10 reasons to Visit Buenos Aires

Inspirations

by Paul Theroux | Last updated: 19-07-2024

The allure of Buenos Aires defies succinct characterization. Its art and culinary scenes are as lively as ever, with new spaces popping up daily. Plus, the speakeasy scene is as cool as ever, and the vintage cafés are a great place to people-watch. To claim that Buenos Aires offers something for everyone—if you're prepared to seek it out—is not an exaggeration.

Buenos Aires is a vibrant metropolis that values innovation just as much as tradition; its cultured residents and chic boutiques are reminiscent of Western cities like Milan. The city of Buenos Aires takes great pride in its literary tradition, which includes both contemporary and historical figures such as Silvina Ocampo, Jose Luis Borges, and Samanta Schewblin. This pride is evident in the vibrant bookstores and historical landmarks of the city. The city is also known for its delicious steak, which is always accompanied by a glass of Malbec.

Just in case those weren't enough to make you want to go, I've included a couple more.

01
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Incredible Steak

The parrillada, also known as the mixed grill, is a time-honored custom in Argentina, and premium cuts are abundant (and of outstanding quality). This is one of the reasons why the country takes beef so seriously. It is unreasonable to anticipate that the waiter will simply place a steak knife and sauce on the table and then call it a day when you order the latter. Porteños choose to smother their medium-cooked ojo de bife (rib eye) or vacio (flank steak) with a vibrant salsa criolla, which is a side dish consisting of tomato, onion, and parsley. Additionally, they use chimichurri, a flavorful sauce composed of olive oil, garlic, and parsley, to enhance the flavor of their dish.

02
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El Ateneo Grand Splendid

The Grand Splendid, which is located in the Barrio Norte area and is housed in a theater that is nearly a century old, was transformed into a bookstore at the turn of the millennium and today receives millions of customers on an annual basis. A normal range of books, the most of which are written in Spanish, can be found here. Additionally, there is a coffee shop and live piano music performed on the same stage where the legendary tango performer Carlos Gardel previously performed.

03
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A Strong Cafe Culture

There is no way to travel to Buenos Aires without stopping by at least one of the city's traditional cafes, which are live representations of the city's history as a center for literary expression. The window seats of El Federal, which has been around since 1864, are a great place to people-watch while enjoying a tapas dish. El Federal is a focal point in San Telmo. El Preferido De Palermo, which is located in Palermo, is a grocery store that was formerly a haunt of Jorge Luis Borges, who grew up on the same block. The store is decorated with hanging hams and piles of canned pumpkins, providing an homage to its previous existence as a grocery store.

04
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A Speakeasy Culture

There is more to the bar culture in Buenos Aires than just wine, despite the fact that the majority of people associate the city with Malbec. In order for individuals who are eager to enter a smaller room at Frank's in Palermo Hollywood, they are need to figure out a password. After that, they are able to enter a secret code in a phone booth, which enables them admission to a posh bar where the cocktails are expertly made, despite the fact that they are a little bit expensive. Since there are only a few tables available at Isabel, which is located in the hip neighborhood of Palermo Soho, you should sign up for the guest list.

05
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Boutique Luxury Hotels

There is a plethora of fashionable options available for hip travelers who are looking for something that is superior to what the corporate hotels have to offer. There are eleven rooms at Legado Mítico, which is located in Palermo Soho. These rooms are based after different personalities that are associated with Argentinian culture.

06
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The Tango

When it comes to Argentina's identity, the sensuous dance is just as much a part of the country as goat intestines seasoned with chili (which, by the way, are delightful). Therefore, you should not pass up the opportunity to witness the dance in person. Milongas, also known as dance halls, are a great place to go, but you should make sure to reserve your seats in advance. Our recommendations are La Catedral, a straightforward establishment located close to Amalgro that is an excellent choice for novices, and La Viruta Tango de Solanas in Palermo, where the party continues well into the night.

07
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Next-Generation Coffee

There is no doubt that the majority of the coffee that is served at traditional cafés seems to be trapped in the past. On the other hand, if you are prepared to explore new places, you will be rewarded with tasty and inventive coffee. The former journalist José Vales' homage to Central American coffee may be found at the market of San Telmo, among the vintage toys and spices. Coffee Town is an homage to Central American coffee, and it features beans from Colombia and Brazil, in addition to Vales' own country's production. The Colombian espresso at All Saints Cafe is a delectably robust beverage that can be found in the upmarket neighborhood of Belgrano.

08
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Malbec

It is difficult to believe that there was ever a period of time when wine aficionados did not have Argentina on their radars. However, it has only been in the last ten years or so that it has become one of the most rapidly expanding exporters of wines, particularly Malbec internationally. If you go to Argentina, you should spend at least two or three days in Mendoza, which is the center of the country's wine districts and is located close to the breathtaking Andes Mountains. In the meantime, you should pair your grilled sausage with a glass of red wine; you won't soon come to regret your decision.

09
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Farinelli

The proprietor, Francis Mallmann, was quoted in Food & Wine as saying that this Palermo institution is "one of the most cozy and glamorous cafes in Buenos Aires." In addition to the airy, all-white atmosphere, you will like the seasonal menu, which gives guests the ability to construct their dishes in any way they choose, much like a picnic. On a daily basis, customers have the opportunity to choose from a variety of sandwiches and nutritious salads (for example, quinoa with cherry tomatoes).

010
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World-Class Design

Argentine design is a formidable competitor in the field of modern design, despite the fact that Brazilian Modern may receive all the attention. Feria Puro Diseño Sa continues to be the most prominent design fair in the city, bringing together the most talented individuals from BA. Curators from all over the world have become eager to explore its scene. The exhibition provides a distinguished presentation at establishments such as WantedDesign Manhattan (2024) and the Museum of Modern Art, which in 2024-2025 organised a two-month-long exhibition titled "Destination: Buenos Aires" and invited thirteen prominent artists to participate.

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