment to quality, passion for great food, and warm and inviting ambiance, it’s no wonder that La Carnicería has become a beloved neighborhood gem in Buenos Aires.
There you have it! La Cabrera, Don Julio, and La Carnicería are three of the top steakhouses in Buenos Aires. They each have their own unique style and offerings. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a visit to any of these three steakhouses is a must for anyone looking to experience the best of Argentine cuisine. The abundance of quality steakhouses in Buenos Aires is a testament to the country’s longstanding reputation for producing some of the world’s best beef. Which one sounds the best to you? Thanks so much for reading along and click here to check out my other blogs posts about Buenos Aires.
