Breakfast in Buenos Aires: A Guide for Expats
Breakfast culture in Buenos Aires differs significantly from what many expats are accustomed to, particularly those from North America or Northern Europe.
Understanding local customs and knowing where to find your preferred style of breakfast will help you settle into porteño life.
Traditional Argentine Breakfast
A typical Argentine breakfast is simple and light compared to Anglo-Saxon traditions.
Locals usually have café con leche (coffee with milk) paired with medialunas (small croissants, either sweet or savory), toast with butter and jam, or facturas (pastries).
This breakfast is eaten quickly, often standing at a café counter, and is much smaller than the hearty breakfasts common in the U.S. or U.K.
Finding International-Style Breakfast
Expats craving eggs, bacon, pancakes, or full English breakfasts should head to Palermo, particularly Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood.
This neighborhood has embraced brunch culture and offers numerous cafés serving international breakfast options. Popular spots feature avocado toast, smoothie bowls, eggs Benedict, and American-style pancakes.
Best Brunch in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires has fully embraced brunch culture in recent years, with weekend brunch becoming increasingly popular among younger porteños and expats alike.
Reservations are recommended for popular brunch spots, especially on Sundays.
Practical Tips
- Learn key phrases: “Desayuno” (breakfast), “Tostadas” (toast), “Huevos revueltos” (scrambled eggs)
- Hotel breakfasts often include buffet-style international options
- Coffee in Argentina is typically strong espresso-style; specify if you want “café americano”
- Many cafés don’t serve food before 8:30 AM
- Weekend brunch spots fill up quickly – arrive early or book ahead