Buenos Aires has steadily risen as a key player on the global culinary scene, becoming a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. The city's rich culinary heritage, combined with a modern twist on traditional Argentine flavors, has made it a contender alongside international dining hotspots.
One of the most prestigious accolades in the culinary world is the Michelin star, awarded to restaurants that demonstrate exceptional quality and innovation. While Buenos Aires does not yet have a broad collection of Michelin-starred venues, selected restaurants are recognized by the Michelin Guide for their excellence.
In this article, we’ll explore three of the most outstanding restaurants in Buenos Aires, including those awarded Michelin stars and others that have earned a spot on the Michelin Guide's recommendations, like Fogón Asado. Each establishment offers a unique dining experience that highlights the creativity and skill of its chefs, making them a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.
Don Julio - Palermo
Don Julio, located in the trendy neighborhood of Palermo, is not just a steakhouse; it's a benchmark for Argentine asado. Often frequented by high-profile guests like Lionel Messi, it ranks among the top 10 restaurants globally according to a prestigious international publication. The atmosphere at Don Julio is a perfect blend of rustic charm and sophistication, where exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and wooden furniture evoke the essence of Buenos Aires’ rich grilling tradition.
The menu focuses on prime cuts of Argentine beef, carefully sourced and expertly cooked on the grill. Signature dishes include perfectly seared steaks, accompanied by a vast selection of local wines, chosen by sommelier and owner Pablo Rivero.
Don Julio provides a high-end, gourmet grilled meat experience. The dress code leans toward smart casual. Dining here is not just about the food, but about the full Argentine parrilla experience, making it a truly memorable meal. Are you into steakhouses? Don’t miss out our article about it.
About the chefs
Pablo Rivero, who has been the face of Don Julio for over 20 years, is both a chef and a sommelier. His deep expertise in meat handling and argentine gastronomy and pairing wines has made Don Julio a favorite among locals and visitors alike. On the other hand, Guido Tassi, the chef consultant at Don Julio, is 44 years old, 25 of which have been dedicated to gastronomy. He is also one of the owners of El Preferido in Palermo.
More information
- Address: Guatemala 469, Palermo, Buenos Aires.
- Price range: $$$
- Reservations: Due to its popularity, it's essential to book a table in here.
Trescha – Villa Crespo
Trescha offers one of the most avant-garde dining experiences in Buenos Aires. Hidden away in the Villa Crespo neighborhood, this intimate restaurant caters to just 10 diners per sitting, where they embark on a 14-course tasting journey. The atmosphere is futuristic and minimalist, with a test kitchen on the first floor that looks like a science lab, equipped with cutting-edge culinary technology like rotovaporizers and centrifuges.
The 14-course menu is a feast for the senses, featuring dishes that are crystallized, spherified, and fermented, each served on handcrafted ceramic and glass plates designed by local artisans.
Vegetarians and those with gluten sensitivities will find specially curated menus that offer just as much creativity and attention to detail as the standard menu. The precision and artistry of each dish make Trescha a high-end culinary adventure unlike anything else in the city.
About the chef
Tomás Treschanski it's a young prodigy trained at Le Cordon Bleu in London, has worked in internationally acclaimed kitchens before returning to Buenos Aires. His culinary philosophy is centered on breaking boundaries. At Trescha, nothing is off-limits since everything is a food scene for the diner, including tableware.
More information
- Address: Murillo 725, Villa Crespo
- Price range: $$$$
- Reservations: You can book your experience here.
Aramburu - Recoleta
Aramburu, nestled in the upscale Recoleta district, is one of the most prestigious dining room in Buenos Aires, boasting two Michelin stars—the only restaurant in Argentina to achieve this distinction. The restaurant’s sleek and contemporary design, paired with its open kitchen, allows diners to witness firsthand the precision and artistry behind each dish.
The intimate setting of the restaurant, along with its modern art displays and minimalist decor, makes it an ideal spot for a luxurious dining experience. The 19-course tasting menu at Aramburu showcases the best of Argentine ingredients, reimagined through modern techniques and a fine dining lens.
Aramburu’s wine pairings are equally impressive, offering selections from some of Argentina’s best vineyards. For those seeking an elevated dining experience in Buenos Aires, Aramburu is an unforgettable destination.
About the chef
Chef Gonzalo Aramburu, it's trained in Michelin-starred kitchens in Europe and the United States, draws on his vast experience to craft a menu that balances innovation with tradition. From molecular gastronomy elements to inventive takes on classic Argentine flavors, the dishes are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
More information
- Address: Vicente López 1661, Recoleta
- Price range: $$$$
- Reservations: You can make your reservation here.
Buenos Aires best restaurants by the Michelin guide
We all know that Buenos Aires offers some of the finest dining experiences in Latin America, and these restaurants stand at the pinnacle of that culinary landscape. Check out other Michelin distinctions such as tributes to restaurants for their sustainable practices such as Anchoita or their quality-price such as Casa Vigil or other Michelin star-winning restaurants in the province of Mendoza.
These restaurants compare to the world’s best, delivering exceptional quality and creativity that rival Michelin-starred venues in global dining capitals. For those exploring Buenos Aires or locals seeking a special night out, dining at one of these top restaurants is an experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Whether you are indulging in the luxury of a multi-course tasting menu or enjoying a gourmet Argentine asado, these places represent the very best of Buenos Aires’ fine dining scene. So, book your table, dress for the occasion, and prepare for a truly remarkable culinary adventure.