Travel Back in Time: 10 Historical Cafes in Buenos Aires

Looking for the best historical cafés in Buenos Aires? You’re in the right place! I’ve put together a list of the city’s most iconic and charming spots to enjoy coffee with a pinch of Argentina’s rich past.

Buenos Aires is a city of culture, tradition, and elegance, and its café scene perfectly reflects that. Known for its European influences, Buenos Aires is home to many historic cafés where artists, writers, and revolutionaries once gathered.

After exploring these cafés myself, from iconic places to hidden gems, I’ve compiled a guide to the best historical cafés in Buenos Aires. Whether you’re craving a sip of a cortado, a bite of medialuna, or simply want to soak in the history, this list has something for everyone.

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10 best traditional cafés in Buenos Aires

1. Cafe Tortoni

Cafe Tortoni - Best old cafés in Buenos Aires
Cafe Tortoni - Best old cafés in Buenos Aires

Cafe Tortoni is probably the most famous cafe in Buenos Aires. Located in the iconic Avenida De Mayo, this cafe has been open since 1858 and has become a symbol of Buenos Aires since then.

The cafe was founded by a French-Basque immigrant who wanted to pay homage to the famous Tortoni in Paris. The style is deliciously European with particular elements of the Parisian cafes. 

The cafe also has a section with statues dedicated to famous personalities from Buenos Aires like Carlos Gardel, and Jorge Luis Borges who were regular customers at the cafe.

Despite the French style and design, the food and drinks are quintessential Argentinian. Cafe Tortoni is probably the best place where you can try the churros filled with dulce de leche with hot chocolate.

Considering that this is an important historical café in Buenos Aires, I recommend arriving early, ideally around 8 am. Late afternoon is a great alternative as well. Otherwise, you will need to stay in the line for a while.

⏰ Cafe Tortoni is open every day from 8 am to 9 pm.

—> Walking tour: Plaza de Mayo and coffee time at Cafe Tortoni´s
—> Private City Tour Including Café Tortoni in Buenos Aires

2. Confitería Ideal

Travel Back in Time: 10 Historical Cafes in Buenos Aires
Confitería Ideal in Buenos Aires

The beauty of Confitería Ideal makes it one of the must-visit cafés Buenos Aires. Opened in 1912, the cafe is located in Suipacha, a few meters away from the iconic Obelisco, which is one of the top attractions in Buenos Aires.

Confitería Ideal stands out among the Buenos Aires historical coffee shops for its design and delicious sweets. As soon as you step in, you will be greeted by the staff dressed according to the high standards of the place. The space is majestic, and the stained glasses represent a real work of art.

Confitería Ideal is the ideal place to try the famous choco torta or some of the finest pastries in the city. There is a degustation menu that includes mini pastries and an afternoon tea option as well.

⏰ Confitería Ideal is open every day from 7 am to 12 am.

3. Las Violetas

Las Violetas - Traditional cafés Buenos Aires
Famous cafés in Buenos Aires
Las Violetas - Traditional cafés Buenos Aires
The beauty of Las Violetas

Las Violetas was one of the highlights of my trip to Buenos Aires, and I was amazed by how beloved this café is among the locals. Located on Avenida Rivadavia, it sits a bit outside the city center, but it’s absolutely worth the journey.

This is one of the most iconic Buenos Aires cafés, with an elegant 19th-century style. The marble columns, the bronze chandeliers, and the stained glasses give a unique character and personality to Las Violetas.

This café-restaurant is particularly famous for its afternoon tea and sweets (ask for the Maria Callas option!). Unlike similar establishments, it offers surprisingly friendly prices. To top it off, the warm and laid-back service adds a cozy, welcoming touch to the experience.

Whenever you ask around, a lot of locals will say that Las Violetas is the very best historical café in Buenos Aires.

⏰ Las Violetas is open every day from 6 am to 1 am.

4. Café de los Angelitos

Café de los Angelitos - Best old cafés in Buenos Aires
Café de los Angelitos - Best old cafés in Buenos Aires

Café de los Angelitos is hands down one of my favorite historical cafés in Buenos Aires. Café de los Angelitos is not only a beautiful cafe but also a cultural spot where you can try famous cocktails or attend a tango show with a paired dinner.

In its early days, Café de los Angelitos was a gathering spot for writers, poets, and political figures. Legendary figures like Carlos Gardel, the famed tango singer, frequented the café. The photos on the walls tell stories from the past.

It is known for its nightly tango shows. The performances are a tribute to the history of tango, featuring talented dancers, live musicians, and exquisite costumes. The show transports you to the early 20th century when tango was blossoming in Buenos Aires.

⏰ Café de los Angelitos is open every day from 9 am to 7 pm.

5. El Federal Bar

El Federal Bar - Classic cafés in Buenos Aires
Bar Notable
El Federal Bar - Cafés with history in Buenos Aires
El Federal in San Telmo, Buenos Aires

Located in the heart of the San Telmo, El Federal is one of the most famous cafés in Buenos Aires and a symbol of the city. This bar is part of the Bares Notables and dates back to 1864.

The emblematic style of this bar will literally make you travel back in time. The wooden furniture, vintage items, and the bar composed of stained glasses with a clock sitting at the top give El Federal a unique personality. 

The bar is an ideal spot for an aperitif, drinks with friends, or breakfast in the morning. The snacks at El Federal are fantastic, with highlights like the tortilla de papas and the sandwiches. We also enjoyed excellent Fernet and Coca, as well as a refreshing Spritz.

When it comes to the main dishes instead, the cuisine doesn’t live up to the standards. Since we stayed around the corner, we visited El Federal Bar multiple times, and I can safely say that there are better restaurants in the area for lunch and dinner.

⏰ El Federal Bar is open every day from 8 am to 2 am.

Bares Notables are a group of historically and culturally significant bars, cafés, and restaurants in Buenos Aires, officially recognized by the city’s government for their heritage and contribution to the city’s identity.

6. La Poesía

La Poesía - Must-visit cafés Buenos Aires
La Poesía - Must-visit cafés Buenos Aires

Just like El Federal Bar, La Poesia is located in San Telmo, and it is part of the Bares Notables of Buenos Aires. Despite its vintage beautiful style, La Poesia is relatively new as it was opened in 1982.

This café has long been a meeting point for the city’s creative minds, and its name, which translates to “The Poetry,” reflects its connection to art and literature.

Walking into La Poesía feels like stepping into the past. The walls are filled with bookshelves, old photographs, and memorabilia. Wooden furniture and vintage decor make it an inviting space where time seems to slow down.

The menu is pretty similar to El Federal, so once again snacks and cocktails are recommended. I have to say I tried delicious cold cuts dish and also had the chance to try their saucy Sorrentino which could be ideal for dinner or lunch too.

⏰ La Poesia is open every day from 8 am to 2 am.

7. Petit Colon

Petit Colon in Buenos Aires
Petit Colon in Buenos Aires

Tucked just behind the magnificent Teatro Colón, this gem is one of the best old cafés in Buenos Aires. Its proximity to the theater naturally inspires its opera and theater-themed decor, creating a space that feels deeply connected to the city’s cultural heritage.

The timeless charm of the interiors transports you to the elegance of Argentine high society in the early 1900s. Warm wooden accents, majestic columns, luxurious wallpapers, and an exquisite bar create a refined and welcoming atmosphere.

The café’s menu offers a variety of options, from cappuccinos and pastries to more substantial meals. It’s a favored destination for pre- or post-theater refreshments, where guests can enjoy a glass of champagne or a well-crafted cocktail. 

During my visit, I enjoyed delicious medialunas (Argentine croissants) paired with a fragrant cup of tea. However, the highlight was undoubtedly the Panettone, a treat I wholeheartedly recommend.

⏰ Petit Colon is open every day from 7 am to 12 am.

8. Los 36 Billares

Los 36 Billares in Buenos Aires
Café with history in Buenos Aires
Los 36 Billares in Buenos Aires
Empanadas at Los 36 Billares

Los 36 Billares is the most famous pool hall and one of the cafés with history in Buenos Aires. The cafe stands in the Avenida de Mayo, in front of the iconic Palacio Barolo and it can be easily added to your Buenos Aires itinerary.

The heart of Los 36 Billares lies in its basement, which houses what is considered the finest billiards room in the city. Here, you can engage in games of billiards, pool, cards, dice, and dominoes, all within a setting that exudes historical charm. 

Culinary offerings at Los 36 Billares include specialties such as stone-baked pizza and fugazzeta, a traditional Argentine stuffed pizza. I tried their empanadas and I have to say they were exceptional!

They also bake their own medialunas, so if you have a sweet tooth you have to try them.

⏰ Los 36 Billares is open every day from 7 am to 1 am.

9. La Perla

La Perla in Boca, Buenos Aires
La Perla in Boca, Buenos Aires

Let’s head to La Boca to discover La Perla, one of the most iconic cafés in Buenos Aires. Located just steps away from the vibrant El Caminito, this café has been a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s charm since its establishment in 1882. 

Every corner of La Perla seems to whisper stories of its past, and its walls proudly feature a “hall of fame” showcasing photographs of the many famous visitors who have passed through its doors over the years.

The café offers an outdoor seating area where you can soak in the lively atmosphere of La Boca. The colorful buildings, street performers, and lively energy of the neighborhood make it a perfect spot for coffee, snacks, and drinks.

Over the years, La Perla has become increasingly popular with tourists, which has slightly impacted the overall authenticity of the experience. While the quality may vary depending on the visit and food, I found my time there to be very enjoyable.

La Perla remains a must-see destination for those exploring La Boca.

⏰ La Perla is open from 9 am to 6 pm. It is closed on Tuesdays.

10. London City

London City in Buenos Aires
London City in Buenos Aires

In Centro, you’ll find London City, another iconic café in Buenos Aires. Since its opening in 1954, its charming atmosphere has inspired numerous creatives, including the famous novelist Julio Cortázar. You can still spot a statue of Cortázar near the window.

London City is the perfect place to indulge in some of Argentina’s favorite pastries, such as the delectable alfajores or the iconic medialunas. Pair your treat with a cup of tea or espresso, and you’ll experience true moment of history.

⏰ La Perla is open every day from 6 am to 10 pm.

In conclusion…

Travel Back in Time: 10 Historical Cafes in Buenos Aires

This is the end of the best historical cafes in Buenos Aires and I believe you are impatient to tick off most of these iconic places during your trip to Argentina.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

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Travel Back in Time: 10 Historical Cafes in Buenos Aires
Travel Back in Time: 10 Historical Cafes in Buenos Aires

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