Welcome to a tantalizing exploration of Buenos Aires’ vibrant vegan dining scene! Join us on a culinary journey through some of the city’s most unique and delightful eateries, where plant-based cuisine takes center stage in creative and mouthwatering ways. From chic boutique restaurants to cozy corner spots, each establishment offers not just delicious vegan fare but also a distinctive ambiance and culinary philosophy that promises an unforgettable dining experience. Let’s dive into the world of plant-based delights in Buenos Aires!
1. Sacro
Sacro is nestled in the lower levels of the boutique hotel CasaSur in Palermo Hollywood. Its striking white façade with circular perforations creates a contrast and adds luminosity, catching the eye of passersby. The interior is modern and elongated, with a delightful terrace adorned with greenery. Their menu features modern vegetarian dishes designed to be shared and to surprise diners. From enticing snacks like their must-try Dumplings made with kimchi, ginger foam, and cilantro, to delicate dishes like Artichokes with Sicilian caponata, putanesca, corn beetroot, and herbs, and more robust options like Roasted salsify with kale, edamame cream, and hazelnuts, Sacro blends oriental and Latin American flavors while highlighting the world of plants. Don’t miss the chance to pair your meal with one of their creative cocktails for a complete experience!
2. Mudrá
Step into the world of Mudrá, a culinary oasis redefining vegetarian and vegan dining in Argentina. At Mudrá, the goal is not just to offer plant-based alternatives but to create dishes that rival the flavors and sensations of traditional animal protein-based meals. Marcelo Boer, co-owner of Mudrá, emphasizes their unique approach to crafting plant-based delicacies that capture the essence of meat-based dishes. With the expertise of renowned chef Matthew Kenney and the culinary mastery of head chef Astrid Acuña, Mudrá elevates plant-based cuisine through organic, fresh ingredients and a commitment to fostering mindful eating habits. Join us on a journey to discover how Mudrá is leading the charge in revolutionizing conscious dining experiences in Argentina.
3. Let it V
Let it V brings a collaborative gastronomic vision from chefs Daniel Aguirre and executive chef Dante Franco. Each branch offers a unique menu, though some options are consistent across all locations. Their menu shines with shareable plates such as herb-infused hummus (with pickled cucumbers, crispy chickpeas, and marinated roasted tomatoes) or peanut ricotta cake (served with roasted peaches, fresh tomatoes, arugula, and microgreens). Salads take a prominent place on the menu, with the recommended quinoa salad (featuring roasted sweet potatoes, glazed carrots, kale, chestnuts, and herbs). For mains, guests can indulge in a five-spice tofu steak (cooked Chinese-style, grilled on kamado, with sweet chili, avocado, greens, pickles, cashews, and sesame) or sautéed rice (with vegetables, grilled pineapple, fried tofu, spicy pineapple sauce, and toasted peanuts).
4. Donnet
Donnet in Chacarita offers a unique dining experience that transcends mere culinary delight. Nestled in a corner that initially seems like a poultry shop (Pollería), Donnet surprises visitors with its eclectic and kitschy interior, reminiscent of a set from an independent Mexican film. The ambiance is lively, with drawings, illustrations, stickers, candles, and vibrant objects filling the cozy space. The camaraderie among the kitchen staff adds to the gypsy and spontaneous atmosphere of Donnet. Is renowned for serving the best mushrooms one might ever taste, according to the writer’s experience. The “Donnet mushrooms” feature large, flavorful portobello mushrooms seasoned to perfection and served on a slightly sweet and tangy chestnut cream, accompanied by mini seed crackers. The menu at Donnet reflects a healthy rotisserie style, featuring various mushroom dishes, sides, empanadas, knishes, and fainá, alongside organic wine and other beverages. Despite not being an inexpensive spot, Donnet accommodates various budgets, offering main dishes for those feeling generous or a couple of empanadas for budget-conscious diners. The strictly vegan menu is not the defining feature here; rather, it’s the magical ambiance and delicious offerings that make dining at Donnet an unforgettable experience, regardless of dietary preferences.
5.Hierbabuena Vegan
Hierbabuena Vegan in the San Telmo neighborhood offers organic fast food, including vegan burgers made from certified vegetables free from preservatives and additives. Led by chef and owner Diego Sicoli, who also oversees Hierbabuena Restaurante, Hierbabuena OrganicMarket, and Bakery, this establishment provides nutritious, fresh, and high-quality fast food, along with pastry, coffee, and plant-based ice cream. Their menu features 10 varieties of burgers made with organic vegetables, bread made from a blend of “clean” flours, and plant-based cheeses and deli-style toppings.Each burger is a unique flavor combination, such as the Porto Burger (mushroom burger, cashew cheese, truffle mayo, pickled red onion, and organic arugula) or the Le Frenchy Burger (organic soy and beetroot burger, vegan mozzarella, crispy onions, Dijon mustard, organic black garlic aioli, and lettuce) sandwiched between brioche-style buns.
Buenos Aires’ vegan restaurant scene offers a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences, from the innovative dishes at Sacro to the conscious dining philosophy of Mudrá and the eclectic charm of Donnet. These eateries not only cater to vegans but also showcase the city’s culinary creativity and commitment to sustainable dining practices. Whether you’re a vegan or simply curious, these restaurants promise delicious meals and contribute to a more mindful food culture in Buenos Aires.