Argentina » Dining in Buenos Aires

The Cafe Tortoni is a coffeehouse located at Avenida de Mayo in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Inaugurated on 1858 by a French immigrant whose surname was Touan, it was named Tortoni after the local in Paris at Boulevard des Italiens where the elite of the Parissiense culture gathered in the 19th century.

Although a collection of international cuisine can be found throughout Buenos Aires, it is the long-established parrilla, a restaurant serving grilled meat. These vary from upscale eateries to local spots. Different cuts of beef are available, as are chicken, sausage, and grilled cheese (provoleta). Meat dishes are generally accompanied by french fries and salad. Many restaurants also serve pasta (often homemade). Don't pass up the rich provoleta (grilled provolone cheese sprinkled with olive oil and oregano) and garlic-soaked grilled red peppers as garnish.

Cafes are a big part of Buenos Aires culture; at tea time. Confiterias are larger cafes offering a wide-ranging menu and a wider selection of food, such as triples, thin sandwiches with ham, cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, olives, and egg-salad variations. Medialunas (croissants) are eaten for breakfast or tea time; stuffed with ham and melted cheese, they are a meal in itself.