Looking for the best steakhouse in Buenos Aires? You’ve likely seen the same three names recycled on every travel blog. This guide is different.
I have lived in Buenos Aires for years. I didn’t just research these spots; I’ve sat at every single parrilla on this list multiple times. I’ve navigated the two-hour waits, befriended the asadores (grill masters), and learned which cuts are worth the pesos and which are just tourist traps. From the cobblestones of San Telmo to the glitz of Puerto Madero, this is my authentic roadmap to the city’s best beef.
Local Pro Tip: Don’t just look for “restaurants.” In Argentina, we look for a Parrilla. It refers to both the physical iron grill and the establishment itself.
Read also: top 25 best things to do in Buenos Aires.
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Essential Tips Before You Visit an Argentine Parrilla
Before you tuck into a Bife de Chorizo, keep these insider rules in mind to avoid looking like a complete turista:
- Don’t Rush: An authentic asado is a slow-burn ritual. Meat is cooked over wood or charcoal embers, not high-flame gas. Expect to spend at least 2 hours at the table.
- Unraveling the “Parrillada”: If you order a parrillada para dos (mixed grill for two), you are signing up for the “nose-to-tail” experience. This includes chinchulines (small intestines), riñones (kidneys), and mollejas (sweetbreads). If you aren’t feeling adventurous, stick to individual cuts.
My Top Steakhouses in Buenos Aires
This selection is not based on online trends. I personally visited every steakhouse on the list — tasted, talked to the locals, and even stepped into the kitchens. I also included results from the city’s official “Best Steakhouse” competition. So if you’re ready to discover where the real meat lovers go, this guide will lead you to the best steakhouse in Buenos Aires.
1. Fogón Asado
Let’s start with Fogón Asado in Palermo — a fantastic night out and a deep dive into Argentine cuisine. You’ll join no more than 25 guests seated around the parrilla, watching the chef prepare a traditional asado right in front of you. It’s a behind-the-scenes experience you won’t get in any other grill restaurant.
The 8-course tasting menu is paired with local wines and kicks off with a welcome cocktail. From the first handmade empanada to the perfectly grilled Argentine beef, each dish flows seamlessly and tells a story of local flavor.
Fogón Asado is more than dinner — it’s an experience. With its spot in the Michelin Guide 2023 and limited seating, it’s one you’ll want to book ahead.
Link to website of Fogón Asado
Address: Uriarte 1423, Palermo
2. El Ferroviario
Number two on my list of the best steakhouse in Buenos Aires is El Ferroviario. This is as local as it gets! A classic comedor where the portions are huge, the meat falls right off the bone, and the quality is top-notch.
The staff know their cuts and will guide you well. No reservations here, so arrive early. It’s not unusual to wait up to two hours — but trust me, it’s worth it! If you’re after the real local steakhouse vibe, El Ferroviario is the place to be.
Personal Tip: Get the Asado Especial. It’s a massive rib cut that literally melts. There are no reservations—show up by 8:00 PM or prepare for a long (but worthy) wait.
Want to eat like a local at the best steakhouse in Buenos Aires? This is it.
Address: Av. Reservistas Argentinos 219, Buenos Aires
3. Huacho
Looking for a hidden gem in San Telmo? This is where I take my friends when they want an authentic, quiet meal away from the crowds. It’s a sensory experience: the smell of the charcoal hits you immediately, and the meat quality is second to none. The attention to detail here is personal and warm.
Every cut is grilled to order over open flames; I highly recommend the Ojo de Bife (ribeye) for its marbling or the Costilla (short ribs) for that deep, bone-in flavor.
Address: Balcarce 761, C1064 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires
4. La Cabrera steakhouse in Buenos Aires
La Cabrera shows up in every ranking of the best steakhouse in Buenos Aires — and for good reason. Opened in 2001 by Gastón Riviera in Palermo Soho, it brought upscale flair to the traditional parrilla.
I enjoyed both the atmosphere and the excellent meat quality. It’s stylish, lively, and easy to reach. If you’re looking for a more polished steakhouse experience, La Cabrera is a must-visit on your tour of the best steakhouse in Buenos Aires.
Address: José A. Cabrera 5127, Buenos Aires
Website: lacabrera.com.ar
5. Don Julio – The World-Famous Choice
At number five on my list is Don Julio, a well-known traditional grill in Palermo with an impressive wine list. In 2025, it topped the World’s 50 Best list as the best restaurant in Latin America. It’s polished, professional, and yes — very good.
But if you’re after a local experience, Don Julio might not hit the mark. Still, it’s a solid stop if you’re exploring the best steakhouse in Buenos Aires — just know what to expect.
My Take: The meat quality is undeniably 10/10, but be warned: it is 95% tourists. You will pay a premium for the name.
(!!) Watch out when making an online reservation. Many fake websites are going around. Never make a reservation when they ask for your credit card details in advance.
Address: Guatemala 4699, Buenos Aires
6. El Desnivel – The Soul of San Telmo
A grill in Buenos Aires located in the city’s oldest neighborhood San Telmo, that’s El Desnivel. This is a no-frills, “greasy spoon” style parrilla. Fluorescent lights, plastic tablecloths, and world-class meat.
The “Bife de Chorizo” is a recommendation but also the typical costillar or tirra de asado. Also, the true locals’ cuisine back to the roots of a parrilla in Buenos Aires at El Desnivel.
Address: Defensa 855, Buenos Aires
7. Parrilla 1880
Looking for a small, non-touristic, and cozy meat restaurant? Hidden next to Parque Lezama you find Parrilla 1880. A typical Buenos Aires menu card with good parrilla suggestions. A little secret on the edge of San Telmo.
Address: Defensa 1665, Buenos Aires
8. Estilo Campo
Head to Puerto Madero for my number six on “best steakhouse in Buenos Aires”, Estilo Campo. A good address for the fine cuisine parrilla. The fireplace will seduce you to go inside and eat meat fresh from the grill. It is possible to make a reservation online at Estilo Campo.
Address: Av. Alicia Moreau de Justo 1840, Buenos Aires
Website: estilo-campo.com.ar
9. El Boliche de Nico – Off the Beaten Path
A little bit further located from the heart of Buenos Aires you will find parrilla El Boliche de Nico. Located in Villa Urquiza/Colegiales, you won’t find many English speakers here. A colorful place with an extensive menu. Enjoy your Argentinian beef with a perfect wine. Online reservations are not possible.
Price: $
Address: Av. de Los Incas 4287, Buenos Aires
Website: elbolichedenico.com.ar
10. Santos Manjares – The downtown Gem
A parrilla in Buenos Aires that has more the offer than only meat. We suggest you take the steak from the grill on the menu. A big piece, well cooked and a siding. Located near the big avenue “9 de Julio”. Worth a place in our list of best grill in Buenos Aires.
Price: $$
Address: Paraguay 938, Buenos Aires
11. El Pobre Luis
A picturesque steakhouse located in the middle of Chinatown. The founder of the restaurant is from Uruguay. He brought some grill specialties from Uruguay to Buenos Aires. And by coincidence: Uruguay is number one in meat consumption per capita.
Price: $$$
Address: Arribeños 2393, Buenos Aires
Continue the list of best steakhouses
12. La Carnicería
Meaning “The butcher” translated to English. A gourmet-style steakhouse in Buenos Aires. Located in Palermo near Plaza Italia. The restaurant is not scared to experiment with the meat on the grill. Spices are well used here. La Carinicería is our final parrilla in Buenos Aires on the list.
Address: Thames 2317, Buenos Aires
13. La Brigada
La Brigada is a steakhouse in the heart of San Telmo, Buenos Aires. At La Brigada, you will have a wide choice of meat and sides. Accompanied by an extensive wine list. The waiters do know how to serve tourists, and without any problem, they will give some suggestions. My recommendation is to order the “Ojo de Bife”.
My Take: The decor is a soccer fan’s dream, covered in jerseys and memorabilia.
Address: Estados Unidos 465, Buenos Aires
The Ultimate Secret to Finding the “Best” Steak
Every Porteño (resident of BA) has a “hidden” parrilla that they swear is better than anyone else’s. It’s usually a small corner spot with a grumpy waiter who has worked there for 30 years.
If you want the ultimate experience, ask your taxi driver or your hotel’s night porter: “¿Cuál es su parrilla de barrio favorita?” (What is your favorite neighborhood grill?).
Grab a bottle of Malbec, a side of papas fritas, and enjoy the best beef on the planet. ¡Buen provecho!
18 Comments
hi Glenn
we will be in Buenos Aires in early September and staying at Kenton Palace, we are looking at Desnivel Restaurant and La Brigada as they are both closeby. it’s a difficult decision. we want the Argentinian experience as my husband is really looking forward to an Argentinean steak. can I ask what your preference would be? thankyou
Hi Rose, Super! Both are super. La Brigada is a bit more restaurant feeling as Desnivel has more the cantina feeling. I would choose La Brigada at this moment.
Hi!
We visited Don Julio a couple of weeks ago. The steaks tasted good, but not worth the price or the hype. Ridiculous how much it costs. Nine years ago a couple ate there for 700 arg pesos and they thought that was expensive. Our meal for 2; 155 000 arg pesos!!
I’d say don’t waste the money 🙂
I’m surprised you didn’t mention Parilla Peña. Great meal, lots of locals eating there AND we could have eaten there 3 times for the price of one meal at DJ! They also give you empanada, plus lots of bread while waiting for the steak dinner. I totally recommend that place 🙂
Hi Glen,
I love your website. I have already found a lot of useful information. Me and my husband will be arriving in BA this saturday. For Sunday we have a reservation at Don Julio, but they seated us outside. I am not sure if I am happy with that since the temperarures are not that high. We love going to nice restaurants and we appreciate good food and wine. Sitting outside in wintertime feels a bit off though, especially for a good restaurant. I have just checked and I also have a possibility to make a reservation at Fogon. So I am thinking about cancelling Don Julio and make the reservation for Fogon. Would you recommend me to do that? Do you know what sitting outside is like in winter at Don Julio? I hope to hear your opinion. Thanks!
BR Linda
Hi Linda, sitting outside is ok in winter but it would not be the best experience I think. Fogon Asado is a super option! It is a cozy place and you get to know the Argentina BBQ insights. Great service and quality. You can reserve here: link to website Fogon
Hi Glenn,
I will be travelling in June to Buenos Aires and would love to go to a good parrilla (Puerto Madero, Palermo or other), but I will be alone. Is it “weird” to go sit in one of these more classic restaurants just by myself? (Préférable sit down at a table, or, although not the best choice, at the counter). Do you see any people doing that? Or do you have any suggestions?
Thanks!
Hi Marcello, thanks for your message. It’s absolutely not weird to dine alone, especially in a vibrant city like Buenos Aires where solo dining is quite common. If you’re more comfortable, you can opt for a table rather than the counter. For example Fogón Asado is a perfect choice for a great quality dinner experience as all guests are seated at the counter. Have a great time!
Hello,
I will be in Argentina next week for work and need to find a restaurant for a large group of 16 people in Puerto Madero. Any recommendations? Thank you!
Hi, maybe Cabaña Las Lilas or La Parolaccia are good options for a group.
Hello!
I see Fogon Asado can be purchased for $80 (tasting menu) and $100 (Chef’s counter if seated in front of the chef). Also Get Your Guide sells the experience for $70. What am I missing here? Is it the same? Is the Chef’s counter worth it?
Hi, when I went to test there was no difference yet. But seeing the chef cooking was a very nice thing to see at Fogon Asado.
Hello Glenn, I am traveling to Buenos Aires in March 2024, I have a reservation to eat in Don Julio, but I heard that the prices in almost all restaurants are going up. Is it possible to have a picture of the most current Menu from any restaurant or from Don Julio? I really appreciate it. Gracias!!
Hi German, thanks for visiting my page about the best steakhouse in Buenos Aires. The price for a T-bone steak at Don Julio steak restaurant now (January 2024) is 65 USD. On average per steak cut the price vary from 35 USD to 70 USD.
Thank you Glenn for your answer, this helps a lot and it can give me an idea what to expect.
Thanks for this info! Any other leads I could follow to try to get tickets to the Oct 1 Boca Juniors game? Also, have you ever eaten at Lo de Jesus?
Hola,
I booked a flight to Buenos Aires on line from Canada with Aerolineas Argentinas .
I need to contact them but I can find no telephone # that is operational from Canada.
They instruct to use Whatsapp .
However, that also is non -existent.
Can you advise how in the world I can speak to a representative from this airline?
Many thanks …..Peggy
Hi Peggy, it’s indeed a problem to contact Aerolineas. It’s a known problem. I have no other contacts, sorry.
Bei mir sind es nun 56 Jahre her seid ich zum letzten Mal in Buenos Aires war. Als 3. Ingenieur fuhr ich auf der “Cap Palmas” ,einem Schiff der Reederei Hamburg-Süd. Vom Asado schwärme ich noch immer. Es gibt hier auch argentinische Lokale in denen Asado angeboten wird, aber ist nicht so gut wie in Buenos Aires. Am Retiro, dem Hauptbahnhof bin ich gern gewesen und habe den Diarios der Zeitungsausrufer zugehört.
Die Restaurants, die Asado anboten, hatten einen zusätzlichen Namen, dieser fällt mir leider nicht mehr ein.
Wir, haben immer Rindfleisch für Asado eingeksuft, das wir auf der Rückreise nach Hamburg, so lange das Wetter noch gut war, an Deck gegrillt haben.
Damals gab es auch fleischfreie Tage. An diesen Tagen durfte kein Fleisch verkauft werden. Von wegen kein Fleisch, Lamm-, Schweine-, Ziegen-, Geflügelfleisch gab es , aber für den Argentinier war das kein Fleisch. Fleisch war nur Rindfleisch und das wurde für den Export benötigt.
Von Buenos-Aires ging es nach Montevideo, Rio Grande do Sol, Santos, Rio de Janeiro und dann über den Teich nach Hamburg.
Es war eine schöne Zeit, an die ich mich gerne erinnere.
Viele Grüße aus Röthenbach/Pegnitz
Ansgar Neher