The Art of Argentine Helado

Thanks to massive Italian immigration in the 19th and 20th centuries, Argentina takes its ice cream (helado) very seriously. It is a mix between Italian gelato and American ice cream—dense, creamy, and intensely flavorful. The national obsession is, of course, Dulce de Leche.

Map of the best ice cream shops in Buenos Aires

Top 5 Heladerías

1. Cadore

4.7/5 4.5/5

A historic spot on Av. Corrientes. Their Dulce de Leche is consistently voted among the best in the world.

Address: Av. Corrientes 1695, San Nicolás

2. Rapanui

4.8/5 4.5/5

Originally from Patagonia, they are famous for their chocolate-based flavors and "Franui" (chocolate-covered raspberries).

Address: Uruguay 1284, Recoleta (Multiple locations)

3. Freddo

4.2/5 4.0/5

The most famous chain in the country. Reliable, delicious, and located on almost every corner.

Address: Av. Quintana 591, Recoleta (Multiple locations)

4. Lucciano's

4.6/5 4.5/5

Famous for their fun, Instagrammable "ice pops" and high-quality artisanal gelato.

Address: Honduras 4881, Palermo Soho (Multiple locations)

5. Scannapieco

4.7/5 4.5/5

A traditional, family-run parlor in Colegiales offering classic, perfectly executed flavors.

Address: Álvarez Thomas 10, Colegiales

How to Order

Locals rarely order by the scoop. Instead, ice cream is sold by weight (a quarter kilo, half kilo, or a full kilo to share at home). Even if you order a cone (cucurucho), you can usually pick at least two flavors!