San Telmo Food Guide: Where to Eat in San Telmo, Buenos Aires?

13 top places to eat in San Telmo, Buenos Aires

1. San Telmo Market

Visiting the San Telmo market is one of the most popular things to do in San Telmo. As you can imagine, it is a real tourist hotspot, however, it doesn’t mean that you will get low-quality food. Especially if you know the right spots within the market.

I was a frequent visitor to the market, and here are some of my favorite places that I wholeheartedly recommend:

• Hierro Parrilla San Telmo for grilled meat
• La Choripanería for a sandwich with sausage
• The Market Burger for a hamburger
• EL Hornero de San Telmo for some empanadas
• Merci for a sweet dessert

I have to say that the food prices are slightly above average and probably not suitable for budget travelers. But this is one of the experiences in Buenos Aires that you don’t want to miss. Especially if you want to enjoy the lively vibes of Argentina.

Beyond the food, the market is also a great place to shop for antiques and souvenirs. You might find vintage football memorabilia, pop culture items, or other unique treasures to take home.

Its architecture combines Italian and Spanish influences, giving the market and its surroundings a charming bohemian vibe. The façade features a classic Italian design, while the iron interiors resemble the markets found in cities like Barcelona.

💡 Just a quick tip: most food stalls close around 5 pm, though some might stay open later on weekends. So it’s best to visit for lunch or an early afternoon bite rather than dinner.

2. Desnivel – one of the best parrillas in San Telmo

Desnivel is one of my favorite San Telmo Buenos Aires restaurants. Located next to the market, it’s a fantastic spot if you’re looking for a proper Argentine steak experience without any fuss.

The restaurant feels super casual and welcoming, and the meat is always great. I’ve had both the bife de chorizo and lomo here, and they were unforgettable. If you’re extra hungry, the provoleta is a great starter to share. melty, salty, and just so good.

I have to say that the meat portions at Desnivel are huge! If you want to try other things on the menu, consider sharing parilla. If you are traveling solo, just stick to one cut and skip the side dish.

They also have a decent list of Argentine wines to choose from, and their flan with dulce de leche is the ideal way to end the meal. It’s simple but exactly what you want after all that meat.

Prices are slightly higher than some other parrillas in the area, but the quality and atmosphere make it worth the extra pesos. Desnivel isn’t fancy, but it delivers every single time.

3. El Remanso

My San Telmo food guide wouldn’t be complete without El Remanso, an amazing local restaurant in San Telmo, Buenos Aires. I’ve visited this restaurant multiple times, and it has never disappointed me. I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do.

I had a bife de chorizo here that was easily one of the juiciest steaks I’ve eaten in Buenos Aires. My boyfriend swears by the asado de tira and entraña, both packed with flavor and grilled to perfection.

If you’re not in the mood for meat (which would be rare in a parrilla, but still!), they also serve homemade pasta dishes. The pumpkin ravioli with butter and sage was a nice surprise. There’s also a solid list of Argentine wines, so you’ll have no trouble finding a good pairing for your meal.

One small heads-up: although Google lists their opening time as 7:30 pm, they sometimes take a bit longer to get going. I’d recommend arriving closer to 8 if you want to avoid waiting around while they prep.

For the quality, location, and portion sizes, the prices are very fair. That’s exactly why I consider El Remanso one of the best budget-friendly restaurants in San Telmo.

4. 1880

Considering that 1880 is located on the border of San Telmo and La Boca, this parilla is often missed by tourists. We actually discovered it thanks to our landlord, and honestly, it’s one of those hidden food gems in San Telmo that feels like a true local find.

The vibe is charmingly old-school, with vintage posters on the walls that give it the feel of a classic bar notable. But the real star here is the meat. In fact, I have included it on the list of the best steakhouses in Buenos Aires.

I loved the ojo de bife, but the bife de lomo was just as impressive. Their provoleta and homemade chimichurri tie everything together for that perfect Argentine steakhouse experience.

The service is warm and welcoming. After just two visits, they already treated us like regulars. And considering the quality of the meat and the location, the prices are surprisingly fair. It’s the kind of place you end up returning to, even if you weren’t planning to.

5. Casa Telma

If you’re in the mood for a stylish brunch & coffee break, Casa Telma is the place to go! Just a stone’s throw from the famous San Telmo Market, this café has become a popular hotspot, so you might need a bit of patience to snag a table.

The vibe at Casa Telma is cozy and Instagram-worthy, making it a perfect spot to unwind or even get some work done. They offer a range of snacks all day, daily-made main dishes, and a fantastic selection of hot and cold drinks.

Got a sweet tooth? Then Casa Telma should definitely be on your radar. Whether you’re craving traditional alfajores, dulce de leche treats, cheesecakes, or brownies, they’ve got you covered. And the best part? There’s always something new to try each week.

6. Nica Mercado – coffee house in San Telmo

Nica Mercado is hands down one of the coolest espresso bars in Buenos Aires and definitely one of the top spots for brunch in San Telmo.

The café’s intimate, cozy vibe makes you feel right at home, while the outdoor tables are perfect for soaking in the lively energy of the neighborhood.

The menu is simple and honest, as they say, but oh-so-delicious. This place is perfect for trying some egg Benedict or maybe one of their signature Milanese. Nica Mercado also offers vegan options, which is not common in Buenos Aires.

If you’re craving an aperitif, or as locals call it, a merienda, Nica Mercado has a great selection of cold drinks, including artisanal beers and ciders.

7. El Federal Bar

Located in the heart of San Telmo, El Federal is one of the most famous historical 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 glass 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.

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.

8. La Poesía

Just like El Federal Bar, La Poesia is part of the Bares Notables of Buenos Aires. Despite its vintage 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 had delicious cold cuts and also had the chance to try their saucy Sorrentino, which could be ideal for dinner or lunch too.

9. El Gauchito – San Telmo empanadas spot

El Gauchito is hands down one of the most popular empanada spots in San Telmo, and for good reason. Keep in mind that empanadas are one of the best Argentine dishes to try in Buenos Aires.

The place is tiny, with just a few seats inside and outside. But it deserves a spot in any San Telmo food guide, no question. Despite its small size, El Gauchito has a lot of personality, with stylish and picturesque decorations that give it a unique vibe.

During my three months in Argentina, I can confidently say that these empanadas rank among the best I’ve had in the capital. They’re made in the “northern style,” and they remind me of the ones I had in Salta. You can choose between fried and baked, and both options are fantastic.

In addition to empanadas, they offer other snacks and specialties like locro and sandwiches, all of which pair perfectly with a fresh local beer or wine. Plus, it’s a super great, budget-friendly restaurant in San Telmo.

10. Nonna San Telmo

Nonna San Telmo is the perfect spot for a sweet break in the heart of San Telmo. Located at the corner of Chile and Bolívar, this café is ideal for an aesthetic pause, where you can indulge in a delightful treat.

Inside, the space is colorful and vibrant, offering plenty of photo-worthy moments. There are also tables outside, perfect for soaking in the lively San Telmo atmosphere. The service is incredibly friendly, and the staff is always eager to help you find the perfect choice.

While the daily dishes are great, it’s the sweet selection that truly steals the show here. From delicious ice creams to homemade cakes, there’s an impressive choice of treats to satisfy any craving.

11. Café de las Máscaras

Café de las Máscaras is one of the newer spots in San Telmo, and I’m really glad I found it. It’s tucked away on Balcarce 1024, and the vibe is just right. Relaxed, a bit artsy, and full of charm.

Inside, you’ll find colorful masks, paintings, and vintage-style furniture that gives it a cozy, bohemian feel. But my favorite part is the patio. It has exposed brick, green plants and just the right amount of shade. Perfect for a quiet coffee or a casual lunch.

The menu has a bit of everything. I tried their red fruit cheesecake, and it was delicious. They also have gourmet sandwiches, homemade alfajores, and scones. In the evening, they serve cocktails and platters, so it’s also a good place to hang out later in the day.

If you’re walking around San Telmo and want to take a break somewhere a little different, Café de las Máscaras is a great choice.

12. Dylan. Artesanías Heladas – must try ice cream

Dylan is the best ice cream shop in San Telmo, and honestly, it could easily compete with the gelaterias in Italy. You won’t see those colorful mountains of ice cream piled high with decorations here. Just simple, homemade gelato made with high-quality ingredients.

They offer some creative flavors, and one that really stood out to me was Chocolate Patagónico – a rich mix of chocolate, dulce de leche, Cointreau, and little chocolate-covered bits. They also have all the classics if you’re in the mood for something more traditional.

If you’re craving dessert while exploring San Telmo, Dylan is definitely worth the stop.

13. Atis Bar

I wasn’t sure whether to include Atis Bar in this San Telmo food guide, but in the end, I think it deserves a mention. Before you judge me for recommending a spot with low ratings, hear me out. I wouldn’t go there for a full meal, but it’s honestly one of the prettiest places in San Telmo.

We stopped by for a morning coffee, and I absolutely loved the colonial vibes. The courtyard, the old architecture, and the calm atmosphere made it feel like a little escape from the city. I don’t recommend it for food, but it’s worth a quick stop.