What Latin city is emerging on the forefront of gourmet dining experiences?
The answer: Buenos Aires. The gigantic European and Latin infused metropolis is quickly becoming not only a top notch travel destination, but also a land of the calling for international “foodies”. The Paris of South America is stepping up its restaurant game and it shows with the dining choices in this amazing city.
Here are ten of Buenos Aires’ top, under-the-radar, delectable dining choices:
Casa Felix
Throughout the world there is a new movement in fine dining – the closed door concept. This private restaurant setting where only a handful of 
people are accepted per night is a booming business in Buenos Aires. Of the edgy gourmet experience, Casa Felix is on the top of the list. An Argentine/South American-fused, five-course menu with aromatic, creative recipes, this supper club is a divine experience at a desirable cost. Casa Felix was created by Diego Felix, an Argentine chef trained throughout the United States and South America, and his American partner, Sanra. It is obvious from the décor to the organic ingredients that their heart and soul is the imagination behind this unique and fun 12 table experience. The doors open Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays at 9:30 pm. A reservation is required due to the limited amount of space.
http://www.diegofelix.com/
Empire Thai
Although Argentina and Buenos Aires are known for their fresh ingredients and succulent steak, spicy, Asian-influenced food is not a commonality. In fact, it was only a few years ago that places that play with hot pepper sauces and coconut milk started to dot the culinary landscape of the tango urban capitol. And Empire Thai is one of the founding fathers. This chic, upscale, cozy experience is decorated with artistic cracked glass wall coverings, oriental designs and romantic lighting. The gay owner, originally hailing from New York City, has put his own flair into the entire show; from the locally grown ingredients to the extensive bar, from the ample portions to the hand-spun DJ music, Empire Thai is a kingdom aiming to please. Reservations are recommended on the weekends.
http://www.empirethai.net/
Katmandu
Katmandu is Buenos Aires’ authentic Indian experience. Using only the best base for its curry sauces, the kitchen offers those passionate about flavorful food a welcoming surprise. The Patagonian lamb marinated in a ginger, yogurt and cardamom sauce is delightful. The light, airy basmati rice and freshly baked Naan bread make for an excellent accompaniment. They also incorporate chicken, fish, prawns and vegetarian plates into their menu. The ambiance is an extension of its name, with hand-carved figurines, exotic art pieces and the scent of Indian spices. They offer live music on Friday evenings. Katmandu is closed on Sundays. Reservations are recommended.
http://www.katmandu.restaurant.com.ar/
Lucumma
For a Peruvian experience with an Argentine flare, Lucumma is a quaint, clean restaurant that explores the palatable pleasures of fish and seafood. With the belief that the basis of Peruvian and Inca food can be found in all culinary art, Lucumma has created a climate replicating the northern South American region. The ceviche is a recommended appetizer. The mango mousse is an excellent, unique dessert. The savory dishes are not especially 
abundant in size but are dressed with market ingredients. As is popular in Latin America, the service is at a relaxed pace, hoping to offer guests the time to truly experience the Incan flavors.
http://www.lucumma.com.ar/
Al Shark
Al Shark is a Middle Eastern experience with Argentine flavor thrown in. A huge restaurant that is able to seat large groups, this open and airy exotic event is more than just a dining experience. Beyond the falafel, tabuli, humus and Argentine empanadas, there is flurry of activity. From a crowd-enchanting band to a mesmerizing belly dancer, the atmosphere is festive and joyful. Al Shark, despite being quiet on the tourist scene, is a magnet for the rich and famous of South America. It is not a common occurrence to rub elbows with the elite in this fun and playful arena (don’t be surprised if the staff persuades you to get out on the dance floor). Reservations are mandatory.
http://www.alshark.com.ar/
California Burrito Company
Although the California Burrito Company might sound like a strange inclusion to this list of under-the-radar restaurants, it is a great dining option for a few reasons. First, unbeknownst to many traveling to South America for the first time, Argentina is not known for their Mexican food. In fact, burritos, tacos and enchiladas are almost impossible to find, but California Burrito Company has made Buenos Aires Argentina’s Mexican champion.
Second, this is possibly one of the tastiest, quickest lunch options available in the metropolis of Porteños (the nickname to all that live in the giant urban dwelling of Buenos Aires). Third, the price can’t be beat. All ingredients are amazingly fresh. Employees make your taco or burrito right in front of you while you tell them what you want. And the different sauces are well flavored with oregano, cilantro and chilies. It is a definite recommendation for those looking for fast, flavorful and well-priced food.
http://www.californiaburritoco.com/
Divina Patagonia
Divina Patagonia has chosen its name well; the dining experience held within its two locations is truly divine. With a menu that exemplifies the truest Patagonian flavors, Divina Patagonia offers a rainbow of savory treats like wild boar marinated in dark beer, empanadas stuffed with Patagonian lamb and fresh trout smothered in a prawn and lemon sauce. The bright, happy ambiance compliments the food nicely. If desserts are your thing, try the Yerba Mate and Orange Crème Bruleé.
http://www.divinapatagonia.com/
Mosoq
Mosoq is an example of why Buenos Aires is becoming a land of the dining fiesta; it is a playground for the senses. The high Andean based-menu sends the taste buds into song with its season-ready market ingredients. Dishes like duck flavored with a chili reduction over Peruvian chili risotto or shrimp skewers served with chutney created from mango and hearts of palm are ideal for the culinary palate. The modern, contemporary interior with its clean-cut design is pleasant on the eyes. The hip music softly swirling throughout the small dining room entices a sexy, wooing atmosphere. The twenty-plus designer martinis add to the romance. Try the Martini de la Plata, Mango Tango or Sex in BA for a fun Argentine twist on an internationally classic cocktail.
http://www.mosoq.com/
Azema Exotic Bistró
For an eclectic dining experience that will leave even the highest demanding foodies feeling satisfied, try Azema Exotic Bistró. The owner and head chef, Paul Jean Azema, traveled for over a decade throughout the Far East, learning the textures, flavors and creations of Asian gastronomy. Upon returning to his native land he produced a lively, eccentric bistro for those that like to enjoy a unique dining experience. His fusion of Asiatic delicacies, tastes of the Indian Ocean’s French Colonies and an Argentine belief in the local market is representation of the best the three cultures have to offer. The Carpaccio of salmon with warm sake or Jumbo-shrimp curry dressed with LÍlle Bourbon spices are both recommended choices.
No website
Address: Angel Carranza 1875, between streets Costa Rica and El Salvador
Telephone: 4774 4191
Open: Monday – Saturday, 8 pm till closing
Thymus
Some locals rave that Thymus is literally the best restaurant in Buenos Aires. And it may just deserve the title. The Buenos Aires province born owner and chef, Fernando Mayoral, began his passionate affair with the culinary arts in 1993. Dancing with the flavors of the United States, Brazil and France, he combined his neo-gastro vision into a delightful, chic open-door restaurant. The duck nestled in a puree of yams and sweet molasses is a luxurious treat for the taste buds. The location is not only attractive but historical as well. Once the home of famous artist Martin Vergara, his daughter Maria now runs the art gallery situated on the roof terrace.
http://www.thymusrestaurant.com.ar/
Buenos Aires is a land of culinary discovery. Whether located in a fancy, mansion-style setting or behind the open doors of the chef’s personal dwelling, the artistic creation of Buenos Aires cuisine is an urban garden of tantalizing flavors. So, while visiting the land of sultry tango, succulent beef and beautiful locals, remember that your choice in dining options is as broad as your imagination.
