Eating Our Way through Argentina

Before we headed to Buenos Aires, we were told by several people who had traveled to Argentina that the food would be wonderful. Even though we enjoyed much sightseeing, musical performances, and artwork, the food tops my list of my favorite travel experiences in Buenos Aires. We enjoyed so many gourmet meals with delightful new flavors, excellent service, and unbelievable pricing. A beef filet that would have cost at least $85 in the U.S. was around $16 including side dishes in Argentina at a high end locale. The time spent with my family around the many tables of restaurants we had the opportunity to try, are moments I treasure.

Our family and brother-in-law in front of Floralis Generica sculpture located in Plaza de las Naciones Unidas. The flower opens and closes with the seasons.

Tamale pie served at El Faro restaurant.

My brother-in-law eating the beef filet sampler at Le Grill.

Although food topped the list for Buenos Aires, there were quite a few other experiences that were very enjoyable as well. Our first big outing once we arrived was an orchestra performance in box seating at the Teatro Colon opera house. What I loved about our experience was the passion of the conductor, the precision of the orchestra, and the history of the beautiful venue. There’s just so much history to the city, and it was fascinating to learn as much as we could in the amount of time we were there. If we had had more time while we were there, it would have been fun to take in the Tango Festival that was going on as well. Tango has a rich cultural history in Argentina, and we saw huge crowds waiting in line to get into the event.

View from our box at Teatro Colon opera house.

It was clear to see that Argentines have a passion for the arts. There was local artwork showcased all over the city, whether it was in the art galleries, or urban art adorning bridges. The history of the country was also spoken through their artwork, some of which we had to the opportunity to take in at the Parque de la Memoria memorial park. Handcrafting was also something that was showcased. We had the chance to shop markets, and watch artisans make their crafts as we perused their wares. I loved how integrated art was in the daily living. A mall that was close to our hotel featured a top floor art gallery where performances could also be put on.

So much amazing artwork integrated into daily living.

A piece from the art gallery at Galerias Pacifico shopping mall and art gallery.

One of many things I found fascinating was the Cemeterio de la Recoleta cemetery, which our tour guide suggested we visit. It is a well frequented stop by many tourists visiting Argentina. It has elaborate tombs containing multiple graves, which have been passed down from generation to generation. Many notable residents’ burials are located at the cemetery including that of Eva Peron. We also learned that many of the structures go down two to three stories, and some families hide their wealth inside.

My daughter looking out the balcony at Casa Rosada where Eva Peron used to give her speeches.

Some other notable places we recommend visiting while in Buenos Aires are: Casa Rosa (Argentina’s version of the White House), Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral, Galerias Pacifico shopping mall and art gallery, and Puerto Madero along Dique River.

Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral

Puerto Madero along Dique River.

Our family is thankful for the time we had in Argentina to learn about their culture, and experience their cuisine. A huge thank you to our tour guides, John and Carla Boyle and Howard Crowston, of www.buenosairestaxis.com for taking the stress out of touring!

Standing outside our hotel, Hilton Buenos Aires, with two of our tour guides.