Buenos Aires, the bustling capital of Argentina, is a city synonymous with tango, football and mouthwatering food. Among its plethora of culinary treasures, empanadas hold a special place. These delicious pastries, stuffed with savoury fillings, are a staple of Argentine cuisine and a must-try for anyone visiting the city. Whether baked (“al horno”) or fried (“fritas”), empanadas come in a wide range of flavours and styles, each showcasing regional and personal twists. Here’s a guide to the best places to find empanadas in the city of Buenos Aires.
La Cocina
Located in the Recoleta neighbourhood, La Cocina is a small but beloved spot specializing in Northern Argentine-style empanadas. Known for their flaky crusts and tasty fillings, La Cocina offers classics like carne (beef) and humita (sweet corn), as well as regional variations like spicy beef. Their baked empanadas are perfect for those seeking a traditional taste, and the cozy atmosphere adds to the experience.
El Sanjuanino
Another Recoleta staple, El Sanjuanino is a traditional tavern-style restaurant offering some of the best empanadas in the city. The house specialty is the empanada salteña, inspired by the northwestern province of Salta. Expect juicy beef filling with a hint of spice, wrapped in a perfectly baked crust. Pair your empanadas with a glass of Malbec for a true Argentine experience.
La Querencia
With multiple locations across Buenos Aires, La Querencia is known for its rustic décor and authentic flavours. Their empanadas are a highlight of the menu, offering traditional fillings like chicken, beef, and ham with cheese. Their empanada de carne picante (spicy beef) is especially popular and showcases the bold taste of Northern Argentina.
Canta el Gallo
Located in the trendy Palermo neighbourhood, Canta el Gallo is a favourite for both locals and tourists. Their empanadas are baked to golden perfection and come with a variety of fillings, from classic beef to more inventive options like spinach and ricotta. The restaurant also offers an excellent selection of wines, making it a great spot for a relaxed evening out.
Pizzería Guerrin
While Guerrin is best known for its iconic Argentine pizza and stand-up counters for eating on the fly, its empanadas are noteworthy as well. Located on Avenida Corrientes, this bustling pizzería serves empanadas with a delightfully crispy crust and hearty fillings. Perfect for a quick bite while exploring the city’s theatre district, Guerrin’s empanadas are as satisfying as they are convenient.
La Empanada de mi Vida
For a modern twist on the traditional empanada, visit La Empanada de mi Vida in Palermo. This contemporary eatery offers gourmet empanadas with creative fillings, such as blue cheese and caramelized onions or Caprese. Their innovative approach to this classic dish has earned them a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
Ña Serapia
Ña Serapia, located in Palermo Chico, is a small, unassuming spot that’s big on flavour. Known for their empanadas tucumanas, which hail from the Tucumán province, this restaurant focuses on simplicity and authenticity. The beef empanadas, seasoned with cumin and a touch of paprika, are a particular standout.
Tips for Enjoying Empanadas in Buenos Aires
- Know your fillings: Traditional options include carne (beef), pollo (chicken), jamón y queso (ham and cheese), and humita (sweet corn). Some places also offer vegetarian or gourmet varieties.
- Pay attention to the fold: In Argentina, the way an empanada is folded often provides a clue as to its filling. Ask the staff if you’re unsure.
- Order a baker’s dozen: Empanadas are often sold by the dozen (“una docena”), making them perfect for sharing with friends or taking on a picnic.
- Try both baked and fried: Both methods offer distinct textures and flavours, so make sure to try both if you get the chance.
Empanadas are more than just a quick bite to keep the residents of Buenos Aires going throughout the day; they’re a cultural experience that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Argentina. And whether you prefer traditional recipes or modern twists, Buenos Aires has an empanada for every palate. ¡Buen provecho!
