Where Locals Eat Steak

Don Julio and La Cabrera are excellent, but they are expensive, require reservations months in advance, and are filled almost entirely with tourists. If you want a truly authentic, unpretentious "parrilla" experience, check out these local favorites.

Map of authentic Buenos Aires parrillas.

1. Parrilla Peña (Recoleta/Centro)

An old-school classic. There are no fancy decorations here, just incredible cuts of meat, house wine served in penguin-shaped pitchers, and an obligatory complimentary empanada to start.

2. El Desnivel (San Telmo)

A chaotic, loud, and wonderful hole-in-the-wall in San Telmo. Grab a table in the back and order the Bife de Chorizo with a side of provençal fries (garlic and parsley).

3. El Ferroviario (Liniers)

Hidden under the highway near the Vélez stadium, this massive steakhouse is legendary for its giant portions and authentic neighborhood atmosphere. The asado de tira here is unbeatable.

4. Secretito (Palermo)

As the name suggests, it feels like a secret. No sign on the door, this rustic parrilla is always packed with Argentines eating piles of incredibly seasoned meat. Arrive early or prepare to wait.

  • Address: Av. Dorrego 2720, CABA
  • Phone: No public phone (arrive early)
  • Map: View on Google Maps

5. La Choza (Palermo)

A true "parrilla de barrio". Hidden away in the busy streets of Palermo, it offers fair prices and excellent quality. It is where local families gather on Sundays.

6. Gran Parrilla del Plata (San Telmo)

Once an old butcher shop from the 1930s, it maintains its original charm. Known for its melt-in-your-mouth ojo de bife (ribeye).

7. Parrilla 1880 (San Telmo)

Located facing Parque Lezama, this is an unassuming, historic spot serving consistently high-quality steak and excellent achuras (offal) in a very traditional setting.

8. Los Chanchitos (Villa Crespo)

Their original claim to fame might have been pork (as the name suggests) and the porteño dish "pizzanesa", but their classic Argentine steak grill is exceptionally top tier, frequented purely by local groups.

9. Lo de Jesús (Palermo)

Started as a grocery store in 1953 and today it is an excellent steakhouse specializing in dry-aged beef. The perfect balance between proper service and porteño authenticity.

10. El Secreto de Tito (Belgrano)

An underrated favorite in Belgrano with classic waiters and premium cuts that won't break the bank. Excellent chinchulines (intestines) if you are feeling adventurous.