Mendoza: Make An Argentine Asado With A Local & Taste Malbec

Imagine spending an afternoon on a beautiful rooftop terrace in Mendoza, Argentina, helping a local host prepare a traditional asado — the country’s iconic barbecue — while indulging in Malbec, empanadas, and lively conversation. For $89 per person, this 4-hour experience is a perfect way to connect with Argentine culture through food, wine, and storytelling.

What we love most about this tour is how intimate and authentic it feels. You’re not just observing, but actively participating — from building the fire to grilling the meats. Plus, the stunning views of Mendoza’s skyline and surrounding mountains make for a memorable backdrop. That said, it’s worth noting that climbing two flights of stairs to the terrace might be a consideration for some travelers.

Ideal for those who enjoy culinary experiences, social interaction, or simply want a taste of local life, this activity offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who appreciate genuine connections and savor authentic flavors.

Key Points

• Authentic Argentine Experience: Participate in a private, traditional asado prepared by a local host.
• Culinary & Cultural Blend: Enjoy storytelling, tastings of Malbec, and homemade empanadas.
• Stunning Views: Dine on a terrace overlooking Mendoza’s cityscape and mountains.
• All-Inclusive: Food, drinks, sauces, and dessert are included, providing excellent value.
• Interactive & Personal: Small group setting (limited to 5 people) ensures personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• Flexible & Convenient: Located ten minutes walk from the city center, with indoor options if weather turns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Real Flavor of Mendoza: A Deep Dive into the Asado Experience

When you book the Mendoza: Make An Argentine Asado With A Local, you’re signing up for more than just a meal — you’re stepping into a genuine slice of Argentine life. Led by a personable host, this experience emphasizes the communal nature of an asado, which is not just about the food but about sharing stories and laughs over a smoky grill.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The tour begins at a central location, just a short walk from Mendoza’s bustling city center, making it easy to incorporate into your day. Once you arrive, you’ll meet your host, who will welcome you with water, beer, bread, sauces, and a warm smile. The initial moments are spent chatting about asado techniques, wine, and life, helping you feel like you’re catching up with a friend rather than participating in a formal tour.

You’ll then help build and tend the fire, learning how to create the perfect grilling setup — a skill that’s part culinary art, part cultural tradition. As the fire burns low, the host prepares homemade empanadas, and the aroma of seasoned meats begins to fill the air.

The main course features an array of Argentine meats: Morcilla (blood sausage), Chorizo, Pork Matambre, and tender Beef. If you’re lucky, there might be extra surprises, but these staples are what define an authentic asado. All meats are grilled to perfection and served with local Malbec, which the guide will describe as a perfect partner for the flavors in front of you.

The tasting is complemented by homemade empanadas, a classic Argentine starter, and a sweet dessert — often Dulce de Leche-based — that provides a perfect sweet finish. The host often surprises guests with an extra treat, like a special dessert or a shot of Fernet & Coke, a beloved Argentine digestif.

Throughout the experience, you’ll engage in conversational exchanges about wines, Argentine traditions, or life in Mendoza, making the meal feel like a gathering among friends. The small group size enhances this intimacy, allowing you to ask questions and really connect.

The Views & Atmosphere

One of the standout aspects of this experience is the terrace setting, which offers sweeping views of Mendoza’s skyline framed by mountains. Whether the weather is clear or slightly overcast, the scenery adds a scenic charm to the meal that’s hard to match.

In case of rain, the experience transitions indoors to the host’s living room, ensuring your enjoyment isn’t spoiled by weather. The climb up two flights of stairs to the terrace might be a consideration for some, but generally, the effort pays off with the ambiance and views.

How the Experience Feels

From the glowing embers of the fire to the clinking of glasses during the final toast, this activity feels more like a gathering of friends than a formal tour. Guests frequently comment on how much they feel welcomed and how the host makes the atmosphere feel relaxed and genuine. As one reviewer put it, “What a guy! Makes you feel like you have known him for years.”

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The Quality & Value

At $89, this tour offers a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience. You receive drinks, food, sauces, and dessert — all pretty much covered in the price, which makes it a good value for an authentic, multi-hour culture.

The inclusion of a Malbec tasting highlights Mendoza’s renowned wine culture. Guests can expect to learn about different wine types, with the guide often sharing personal insights, making the experience educational as well as delicious.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This activity is perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic food experiences, enjoy engaging conversations, or want a relaxed, intimate introduction to Argentine customs. It’s also great for small groups or couples looking for a more personal and memorable experience. If you value fresh, homemade food and good wine, and are open to a bit of physical activity (climbing stairs, helping with fire), you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Practical Details & Considerations

• Duration: 4 hours, with flexible start times based on availability.
• Price: $89 per person, including food, drinks, and dessert — a fair price for a multi-course, cultural experience.
• Location: Central, ten-minute walk from Mendoza’s main square.
• Weather: Outdoor dining on the terrace is the default, but indoor options are available.
• Group Size: Limited to 5 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to stairs.
• Reservations & Cancellations: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

The Sum Up

For those eager to go beyond the typical wine tasting and enjoy Argentine culture through its cuisine, this asado experience offers warmth, flavor, and genuine connection. It’s a chance to learn cooking techniques, taste authentic meats and Malbec, and enjoy breathtaking views all in one go. The small group and friendly host make it feel like a visit to a friend’s house rather than a tourist trap.

If you’re a curious traveler craving authentic, hands-on experiences, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Mendoza visit. It’s especially suited for those who value quality conversation, good food, and stunning scenery over hurried tours and scripted scripts.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
The standard experience focuses on meats like beef, chorizo, morcilla, and pork. However, you can ask for a veggie option in advance; the tour provider is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions.

How much help will I get with making the asado?
The host is very friendly and will guide you through building the fire, grilling, and even sharing tips. Many guests appreciate the hands-on involvement, feeling like they’re learning rather than just watching.

What’s included in the price?
You get water, beer, sauces, bread, wine, empanada, the asado meats, dessert, and Fernet & Coke. Essentially, a full meal with drinks included.

Can I join if I don’t speak Spanish?
Yes, the tour is offered in English, Spanish, French, and Italian. The host is friendly and eager to share stories, making language less of a barrier.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The experience can be moved indoors to the host’s living room, so your plans won’t be spoiled by rain or cold.

How close is the meeting point to the city center?
Just a ten-minute walk from the main square, making it easy to combine this with other Mendoza activities.

Is this experience good for couples or small groups?
Absolutely. The small group size creates an intimate, friendly environment, perfect for couples or small groups of friends.

This Mendoza asado experience turns a simple meal into a warm cultural exchange, perfect for travelers eager to taste local life in a relaxed, personal setting. You’ll leave with more than just a full stomach — you’ll carry home stories, new skills, and a deeper appreciation for Argentine hospitality and flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby