The 10 Restaurants in San Telmo Loved by Locals

I’ve been living in San Telmo for over eight years, just a few blocks from the charming Mercado de San Telmo. During that time, I’ve eaten my way through countless restaurants in San Telmo, from no-name parrillas tucked away on side streets to stylish spots that locals keep to themselves.

In this guide, I’ll share my favorite places to eat in San Telmo, no tourist traps, just good food and local flavor.

Don’t know where to stay in Buenos Aires? I recommend San Telmo to all travelers who want to discover the true vibe of the city. Check out here the list of best hotels in San Telmo to stay.

Tourist trap restaurants in San Telmo

Before I share my 10 favorite restaurants in San Telmo, here are a few essential tips. San Telmo has become a tourist hot spot, and with that came new restaurants, not always for the better. Avoid places where someone stands outside trying to lure you in. The ones on Plaza Dorrego? Often overpriced and underwhelming. Just around the corner, you’ll find much better options.

There’s also the Instagram-famous Atis, known for its pretty terrace in an old house. But honestly? The food doesn’t live up to the photos.

Restaurants in San Telmo

#1: El Refuerzo

My absolute favorite restaurant in San Telmo is El Refuerzo. It’s a locally owned spot serving delicious Argentine-style food. I had one of the tastiest Argentine steaks there, nothing else has come close so far. Portions are generous and perfect for sharing. One starter, one main, and a dessert to share is ideal for two people.

When in San Telmo, don’t miss El Refuerzo!

Address: Chacabuco 860 in San Telmo

#2: PES

PES in San Telmo isn’t your typical Argentine-flavor restaurant. It offers a surprising fusion of Argentine and Peruvian cuisine. From traditional ñoquis with a Peruvian twist to refreshing ceviche, the flavors really stand out.

It’s also set on one of the coziest streets in San Telmo: Bolívar. Especially on warm summer evenings, it’s the place to be. The indoor space is small, but on those golden sunset evenings, the outdoor terrace spills onto the street with plenty of room to enjoy the vibe.

See the menu of PES
Address: Bolívar 916 in San Telmo

#3: Desnivel

The first steakhouse in San Telmo on this list is Desnivel. Open since 1993, it’s a true icon in the neighborhood and has become popular with both locals and tourists. As a local, I can say the meat and service are consistently good — and that’s important in Argentina, where quality steak is no joke.

Want the true local experience? Head to Desnivel around 21:30, when the place fills up with porteños. The good news? It’s open from midday to midnight, so if you’re in the mood for an early dinner, that works too.

👉 Looking for more steakhouses in Buenos Aires? Check out my guide to the top-rated parrillas in the city.

See the menu of Desnivel
Address: Defensa 855 – The street of the San Telmo Sunday Fair

#4: Caseros

If you’re strolling down Avenida Caseros, one of the most elegant streets in San Telmo, you’ll spot a bright corner restaurant with big windows and a soft retro charm. That’s Caseros Restaurant – and yes, I’ve eaten there more times than I can count.

Caseros isn’t trying to be trendy. Instead, it’s all about honest, homemade cooking with a Mediterranean twist. Think warm prawn salads, tender malfatti with spinach, eggplant parmesan… all simple dishes done very well. It’s the kind of place where you sit down for lunch and end up staying for dessert, and maybe even a glass of Malbec.

Address: Avenida Caseros 486 in San Telmo

#5: Restaurante Manolo

Are you in for a true local experience? Then have dinner at Manola in San Telmo. It’s the go-to spot for locals, especially on a Sunday afternoon. Families, friends, couples, all enjoying classic Argentine comfort food.

I’ve been there many times with family, and it’s always packed with locals (a very good sign). The service is friendly, the food is great, and the portions are generous. Just how Argentines like it. Think milanesas bigger than your plate, hearty pastas, and classic meat dishes.

It’s not fancy, but that’s exactly the charm. Manola is one of those places where you feel right at home.

Address: Bolívar 1299 in San Telmo

#6: Mercado de San Telmo

No list of the best restaurants in San Telmo would be complete without mentioning the Mercado de San Telmo. This historic market is packed with restaurant bars offering everything from some of the tastiest empanadas in town to juicy steaks and delicious tapas.

It’s the perfect spot for lunch or an early evening bite. Just keep in mind. The market closes at 20:00, so it’s not a dinner destination. But for a casual food tour in the heart of San Telmo, this place is a must.

Address and more information about San Telmo Market here

#7: Grapin

One of the newer gems in San Telmo is Grapin, a fully vegetarian fine dining spot with serious culinary talent behind it. The menu is creative, flavorful, and proves you don’t need meat for a standout meal. Expect refined dishes, reasonable prices, and one of the best cocktail cards in the area. The atmosphere? Stylish, relaxed, and very San Telmo.

Address: Bolívar 938 in San Telmo
Make a reservation at Grapin

#8: Café San Juan

Another classic in San Telmo is restaurant Café San Juan. They have two unique locations in the oldest neighborhood of the city, each with its own character but the same bold spirit. Graffiti, skater-style interiors, loud music, and a menu created by celebrity chef Leandro “Lele” Cristóbal, who became a household name on Argentine TV. This isn’t your typical parrilla; expect creative, flavorful dishes with a nod to local ingredients and European techniques.

What sets Café San Juan apart? Years of experience, a loyal local following, and a no-nonsense attitude. You’re in the hands of a team that knows what they’re doing—and clearly enjoys it.

TIP: The specials change often, so ask the waiter what’s fresh that day and try the vermouth!

Address: Chile 474 and Av. San Juan 450 in San Telmo.

#9: La Parri

Ok, this one breaks out of the traditional restaurant mold. Meet “La Parri”, a choripanería—that’s the local name for a spot serving Argentina’s take on the hot dog, the beloved choripán. This place oozes local flavor, with students and regulars spilling onto the street, creating a laid-back, authentic vibe.

Open from midday until midnight, it’s your go-to for one of the tastiest choripanes in San Telmo. Juicy sausage, crusty bread, and all the sauces you can dream of.

TIP: Visiting the San Telmo Fair? (More info here) Make a pit stop at La Parri and take a well-earned break with a bite that locals swear by.

#10: El Querandi, El Viejo Almacen and more

No list of restaurants in San Telmo is complete without mentioning the dinner & tango experience. San Telmo is the neighborhood with the highest concentration of tango venues in the city. The concept? You enjoy a 3-course dinner before the show begins. It’s not just about watching tango, it’s about soaking up the full experience. Some of the most iconic spots include El Querandí, El Viejo Almacén, and La Ventana. Be sure to check out the different options on my website.

Essential tips when going out for dinner

• Late dinner hours
  Don’t be surprised if restaurants are empty at 19:00 (07:00 PM). Locals usually head out for dinner around 21:00 (09:00 PM) or even later. Prime time is between 9:30 PM and 10:30 PM, even on weekdays.
• Tipping etiquette
  Tipping isn’t mandatory but definitely appreciated. A standard tip is 10% in cash, even if you paid for the meal by card. Most restaurants will give you the option to add a tip on the card.
• Cash is king
  While many places accept cards, some smaller restaurants or parrillas might prefer cash. Also, paying in cash (pesos) can sometimes get you a small discount, especially if you ask politely.