Buenos Aires’ version of London’s Ottolenghi, Farinelli has two locations, in Palermo and in Recoleta, both perfect for brunch and lunch (but closed for dinner). Food is made fresh with a different menu each day – their passion fruit cheesecake is a must. With a seasonal menu ideal for lunch and brunch, Farinelli offers a selection of salads, sandwiches and daily dishes that revolve around the freshest ingredients. Tuck in at this cute Palermo outpost or take away for a picnic on one of the many surrounding green spaces.

A Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant with two spectacular locations in Puerto Madero and Palermo Viejo. Palermo Viejo is particularly impressive, with a vast terrace perfect for after-dinner drinks. If fruity cocktails are your thing, don’t miss their classic “berry nice” cocktail.

A classic spot for the young cool porteño crowd, Dadá is the ideal place to go with friends and get a feeling for the local scene. Away from the regular tourist circuit, it is a vibrant yet relaxed sidewalk bar; a meeting place in Microcentro. Sometimes a lucky few enjoy an “after-hours closing party”, when bartenders close the curtains and partygoers dance on the bar top.

Incongruously hidden behind a graffitied wall, Tegui is the brainchild of much-lauded Argentine chef, German Martitegui. Inside, elegant interiors take second billing to the food. The 10-course tasting menu includes oysters, deer and seafood. Try the twists on typical local fare, like mate custard and mate soufflé. Admire the contemporary architecture and décor while working your way through the chef’s menu: red tuna and Camembert soufflé are firm favourites. Book in advance.

This closed-door restaurant was started by a couple as the result of a successful supper club, and some say it serves the best food and wine in the whole of Buenos Aires. Go for the tasting menu and let them know if you have any dietary requirements beforehand; they are happy to accommodate. It’s simple fare perfectly done and the atmosphere is fantastic. Be sure to chat to the owners; they are fountains of knowledge and tell wonderful stories.

A typical cantina, this restaurant is considered a landmark in the historic La Boca neighbourhood. It gets extremely busy at lunchtime, so arrive early or make a reservation. Be sure to try their amazing Spanish tortilla.

A classic choice for porteños in the market for Peruvian food, this place serves top-knotch ceviche. Neither pretentious nor overly fashionable, it’s all about the food here. As a result, it’s always rammed with loud groups gathered around sharing plates. If you’re unable to get a table, try El Perlado just next door.

With over 600 varieties of wine, Aldo’s is the perfect spot for oenophiles and jazz aficionados in San Telmo. Unknown to many, Aldo’s is connected by a staircase to the Bepob Jazz Club, where you can have a post-dinner glass of wine accompanied by some smooth melodies.

Located in a beautiful Buenos Aires mansion that is part of the Four Seasons Hotel, this grill has an atmosphere that is unparalleled in the city. Tables are positioned in a secret garden or under a glass roof. Fancy a late night? Be sure to check out the hotel’s Ponyline Bar – one of the best after-office watering holes.

Walking distance from the Colón Theater in the city centre, El Cuartito is a lively pizza spot for the post-theatre crowd. There are both seating and standing (cheaper) options, as well as takeaway if you don’t want to queue. Their cheese and onion “fugazzeta” pizza is legendary.

Housed in a converted mechanic’s garage, this quirky restaurant offers a vegetable-laden escape from the city’s carnivore-dominated menus. Most dishes are cooked in a wood-fire oven and the open kitchen adds to the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the shishito peppers or calamari.

Roughly translating as “lovably crazy,” Mishiguene is fanatic about its produce. Inspired by traditional Jewish cuisine, with influences from Eastern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, the menu is reflective of the global threads that make up the tapestry of Jewish cuisine. Highlights include the pastrami and white salmon.

A casual spot for Cajun food and craft beer, this Palermo haunt serves some of the best fried chicken in Buenos Aires. The New Orleans-inspired menu fuses French, Spanish and Caribbean flavours; typical plates of seafood, pork and rice are flavoured with cayenne pepper and classics include cornbreads and gumbo soup, with a fish or sausage base.

Renowned Argentine chef Francis Mallman’s restaurant in La Boca has limited tables, a set menu, top-notch food and stellar wine. The space is cosy, with an eclectic collector’s charm about it as plates, picture frames and other oddities are displayed in overlapping sequences across walls. The gnocchi and the steak are both sublime.

A great steak and seafood joint in Recoleta, sit at the high bar for an aperitif before heading to your table, where you’ll be surrounded by mostly local clientele. Dark wood and high ceilings making for pleasant surroundings, supplemented by an extensive menu.

One of the capital’s greatest grills, this is an extremely popular spot among locals and there are now several branches around town. Portions are huge so take heed from the waiters’ suggestions and leave room for dessert. Do not miss the chocolate volcano to finish.