One can only eat so many empanadas for so many days before the cravings for something spicy and something different starts to set in. At first glance it may seem like Buenos Aires only offers more or less two options for food: meat or carbs. However, that´s not the case at all. In fact, the gastronomic scene in Buenos Aires is quite diverse, with many options including something that will finally satisfy your craving for spicy food. In order to find these places one has to venture away from the typical Argentine eateries, away from the parillas, and into the varied ethnic neighborhoods that exist throughout the city. Below are a few of my personal favorite places to spice things up a bit.
Mongolian BBQ:
Av. Leandro Alem 674
Located just around the corner from the Expanish office, this hole in the wall place makes it easy for you to get your stir-fry fix – without breaking the bank. Mongolian BBQ offers an array of fresh vegetables, various meats, different types of noodles, and many sauces in order to create a unique combination for your lunch/dinner.
This is a great place to go if you´re looking for something quick and delicious, as well as fresh.
Bonus: Watch your food be made right in front of you on the huge wok.
NOLA:
Gorriti 4389
Craving some homemade New Orleans grub? Look no further than this hip and delicious spot just outside the heart of Palermo. The best part is not only the flavoring and spices that are sure to remind you of your favorite haunt in New Orleans, but the side sauces that come with an added kick of spice.
Bonus: Look out for special pop-up chef events on their Facebook page and go for happy hour to enjoy tasting different types of food and drink.
CHOCHAN:
Piedras 672
This pork only restaurant located in San Telmo is a must do. Think you´ve tried real pulled pork? ChoChan´s sweet and spicy sauce with homemade coleslaw might change your mind. Be extra adventurous and try the pork heart sandwich for your meal or blood sausage poppers for an appetizer.
Bonus: Six different sauces with varying levels of spice that somehow all seem to mix together in the most delicious way.
Cocina Sunae
Direction confirmed in reservation email
Reservation required
This puerta cerrada (or closed door restaurant) is one for the books. With a cozy home setting and friendly staff, this closed door instantly makes you feel at home. Their chef has created a constantly changing set menu that never disappoints. Cocina Sunae is influenced by South East Asian cuisine, with dishes from all over. If you´re missing a taste of Asia this is a delicious (and not too spendy) night out.
Bonus: Homemade Siracha. Need I say more?
Chan Chan
Hipólito Yrigoyen 1390
This hole in the wall place has made a name for itself by cooking up delicious and authentic Peruvian food. Don´t miss the fresh ceviche with a tangy marinade, as well and many other dishes straight from Peru.
Bonus: Each meal starts with bread and homemade spicy sauce to dip.
Green Curry
Tucumán 271
Located in the center of Buenos Aires, Green Curry has become a hub for the working population to grab a quick and delicious bite to eat. They offer curry specials of the day with surprisingly yummy sauces and scrumptious meats (or vegetarian options if that´s what you prefer).
Bonus: Side sauces to pour over the curry come in a variety of spicy options – and their hottest actually leaves a little burn.
Desmashk
Charcas 3816
Missing good hummus and soft pita? This little place offers it all, and serves up a delicious baba ganoush (eggplant hummus) as well. With next to no indoor seating try to come on a nice day in order to enjoy the outside tables. This authentic Arab food won´t kill your bank account either, but it will leave you wanting to come back.
Bonus: Delicious spiced meat sliced off right in front of you and extra pita on the side.
