Three Places to Take a Break from Steak in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is not exactly known for its fresh greens. Most traditional Argentine restaurants will pile your plate high with steak, fill your glass with Malbec, and toss in some potatoes for good measure. You’d be lucky to get a bit of shredded lettuce on the side for a “salad.” While I’m certainly not knocking red wine and steak, I must admit that sometimes my body longs for something fresh and green. So, if you are feeling a bit sluggish after several days of meat and malbec, I highly recommend trying one of these vegetable-centric restaurants.
Natural Deli
Natural Deli is a tiny organic cafe that doubles as a small health food store. Even the bright, sun-lit dining area is bound to perk you up. Here you will find a variety of perfectly assembled salads, all packed with veggies. Don’t worry; you’ll still get your protein, albeit through lighter foods such as lentils, salmon, and quinoa.
Natural Deli also offers several sandwiches and wraps, all made on fresh, organic bread and piled high with vegetables and lighter fillings such as chicken and eggplant.
If you are really looking for a vitamin-packed meal, you can add one of their signature smoothies or juices, all made fresh to order. The smoothies and juices are not only incredibly delicious, they each serve a purpose, whether it be to detox, energize, or relax you.
On your way out, make sure you grab a freshly baked treat (or three) such as their muffins or cookies. If you live in the area, grab a menu as well, because Natural Deli delivers!
Artemisia
This low-lit restaurant is perfect for a date or a night out with friends. While it is not an all-vegetarian restaurant, it focuses on natural food, making their entire menu much lighter and healthier than the average Argentine restaurant. Their massive salads are excellent for sharing. Try ordering a couple different salads piled high with dried fruits, seeds, and homemade dressing then tasting a little bit of each.
Artemisia also offers a variety of fish and pasta dishes for those of you looking for something lighter than red meat but heavier than salad. Try pairing your meal with some of their freshly baked breads. The bread basket alone is worth the trip.
Top off your meal with some of their freshly squeezed ginger lemonade. A pitcher for the table will truly bring the meal together.
BIO
BIO is a fully vegetarian restaurant in the Palermo Hollywood neighborhood. Their small dining room is often packed, especially during lunchtime. If you can’t sit in, you can browse their organic health food store to take some food home. Their homemade bread is especially delicious.
If you are lucky enough to grab a table, you are in for a very satisfying, meat-free meal. Their menu changes from time to time, but you can always count on a tasty special and some excellent staples.
Their appetizers are surely enough to convince you to stop by for a taste. Try their quinoa spinach cakes with goat cheese or one of their bruschettas.
Some people might think an all-vegetarian restaurant would restrict you to salad, but that is not the case at BIO. While they do have some delicious salads, they also have homemade pastas, spicy curry dishes, and quinoa risottos.
If you have room for dessert, you are in for a treat. BIO has several baked goods made on site such as apple crumble, ginger ice cream, and extra rich brownies.
All of these restaurants were on my favorites list while I was living in Buenos Aires. They may not be the best example of traditional Argentine cuisine, but they are all tasty and veggie-licious.
