Practical Tips for Eating Out
Understanding Argentine Dining Etiquette
Dining in Buenos Aires offers a unique opportunity to dive deeply into Argentine culture, and understanding local etiquette is essential for enhancing this experience. Meals in Argentina are social events, often lasting longer than what visitors might be accustomed to. Argentines cherish the time spent with family and friends over a meal, so don’t be surprised if a dinner lasts several hours.
When dining with Argentines, it's customary to greet everyone at the table with a kiss on the cheek or a handshake. Punctuality is seen as flexible; arriving 15-30 minutes late is generally acceptable in social settings. Once seated, it’s polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and remember to use polite requests when asking for anything.
Toasting is a significant tradition, often marked with a hearty “Salud!” before taking a sip of wine. When it comes to gestures, do refrain from using fingers to point directly; instead, a nod or a verbal cue will suffice.
Navigating Menus and Ordering Like a Local
Menus in Buenos Aires can sometimes be a bit overwhelming with their rich selections, but a little prep can make the experience enjoyable. Many restaurants offer menus primarily in Spanish, so having a basic understanding of key culinary terms can be beneficial. Argentines love their meat, and you’ll find entries like “bife de chorizo” or “milanesa” on many menus.
When ordering, feel free to ask the staff for recommendations. Waitstaff are typically knowledgeable about the menu and can suggest the house specialties or what’s freshest that day. Argentines place great importance on the quality of the ingredients, so focus on the dishes that highlight these.
Sharing a variety of small plates or appetizers, referred to as “picadas,” is popular and allows you to sample several different flavors at once. Don’t hesitate to adjust your order or ask for something specific to your taste – most chefs are happy to accommodate guests' preferences.
Making Reservations and Tipping
In Buenos Aires, popular dining spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak hours. Making reservations in advance is highly recommended and can often be done online or via phone. Be mindful of the local dining hours, as many restaurants open late by international standards, with dinner typically starting around 9 PM or later.
When it comes to tipping, a 10% tip is customary if the service was satisfactory. This is generally given in cash directly to the waiter. Some restaurants may include a service charge on the bill, but it’s not as common – always check the bill to avoid double-tipping.
Understanding these aspects of Argentine dining etiquette, menu navigation, and the reservation process will enhance your culinary experience in Buenos Aires, making it not just a meal but an immersive cultural journey.
