Buenos Aires Cafe, Este

Just across the street from Violet Crown’s divey digs and Via 313-gobbling 20-somethings sits Buenos Aires Cafe—an East Austin mainstay that quietly exudes the sensual spirit of the country where tango was born. Sharing is caring, so nosh on Argentine tapas like charred provolone with fresh herbs or house-marinated olives with citrus zest, before moving onto grilled meats drizzled in Buenos Aires’ famous—and very garlicky—chimichurri sauce. Don’t fret about goodnight kisses though, fernet is one of Argentina’s favorite spirits and its aromatic, minty flavor will do the trick. Recently, Chef Reina’s daughter Paola opened Milonga Room, an amaro-heavy speakeasy, in the restaurant’s former basement storage room. It is accessed from the back of the building, is reservation only and the dark, cozy space decked out in velvet-covered, vintage furniture will have you snuggling up to your date in no time.