Bariloche Cuisine – Discover the Local Food and Best Restaurants

The cuisine of Bariloche was born from the influence of the first settlers who arrived in the region. As a result, we can see a strong German influence, but adapted to the climate.

So, with the richness of the Patagonian rivers and lakes, an incredible cuisine was born, classic dishes that attract thousands of tourists and delicious pastas.

With this great diversity, everyone from Brazilians to Argentines and Europeans falls in love, makes the most of their stay and savors all the local flavor. Now, come learn more about what you can find around here!

The cuisine of Bariloche

Bariloche is a city in Argentina located in the province of Rio Negro. In other words, right in the Patagonia region, next to the Andes Mountains and right on the shore of the famous Lake Nahuel Huapi.

From this, the cuisine was influenced by the first settlers, of German origin, but mainly by everything that could be found there.

So, plenty of fish, various sauce recipes making use of local herbs, smoked venison and wild boar, Patagonian lamb, and the list goes on.

In this respect, the selection of ingredients allowed a classic regional cuisine to be characterized as “traditional Alpine”, complete with fondues and goulash.

But it is also worth highlighting all the breweries found in the region. As a result, several traditional drinks became part of the culture of Bariloche. Along with this, we have the “picadas argentinas”.

That said, in addition to all the full dishes, it is common to find restaurants specializing in serving small portions of smoked foods, cheeses and more.

In short, the cuisine of Bariloche also includes many tea houses, a true local icon.

However, unlike what some expect, these houses do not serve only hot teas (favorites in the winter). In them you can enjoy pastries, chocolates, sweets, homemade breads and the region’s typical snacks.

Likewise, you will find incredible and popular local jams. Such as cherry and red berry jam.

At the end of the meal, you can also enjoy Bariloche’s artisanal ice creams prepared with fruits found in the forest.

If you are already thinking about traveling, come discover an itinerary that nature lovers will enjoy: 5 unforgettable days in the Alps.

Traditional dishes

Some of the city’s most traditional dishes include Curanto.

Basically, this dish came from the Patagonian influence of the natives, the Indigenous tribes that lived in the forest, especially the Mapuche and Araucanians.

In summary, the dish involves digging a hole in the ground and building a fire in that hole. Then, this fire receives a layer of stones and leaves. Now, you just add the vegetables and meats that will be roasted.

Such as sausages, chicken, pork, lamb, potatoes, carrots, squash stuffed with cheeses, creams, apples, etc.

The curanto is covered with leaves and a damp cloth (over the food), to cook, protect and preserve the temperature.

At the same time, most of the region’s typical dishes involve fish, especially salmon and trout, along with lamb, wild boar and venison.

Most of the time, these dishes are served with a wide variety of sauces, as well as in smoked versions.

What few people know is that the region also has barbecue and pastas (such as noodles and pizzas) as something common.

In the end, with the region’s many artisanal chocolate factories, these sweets became a true delight and passion of locals and tourists.

Take the chance to learn all about the Noche Nórdica tour, a must-see regional special during the winter.

Best restaurants for you to discover

Now that you know more about the cuisine of Bariloche, it is time to discover the restaurants to enjoy these typical regional dishes. Oh, and it is worth saying that there are several options (for every budget). So, do your research and do not be afraid to ask for more information.

El Boliche de Alberto

Considered one of the best places in the city, this restaurant is a must to enjoy the true flavor of traditional cuisine.

Here you will find huge steaks, an excellent selection of fish, the famous mountains of french fries, wines and much more.

Since it has a more classic and super cozy atmosphere, with attractive prices, it is common to face some lines and the place quickly fills up.

To give you an idea, the lamb dish for two people is, on average, AR$ 5057,05. Converting that, at the exchange rate on 10/04/23, it would be around R$ 122.

Location: Calle Villegas, 374

Ato El Fuego in the cuisine of Bariloche

Ato El Fuego is an incredible restaurant, affordable and with generous portions, as well as delicious.

However, the true local charm is the grilled meats, such as the ojo de bife, a super noble and juicy cut. At the same time, the homemade desserts always attract locals and tourists.

To give you an idea, one of the most expensive dishes costs around 600 Argentine pesos. In other words, one of the most affordable on this list. The place has a rustic and very pleasant look. This way, you can recharge your energy.

Location: 20 de Febrero, 451

Familia Weiss

In a visually stunning setting, chalet-style inside a building, Familia Weiss is a family-run and super cozy restaurant, with typical regional dishes and the influence of European immigrants.

Precisely for this reason, here you can enjoy various meat and potato fondues, a smoked platter, Patagonian lamb and more.

So, it is an incredible little corner to relax, eat well, enjoy great value for money and also appreciate all the cultural heritage of the cuisine.

Location: Vice Almirante O’Connor, 8400

Cuisine in Bariloche: La Fonda del Tio

Considered one of the typical and affordable restaurants to enjoy the cuisine of Bariloche, La Fonda del Tio is mostly used by locals. It is almost always packed!

In addition to the more affordable price, the place is full of typical and incredible flavors, hearty dishes and quick options, an advantage for those in a hurry. Not to mention all the pastas.

If you go there, do not miss the milanesa a la napolitana.

Location: Bartolome Mitre, 1130

Finally, take the chance to also check out Butterfly, El Patacón, Las Morillas and Nebbiolo. At the same time, do not miss visiting the chocolate shops Mamuschka, Abuela Goye, Benroth, Tronador Sabores, Rapa Nui, etc.

And to learn everything about the region, do not miss checking out the Fidu blog and learn what to pack, the best tours and much more.