Welcome to Buenos Aires, a city that pulses with vibrant energy and rich traditions and Popular Drinks in Argentina to try when visiting. Beyond its stunning architecture, passionate tango scenes, and mouthwatering cuisine, Buenos Aires is also home to a diverse and delightful array of local beverages.
Read also: 10 Foods to Eat in Buenos Aires and where to get them
6 Popular Drinks in Argentina to try
Mate
Yerba mate is a super popular drink in Argentina. It’s kind of like tea. “Yerba” refers to the herb leaves, and “mate” is the cup where you put the dry yerba. You then add hot water and sip it through a special straw called a “bombilla.”
The yerba comes from the Ilex paraguariensis tree and is made from its leaves and twigs.
It is by far the popular Drinks in Argentina to try when visiting.
There are some rules and social habits when it comes to drinking Mate. You read them all here.
Wine
Argentina is renowned for its exceptional wine, boasting a rich heritage that dates back centuries. From the sun-soaked vineyards of Mendoza to the high-altitude regions of Patagonia, the country’s diverse climate and terrain create the perfect conditions for growing some of the finest wines in the world.
Try the red Malbec wine that suits perfectly with red meat or the white wine Torrontes.
TIP: in local supermarkets, you can find top-class wines for a cheap price.
Find a wine tasting in Buenos Aires and try all the wines.
Fernet with coke
Fernet and Coca-Cola, Argentina’s iconic drink duo. In Argentina, this unique combination is more than just a cocktail; it’s a cultural phenomenon that embodies the country’s vibrant spirit and social traditions.
Fernet, a bitter herbal liqueur, blends perfectly with the sweetness of Coca-Cola to create a refreshing and flavorful mix. Locals drink Fernet Coca when meeting with friends in the evening or before parties.
Ask for your Fernet and coke at any steakhouse or bar in Buenos Aires.
Coffee
You might be asking, why should you try coffee? Well, Argentina has a fantastic coffee culture thanks to Italian influence. In Buenos Aires, it’s pretty typical to start your morning at a café with a coffee and a medialuna. A medialuna is a little pastry that’s similar to a croissant but slightly sweeter and smaller.
Just step into a local cafe and order your Argentine morning ritual.
TIP: there are several types of coffee
- Cortado: espresso with the same amount of milk
- Cafe con leche: larger cup with more milk
- Americano: espresso lengthened with hot water
- Cappuccino: espresso with large amount of steamed milk
Vermouth
Vermouth is a fortified wine enhanced with a variety of herbs and spices. It was introduced to Argentina by Italian immigrants and has steadily gained popularity.
Today, vermouth is a cherished part of Buenos Aires’ beverage scene, with dedicated vermuterías that focus on crafting exquisite vermouth cocktails.
This popular drink is commonly served chilled with a dash of soda water and garnished with a slice of orange, making it a refreshing choice for many.
You can ask it easily at any bar or restaurant.
Dulce de Leche Liqueur
Dulce de leche liqueur is a sweet treat that’s like a caramel lover’s dream come true. Imagine taking that rich, creamy dulce de leche—one of those irresistible caramel spreads—and turning it into a liqueur. It is a blending of the traditional dulce de leche with a base spirit, often rum or vodka.
It is perfect as a digestive after dinner.
Submarino
Submarine drink, or “submarino” as they call it in Spanish, is pretty cool. You just drop a bar of chocolate into a glass of hot milk. As the chocolate melts, it makes the milk all rich and creamy with chocolatey goodness. It’s kind of like making hot chocolate at home, but with the fun twist of watching the chocolate melt right in your glass.
A very common drink to order in a cafe in Buenos Aires on a cold winter day and one of the popular drinks in Argentina to try.
