7 Best Restaurants in Wine Regions, Argentina

L'Obrador

$$ Fodor's choice

Daniel Ancina, his wife Graciela, and a team of cooks will greet you at this typical ranch house, about 20 minutes from town; then they'll fill your wine glass, introduce you to the other guests, and seat you family-style at a long table. Regional cuisine rules; little pots of sauces for spreading on pan casero (homemade bread) line the center of the table and out of the mud-brick oven comes a platter of crisp baked empanadas followed by a protein—goat, lamb, beef, chicken, or chorizo.

Camino Bentos 50, San Rafael, Mendoza, 5600, Argentina
260-460–1347
Known For
  • everything cooked on the spot
  • a warm intro to the local cuisine
  • hard to find, but worth the effort
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues., Reservations essential

La Madeleine

$$ Fodor's choice

There's a friendly atmosphere in this small bistro, which started out as a teahouse until the French owners expanded into Argentine-Franco breakfasts, lunch, dinner, and a wine bar.

La Juanita

$$
This colorful spot is known for its large dishes of warming pasta, succulent local trout, and king-size milanesas. Decor is minimal but service is warm, and there are splendid mountain views.

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La Juntada Pulpería

$$

Serving a buffet of salads and starters followed by a main course straight from the grill, La Juntada updates the classic pulperia (tavern) atmosphere with a good wine list and a fresh lick of paint. Expect typical Argentine fare such as grilled goat kid that's well prepared.

Posada del Jamón

$$

This casual, family-run restaurant has been a staple in the valley for 30 years, serving up pork cooked in every way imaginable. There are also a surprising number of vegetarian options available, and all of the wines offered are from the neighborhood wineries. A little shop on-site sells unique artisanal items, such as hand-knit sweaters, blankets, and artwork.  If you like the place so much you don't want to leave, there are very reasonably priced cabañas for rent behind the restaurant.

Ruta 92, Km 13, Tunuyán, Mendoza, 5600, Argentina
2622-545–314
Known For
  • ham, ham, and more ham
  • roadside dining
  • friendly welcome
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: No dinner

Remolacha

$$

Delicious smells from the outdoor grill lure locals off the streets and into this popular and unpretentious restaurant in the center of town. Saffron-yellow tablecloths throughout brighten the low-ceilinged dining room and add a splash of color to the outdoor patio. A variety of typical dishes—including grilled goat, beef, chicken, and vegetables—are served for lunch and dinner.

Av. J.I. de la Roza 199 Oeste, San Juan, San Juan, 5400, Argentina
264-422–7070
Known For
  • Argentine grill
  • popular with families
  • laid-back service
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted

Restaurante Palito—Club Sirio Libanés

$$

Tiled walls that look straight out of the Middle East mark the entrance to this eatery, which offers top value Lebanese food. Don't be dismayed by the bright lights; just order a bottle of Malbec, head for the table of appetizers, and fill your plate with crab brochettes, pickled eggplant, fresh tomatoes, and sliced tongue. Entrées include pastas, chicken, and beef prepared with a Middle Eastern touch.