My Whirlwind Adventure in Buenos Aires
4.5 Days in Buenos Aires, Argentina
My recent trip to Buenos Aires, though cut short to just 4 and a half days due to a family emergency, was nothing short of a sensory delight. From the tantalizing tastes of local cuisine to the vibrant culture that enveloped every corner, Buenos Aires left a lasting impression on my heart. I managed to pack a lot into my brief stay, and I can't wait to share the highlights with my fellow travel enthusiasts and foodies.
Day 1: A Culinary Welcome
My adventure began with a delightful lunch at La Baita, a charming Italian spot with a lovely outdoor patio. The salmon and caper appetizer and the bucatini alla puttanesca were both generous and delicious, leaving me with enough leftovers for the next day.
The restaurant hit a personal chord with me. The name was actually La Baita di Guido. Guido was my grandfather's name and La Baita in Italian translates to "the cabin" or "the lodge" or I'm told more accurately it means "the gathering place. I got actual chills because my grandfather was known for his gathering place and the dinners he would make for people there on the family ranch.
For dinner, I joined a lively group of travelers at Marti, a Michelin guide-recommended vegetarian restaurant. The company and food made for an unforgettable evening.
Day 2: Discovering Local Flavors and Friendships
On my second day, exploration began with a much-needed cappuccino, water, and Wi-Fi stop as I wandered the streets of Palermo. This was followed up with a scoop of helado (their answer to Italian gelato and every bit as wonderful!) for lunch before exchanging dollars for pesos at a local money exchange office.
That evening, I had the pleasure of meeting a new friend from Kansas City through an Argentina Travel Tips group on Facebook. Following a glass of Argentine wine while watching a group tango lesson, we met up for a fun tango show. The show took us through the history of Tango as we watched the costumes and dance moves evolve. Dinner was provided if you opted for the dinner package. My ticket included an appetizer or a dessert, water, and wine.
*Support my blog and adventures. If you choose to purchase an experience from the links below or within the article, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Day 3: Exploring Recoleta
My travel friend and I explored the bustling market in the Recoleta neighborhood, where I purchased some gifts for my nieces and a couple of mementos for myself. Lunch was a feast at a recommended spot, with chicken Milanese and spinach taking center stage for me and she went for a steak. We shared tastes of each other's meals, savoring every bite. We parted ways so that she could pack for her early departure the next day and my day concluded with a visit to the famed bookstore, a stroll past ornate Recoleta architecture, and later, a pairing of empanadas and local beer.
Day 4: Historical Insights and More Culinary Delights
The Immigration Museum provided a poignant glimpse into the dreams of past immigrants, who once gazed through the windows of the building at what is now the Buenos Aires skyline with hope for their future. A brunch at Antoinetta Coffee followed, where I indulged in a pistachio custard-filled croissant and flat white amidst a delightful vibe.
Returning to Recoleta Market, I later admired the Obelisk and Teatro Colón before treating myself to a choripán at El Sanguanino. The evening ended with gelato, Torrontés wine, and an adventurous dining experience at Cochinchina, where the menu featured Vietnamese dishes, and other eclectic foods and cocktails.
Day 5: The Vibrant Tapestry of La Boca
Before catching my flight out, I explored the colorful neighborhood of La Boca, a feast for the senses with its vivid hues, delightful aromas, and lively sounds. Even the rain added a refreshing touch to the experience. I enjoyed a cappuccino, a medialuna, and a mini tarta de verduras before indulging in delicious choripán with sweet red wine. La Boca's vibrant spirit and rich history were the perfect send-off as my whirlwind visit drew to a close.
Though my time in Buenos Aires was brief, it was filled with rich experiences and delicious flavors. I'm eager to return and explore even more of what this beautiful city has to offer. Until next time, Buenos Aires—save some empanadas and wine for me!
After some time in Napa. California with family and friends, I was off to spend a month in Milan. But I will definitely return to Argentina and spend more time in Buenos Aires and see more of this beautiful country.