The Best Traditional Bodegones in Buenos Aires

Nestled in the heart of Buenos Aires, La Pipeta shines with its simple, home-style cuisine that remains timeless. Since 1961, it has delighted diners with typical porteño dishes such as its flank steak and delicious chard fritters.  

Over the years, and with more than 50 years of history, La Pipeta embodies the best of Buenos Aires’ bodegones, preserving its homely essence and exceptional quality in each dish.  

Open from Monday to Saturday, La Pipeta surprises visitors with delectable offerings like traditional pasta with sauce and Napolitan milanesas with French fries. Furthermore, it serves classic porteño appetisers, such as pickled eggplants and ham and cheese empanadas.  

Thanks to the kindness of its staff and excellent service, combined with the exquisite taste of its dishes, La Pipeta is often bustling with patrons. We recommend making a reservation before your visit to ensure you don’t miss out on dining at one of the finest bodegones in Buenos Aires.

For lovers of homemade food and authentic porteño barbecues, El Ferroviario is a must-visit in the Liniers neighbourhood. This establishment has managed to maintain the spirit of the classic porteño bodegón over the years, beginning as a buffet for the staff of the Domingo F. Sarmiento railway. Hence, its name.  

El Ferroviario stands out for its meats, which are the true stars of the menu. However, don’t be fooled into thinking that’s all you can enjoy here; the restaurant boasts a delightful repertoire of the best porteño fare: homemade pasta, provoleta, cold dishes, and empanadas are just a few highlights on the menu.  

With the capacity to accommodate over 800 diners daily, this venue offers a warm and family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a hearty meal together. Among its must-try dishes are the grilled provoleta and its delectable cuts of meat, making El Ferroviario an unforgettable destination. Remember to reserve in advance, as it tends to fill up quickly.

Spiagge di Napoli is an Italian bodegón located in the Boedo neighbourhood, where you’ll be treated to delicious homemade pasta and a lively atmosphere. Founded over 80 years ago by an immigrant family, this eatery has become an iconic spot in the city.  

The ambiance is vibrant and inviting, featuring hanging hams, plates of pasta being whisked away, and an impressive collection of wines adorning the walls. Spiagge di Napoli draws diners of all ages thanks to its excellent value for money. Its fresh pasta, including tagliatelle, sorrentinos, and fusilli (always served with generous helpings of grated cheese), is just some of the must-try offerings at this bodegón in Buenos Aires.  

In addition to classic homemade pasta, don’t miss out on other delicious items from the menu, such as the milanesa with French fries and the barbecue. However, we strongly recommend the fusilli with stew, which is incredibly homemade, generous, and so tasty that you’ll be coming back for more.  

Although they don’t accept reservations, we assure you that the wait is worth it to enjoy one of the best traditional restaurants in Buenos Aires.

This iconic bodegón, with over 114 years of history, provides a unique dining experience where you can sample the best of German cuisine. On its menu, you’ll find delicious smoked sausages with sauerkraut, German chorizos, and goulash, alongside our classic milanesas. You can also enjoy paella and seafood rice, blending international flavours with porteño cuisine.  

The atmosphere at Bar Alemán is welcoming, family-oriented, and lively, making it ideal for family gatherings or dinners with friends. The service stands out for its friendliness and attentiveness.  

An important note is that, like many other bodegones in Buenos Aires, the portions are generous and meant for sharing, so we recommend always asking before ordering any dish. The most recommended by diners are the Napolitan breaded steak and the caramel custard with whipped cream and dulce de leche for dessert.  

If you’re looking to explore more traditional German dishes without straying too far from your comfort zone, this is the perfect spot. You can start with a platter of typical German cold cuts and then indulge in a homemade dish bursting with authentic porteño flavours to enjoy the best of this traditional place.

El Globo is one of the most traditional bodegones in Buenos Aires. Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant is famed for its classic stew, which, for those unfamiliar, is a dish that combines meat, legumes, and a wide variety of vegetables.  

In its spacious dining area, which accommodates 150 diners with an annexe for another 80, you can appreciate the incredible décor that takes you back in time: swinging wooden doors, large windows, mirrors, classic paintings, and antique coat racks. Maintaining its essence throughout the years, it offers diners a unique gastronomic experience in an atmosphere reminiscent of traditional Argentine eateries.  

In addition to the popular dish known as Puchero, its menu features a wide array of traditional Argentine dishes served in hearty portions. Visiting El Globo is a unique experience if you’re touring the classic restaurants of Buenos Aires. Don’t miss out on the chance to savour the authentic flavours of porteño cuisine at this emblematic bodegón.

In the heart of the Villa del Parque neighbourhood, El Antojo is known for its spacious and inviting atmosphere that always draws in a crowd. This renowned bodegón in Buenos Aires is famous for its generous portions and homemade bread, which accompany delights like breaded steak, calamari, and the famous San Juan-style beef that features in its varied menu.  

However, this Buenos Aires restaurant distinguishes itself from others with one of Argentina’s traditional dishes: the milanesa. Each breaded steak is designed for sharing, allowing you to choose from a variety of toppings such as bacon, longaniza, blue cheese, and more.  

We must mention that one of the most popular milanesa options comes topped with mozzarella, corn cream, and slices of hard-boiled egg, all baked with Parmesan. It’s served alongside French fries.  

This porteño bodegón takes pride in the generous size of its portions and the variety of comforting dishes on its menu. The El Antojo´s setting recalls the warmth of old neighbourhood bars, and the friendly service ensures that food lovers visit frequently.

El Obrero is an iconic bodegón in Buenos Aires, located in the legendary La Boca neighbourhood and just steps from Usina del Arte. Founded in 1954, it has borne witness to countless stories, welcoming a diverse array of patrons from local workers to personalities from the arts, music, and sports. Its walls are adorned with football jerseys, historical photographs, and pennants, celebrating the rich history of the neighbourhood and the establishment.  

The menu at El Obrero focuses on hearty, homemade dishes, offering a broad selection that includes meats, pasta, and purées. Among its specialities are the calamari and seafood casserole.  

Over the years, this bodegón in Buenos Aires has hosted international celebrities like Susan Sarandon, Francis Ford Coppola, and Diego Maradona, making it a landmark of the city’s culinary heritage.

This iconic bodegón is located in the San Telmo neighbourhood, right in the heart of the city. Established in 1864, it is no ordinary restaurant in Buenos Aires; it has transitioned from a pulpería to a grocery store and, ultimately, to a distinguished bar and bodegón recognised for its quality by the Ministry of Culture of the City.  

Its walls tell stories of generations who have found a place of camaraderie and connection at its tables. However, what stands out most are its delicious dishes that showcase the best of porteño cuisine.  

Sharing platters, Spanish tortillas, meats, and homemade ravioli are just a few of the delights that captivate those who visit. Additionally, El Federal distinguishes itself not only by the variety of its menu but also by making its bread and pasta. Perhaps most notably, they brew their beer and cider, which you absolutely must try.  

Stepping into El Federal is like taking a journey back in time and immersing yourself in the authentic porteño essence. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!