Food and Shopping in Argentina
Food is a central part of daily life in Argentina. It reflects the country’s geography, its mix of traditions, and the way people spend time together. On a Finest Journeys tour, you’ll see this in different ways depending on where you are. It might be a quiet lunch in a rural town or a long dinner in a city restaurant.
In Buenos Aires and Mendoza, people take their time over grilled meats, homemade pasta, and good wine. Cafés are part of the routine too. Locals often stop for a coffee and a pastry, sitting for a while to talk or watch the world go by. Outside the cities, the food feels more tied to the land. In Patagonia, lamb is cooked slowly over a fire. In the northwest, corn-based stews and roasted vegetables are common. In San Antonio de Areco, gaucho-style cooking is still part of daily life.
Shopping in Argentina isn’t rushed. It often happens in small stores, markets, or workshops. In Buenos Aires, you’ll find leather bags, books, art, and handmade shoes. Mendoza’s markets are full of wine, local herbs, and preserves. In places like El Calafate or Iguazú, artisans make textiles and silver pieces using traditional methods. Each place offers something that reflects the region.
What you bring home might be something you wear, something you cook with, or something that reminds you of a moment. Your guide will help you find places that feel local and genuine. It’s less about collecting things, and more about understanding the country through its food and craft.
Recommended Tours in Argentina
Opening Hours in Argentina
Shops in Argentina generally open around 9 or 10 in the morning and close by 7 or 8 in the evening. Many businesses, especially outside the main cities, take a midday break. On weekends, hours can vary, with some stores open Saturday morning and closed Sunday. Markets often operate in the mornings and close by early afternoon.
Dining Hours in Argentina
Meals in Argentina follow a later schedule. Lunch is typically served between 1 and 3 in the afternoon, and dinner often begins around 8 or 9 in the evening. In more traditional or rural areas, meals may be earlier. Cafés and bakeries are open throughout the day for coffee and snacks, and many restaurants stay open well into the night.
Paying in Argentina
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas. Smaller towns, markets, and family-run shops may prefer cash. It’s helpful to carry some pesos in small bills, especially when tipping or paying for transport. ATMs are available in most urban centers, though fees and withdrawal limits can vary depending on your bank.
Tax Free Shopping in Argentina
Non-residents can request a VAT refund on eligible purchases made in registered stores. Look for shops displaying the “Tax Free” sign. To qualify, keep your receipts and request a refund form at the time of purchase. Refunds are processed at customs desks in major airports before your international departure.
What to Buy in Argentina
When you are shopping in Argentina you’ll find an abundance of items that make meaningful souvenirs and gifts, blending craftsmanship, tradition, and local flavors. Leather goods are among the most sought-after purchases; the country is known for producing high-quality leather jackets, handbags, wallets, and belts, often at more affordable prices than in many other countries. Another classic choice is the alpargata, the comfortable canvas shoe worn for everyday use.
Textiles and woven goods, especially ponchos, rugs, and blankets from the northwest provinces, showcase indigenous designs and natural fibers such as llama or alpaca wool. In rural towns like El Calafate or San Antonio de Areco, you’ll also find handwoven blankets, woolen shawls, and ceramics, often made using techniques passed down through generations.
If you are after edible treats, dulce de leche is a sweet staple you can take home, while Bariloche is famous for its artisan chocolate, with family-run shops offering handmade creations and tastings. For drink specialties, yerba mate is an essential buy. Pair the tea leaves with a mate gourd and bombilla for the full experience. Mendoza’s Malbec wines are internationally celebrated and make an excellent gift.
Local markets and specialty shops across Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Patagonia, and the Andes offer authentic finds, making shopping in Argentina a cultural experience in itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to make dining reservations in Argentina?
In major cities like Buenos Aires and Mendoza, reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially during weekends or holidays. In smaller towns, many places welcome walk-ins, though your guide can help book ahead if needed.
Is vegetarian or special diet food available?
Yes. While Argentina is known for its beef, most restaurants offer vegetarian options, and many can accommodate dietary needs like gluten-free or dairy-free. Let your guide know in advance and they’ll help you find suitable places to eat.
Can I bring wine or food products home with me?
Wine and packaged goods like dulce de leche or artisanal chocolate are popular souvenirs, and many travelers choose to bring some home. Just check your home country’s customs regulations to confirm what is allowed.
Is haggling common in markets?
Prices are usually fixed in shops, but in open-air artisan markets, some light negotiation is accepted. It’s always best to be polite and respectful. Your guide can assist if you’re unsure.
Our local expert in Argentina
How Finest Journeys Enhances Your Food and Shopping Experience in Argentina
Traveling with Finest Journeys means you experience Argentina’s food and shopping with insight and ease. Your guide knows where to find quality local products, family-run restaurants, and trusted artisans. We take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying each meal, market, and moment. It’s a relaxed, thoughtful way to connect with the places you visit.