Buenos Aires is known worldwide as the ultimate destination for steak lovers. The Argentine capital is famous for its parrillas (steakhouses), where beef is an art form, and the tradition of asado (barbecue) runs deep in the culture. Whether you're looking for a perfectly cooked bife de chorizo or a tender ojo de bife, here are the best places in Buenos Aires to experience the country’s world-renowned beef.
1. Don Julio – Palermo
Don Julio is often regarded as the top steakhouse in Buenos Aires. Located in the trendy Palermo district, this iconic restaurant serves high-quality, grass-fed Argentine beef in a rustic yet elegant atmosphere. Their bife de chorizo (sirloin steak) is a must-try, accompanied by a side of chimichurri and paired with a glass of Malbec from their extensive wine list.
Signature Dish: Bife de Chorizo
Location: Guatemala 4699, Palermo
Website: Don Julio
2. La Cabrera – Palermo
Another Palermo favorite, La Cabrera offers generous portions of top-notch steak. Known for their ojo de bife (ribeye steak), La Cabrera serves their cuts with an array of side dishes that add a unique touch to the meal. Be sure to arrive early or make a reservation, as this popular spot tends to fill up quickly.
Signature Dish: Ojo de Bife
Location: Cabrera 5099, Palermo
Website: La Cabrera
3. Cabaña Las Lilas – Puerto Madero
Located in the upscale Puerto Madero district, Cabaña Las Lilas is known for combining traditional Argentine steak with a fine dining experience. The restaurant owns its own cattle ranch, ensuring the highest quality beef. The bife de lomo (tenderloin) here is exceptionally tender, cooked to perfection over a wood-fired grill.
Signature Dish: Bife de Lomo
Location: Alicia Moreau de Justo 516, Puerto Madero
Website: Cabaña Las Lilas
4. El Pobre Luis – Belgrano
El Pobre Luis is a favorite among locals for its relaxed, no-frills atmosphere and high-quality beef. This Belgrano institution is famous for its provoleta (grilled provolone cheese) and asado de tira (short ribs). The parrilla here is a true celebration of Argentine asado culture.
Signature Dish: Asado de Tira
Location: Arribeños 2393, Belgrano
Website: N/A
5. Santos Manjares – Recoleta
For an authentic steak experience without the high-end prices, Santos Manjares in Recoleta is a hidden gem. This casual restaurant is known for serving mouthwatering entraña (skirt steak) that’s cooked to perfection. The atmosphere is laid-back, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed yet delicious meal.
Signature Dish: Entraña
Location: Paraguay 938, Recoleta
Website: N/A
6. El Mirasol – Recoleta
El Mirasol is a classic Buenos Aires steakhouse that has been serving excellent beef for over 50 years. Their vacío (flank steak) is a standout, and the restaurant’s refined setting makes it ideal for a special evening out. With attentive service and high-quality beef, this is a must-visit for steak enthusiasts.
Signature Dish: Vacío
Location: Av. del Libertador 3883, Recoleta
Website: El Mirasol
7. Parrilla Peña – Balvanera
For a more traditional, neighborhood feel, Parrilla Peña is a local favorite that serves generous portions of expertly grilled beef. Their bife de costilla (T-bone steak) is a popular choice, and the prices are very reasonable. This is the kind of place where locals gather to enjoy a hearty meal in a laid-back setting.
Signature Dish: Bife de Costilla
Location: Rodríguez Peña 682, Balvanera
Website: N/A
8. La Brigada – San Telmo
La Brigada in the historic San Telmo district is known for its impeccable service and tender cuts of beef. The waiters here famously cut the steak with a spoon to demonstrate its tenderness. Their ojo de bife is a crowd favorite, served in a charming, old-world setting.
Signature Dish: Ojo de Bife
Location: Estados Unidos 465, San Telmo
Website: La Brigada
9. Siga La Vaca – Puerto Madero
If you’re looking for an all-you-can-eat steak experience, Siga La Vaca offers unlimited parrilla options in a buffet-style setting. While it may not have the refinement of some of the other steakhouses, it’s a fun and filling way to experience a wide variety of cuts, including chorizo and morcilla (blood sausage).
Signature Dish: All-you-can-eat Asado
Location: Alicia Moreau de Justo 1714, Puerto Madero
Website: Siga La Vaca
10. El Ferroviario – Liniers
Located in the Liniers neighborhood, El Ferroviario is a true hidden gem. This no-frills parrilla is known for serving huge portions of delicious beef at very reasonable prices. The tira de asado (ribs) are some of the best in the city, grilled to perfection over a traditional wood-fired grill.
Signature Dish: Tira de Asado
Location: Av. Reservistas Argentinos 219, Liniers
Website: N/A
Conclusion
Buenos Aires is a haven for steak lovers, offering a diverse range of parrillas that cater to every taste. Whether you’re in search of a high-end dining experience at Cabaña Las Lilas or a more casual meal at Santos Manjares, the city’s steakhouses will leave you craving more. Each restaurant offers its unique take on the art of Argentine asado, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of Argentina’s world-renowned beef culture.
Make sure to add these top steak spots to your Buenos Aires itinerary for a true taste of Argentine tradition.
