I like to eat out. Like, a lot. Perhaps that’s why I was deemed with the job of food blogger (I won’t say food critic because I like just about everything, within reason). During my time in Buenos Aires, I have eaten a lifetime supply of pizza and empanadas to satisfy my hunger pangs and shallow pockets, but in order to please my taste buds I need to venture into more “ethnically” indulgent cuisine. *In this case, we will take “ethnic” to mean something that is culturally different from the ordinary here in Argentina. In a typical week, I can be found eating Mexican, Venezuelan, Indian, Arabic, Chinese, and Japanese food. For now, I will start our adventure with the continent of Latin America.
1. Mexican – La Fabrica del Taco (Palermo Soho)
– Pluses: Spicy sauces (try “Pa’ los que se atreve” if you are really daring!), Cheap dishes, Good drinks (Happy hour – 2×1 Margaritas! Also try the Horchata – sweet rice milk)
– Atmosphere: Casual, laid-back bar style, great decorations (think “Nacho Libre”)
– Do not recommend the fried cheese – basically just burned, crispy cheese .
– Highly recommend the baked potato with cheese and chicken – you may think this is not Mexican, but you won’t want to miss it!
2. Venezuelan – Caracas Bar (Palermo Soho)
– Pluses: Traditional and authentic dishes, Venezuelan Rum (Get the 12 peso Cuba Libre at Happy Hour)
– Atmosphere: Beautiful terrace with comfortable seating, two bars and a DJ
– Downfall : The mural on the back wall downstairs is of Puerto Madero! Also, do not come expecting much spice – and make sure to check their hours (they open late!)
– Recommended dishes: Start with Tequeños (breaded cheese sticks), followed by Arepas (cornmeal patties sliced in half and stuffed with meat, cheese, plantains, black beans and/or avocado – for authenticity try the Pabellon). For vegetarians, try Tostones (plantains served with guacamole and white cheese).
3. Peruvian – Ceviche (Palermo Hollywood)
– Pluses: Lots of options from traditional ceviche (citrus-marinated seafood) to Japanese sushi and other Asian dishes
– Atmosphere: Elegant dining area and outdoor seating in the back – however, every time I’ve gone the restaurant has been nearly empty.
– Good to know: Meals are fairly high priced, but they can be very big – ask the waiter for their judgment on size. It might be advisable to share and try multiple dishes!
– Recommendations (feel free to venture elsewhere on the huge menu, I still have a lot left to try!): Chicken curry spring rolls, Seafood Rice (similar to Spain’s Paella – a massive serving), and Sushi (combo’s are ordinary – order some unique rolls with friends such as “Green Forest” with sundried tomatoes, basil and mint toppings)
I hope you will come back for some more good eats – I mean reads – in the future!
