Traditional Argentine Food Tour with Optional ‘Empanadas’ Class

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Argentina without spending hours researching or wandering aimlessly, this Traditional Argentine Food Tour in Palermo Soho offers a well-curated look at local specialties. For just $60 per person, you’ll spend about three and a half hours sampling some of the country’s most iconic dishes, paired with fine wines and craft beers, all led by a knowledgeable guide. The tour’s highlight is its combination of street food, restaurant stops, and the option to learn how to make empanadas from scratch.

What we especially appreciate about this experience is how it balances delicious tastings with cultural insight—you’re not just eating, you’re understanding the story behind each dish. The guide’s fluency in English and friendly demeanor make the walk through Palermo Soho lively and informative. Plus, the chance to try Argentinian asado, choripán, and dulce de leche ice cream in one tour makes for a memorable culinary journey.

A potential consideration is that this tour is quite popular, being booked 24 days in advance on average, so early planning is wise. Also, while it’s suitable for most travelers, the tour is not tailored for vegans or those needing gluten-free options, though vegetarian adaptations may be available.

This tour is ideal for food lovers eager to explore local flavors in a lively neighborhood, and those interested in pairing their eating experience with a bit of local wine and beer culture. If you enjoy immersive, relaxed culinary outings that don’t rush through each stop, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Flavors: Taste traditional Argentine dishes like empanadas, asado, and choripán.
• Cultural Insights: Guides share stories behind each dish and drink, enhancing your understanding.
• Flexible Options: Add a hands-on empanadas cooking class for a more interactive experience.
• Wine & Beer Pairings: Enjoy Argentina’s finest Malbecs and craft beers paired with food.
• Neighborhood Setting: Explore Palermo Soho, a vibrant and trendy district full of character.
• Value for Money: For $60, you get multiple tastings, drinks, and a fun, culturally rich experience.

Exploring the Itinerary

Starting Point at Gorriti 4886

The tour kicks off at the group’s meeting point in Palermo Soho, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The first stop is a quick 15-minute visit to sip Vermouth, a classic Argentinian bitter drink that sets the tone for the flavors ahead. This initial taste is a great way to warm up your palate and socialize with your group.

Palermo Soho: Focus on Local Wines and Cheese

Next, the tour combines two stops within this trendy neighborhood. Here, you’ll sample some of Argentina’s top wines—likely Malbec, which Argentina is renowned for—paired with a charcuterie and cheese platter. This part of the tour not only offers delightful bites but also gives you a sense of local wine culture. The guide’s insights into wine pairing highlight the importance of these drinks in Argentine social life.

Street Food: Empanadas

One of the standout moments is tasting empanadas, Argentina’s beloved street-food. A whole 20-minute segment dedicated to these flaky, stuffed pastries allows you to appreciate the variety of fillings—beef, cheese, or maybe spinach—and see why they’re a staple. As one reviewer noted, it’s “the most popular street-food dish,” and the authentic flavors really shine here.

Choripán and Chimichurri

Next, the tour invites you to try Choripán, a simple but addictive chorizo sandwich topped with chimmichurri, the vibrant Argentinian herb sauce. The guide’s enthusiastic explanation of the sauce’s significance and how it elevates the humble sausage makes this stop a highlight. It’s a popular choice among guests, many of whom describe it as “delicious” and “a must-try.”

Main Course: Asado at a Popular Restaurant

The main event is a traditional Argentine steak at a well-known Palermo restaurant. Known for its high-quality beef, Argentina’s asado is more than just dinner—it’s a social event. Here, you’ll witness the art of grilling and enjoy a juicy cut of meat that’s cooked to perfection. The experience offers a window into Argentine culinary customs, where meat is a centerpiece of gatherings.

Sweet Finale: Dulce de Leche Ice Cream

To finish, you’ll indulge in Argentine ice cream, particularly the classic “Cucurucho” cone, with Dulce de leche flavor topping the list of favorites. This light, sugary ending is a perfect way to conclude the tour, and many guests find it rivals some of the best Italian-style helados in the world.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Atmosphere and Guides

Tour guides, like Tomas in a highly praised review, are often described as personable and fluent in English, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Their ability to share stories behind each dish, wine, and drink adds depth to the tasting experience. The group size is intimate, capped at 15 people, which helps foster a friendly environment where questions are encouraged.

Food and Drink Quality

The tour offers more than nine authentic Argentine courses, from street snacks to sit-down dinners. Guests consistently mention the quality of food—particularly the empanadas and steaks—as being top-notch. The wine selection is carefully curated, providing insight into Argentina’s signature Malbecs, while the craft beers add an extra layer of local flavor.

The Itinerary’s Flow

Each stop is timed just right—long enough to enjoy the flavors, but not so long that the pace drags. The tour’s structure ensures a varied experience—starting with light drinks, moving to snacks, and culminating in a hearty main course, then finishing with something sweet. The inclusion of optional activities like the empanadas class can be an excellent way to deepen your understanding of Argentinian cuisine.

Practical Aspects

The tour begins at Gorriti 4886, conveniently located near public transportation, making access straightforward. While hotel pickup isn’t included, the meeting point is easy to find. The price of $60 offers excellent value, considering the variety of food, drinks, and the guided experience. This is a perfect way to sample a broad spectrum of local cuisine without having to plan each stop yourself.

Review Highlights

Guests often praise the knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and informative. Many mention how the wine and food pairings exceeded expectations, elevating simple dishes into memorable moments. The friendly atmosphere and authentic flavors make this tour stand out among other food experiences in Buenos Aires.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers who want to taste genuine Argentine dishes while learning about local customs. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy a mix of street food and restaurant dining, and who appreciate pairing food with local wines and craft beers. If you’re looking for a relaxed, informal way to get a taste of Buenos Aires’ culinary scene, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Travelers with a taste for interactive experiences will love the optional empanadas class, although vegans and gluten-free diners should note these options aren’t included in the standard package.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Buenos Aires, this Traditional Argentine Food Tour in Palermo Soho offers a well-rounded, flavorful introduction to the city’s culinary soul. The combination of authentic dishes, local wines, friendly guides, and a vibrant neighborhood setting makes it a rewarding choice. It provides a genuine taste of Argentina’s most beloved foods—empanadas, chorizo, steak, dulce de leche ice cream—all served in a lively, approachable atmosphere.

If you’re eager to learn about local flavors without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, this tour balances fun, education, and deliciousness. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors wanting a manageable overview of Argentine cuisine, or seasoned travelers looking for a relaxed, social outing. Just remember to book early, as its popularity suggests.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
The tour can be adapted for vegetarians, although the standard menu features meat-heavy dishes like steak and choripán. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand if you have dietary restrictions.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes alcoholic beverages such as wine and craft beers, which are paired with various dishes throughout the experience.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy multiple tastings without feeling rushed.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at Gorriti 4886, a central location in Palermo Soho, near public transportation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size and friendly atmosphere make it easy to meet other travelers and enjoy a social experience.

Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned. It’s suitable for adults and older teens.

Are gluten-free or vegan options available?
Not currently included but check with the provider for possible accommodations. The standard menu does not cater to vegan or gluten-free diets.

By choosing this tour, you’ll discover more than just food—you’ll gain insights into Argentine culture, enjoy quality wines, and leave with a much richer understanding of Buenos Aires’ culinary traditions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie, this experience promises a tasty, fun, and memorable adventure through Palermo Soho.