Don't be a french fry: here are our favorites in Buenos Aires

Wine bars have been trending for some time now, but not many offer a culinary experience to match. Lardito is a beautiful spot in a refurbished "chorizo house" with various cozy spaces in Chacarita: a long communal table full of fresh flowers inside and a more intimate inner patio lit by candlelight.

Their menu reflects a commitment to offering delicious and unique dishes with hints of Asian cuisine, such as their classic tataki or baos. Their fries are no exception: triple-fried, crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, finished with herb salt and accompanied by beetroot aioli, homemade ketchup, and a house-made green sriracha.

Tip: They also open for lunch on Saturdays, which is the perfect time to enjoy the lovely summer days in their beautiful patio, with vermouth in hand.

Where: Av. Jorge Newbery 3655, Chacarita.

Madre Rojas was a pioneer in offering Wagyu beef on their menu and has established itself as the leading grill for this product in Argentina. Juan Barcos, the owner, runs “Barcos and Sons” with his father, a company that helps develop Wagyu beef in Argentina. The premium fat is used to fry their French fries: first, they confit them in it, and then they give them their final fry in a 70% Wagyu fat and 30% vegetable oil mixture. The result is perfect: a crispy exterior, supported by a very soft interior.

Tip: Using animal fat for frying gives them a much drier finish and imparts a sweet flavor. They’re also a great match for the delicious milanesa!

Where: Rojas 1600, Villa Crespo.

This turquoise corner is the ideal place to sit for lunch and lose track of time, surrounded by '90s Pepsi napkin holders, Condorito magazines, and regulars debating football and politics. Bar Oriente serves classic Argentine comfort food: pastas, milanesa, empanadas, hake fillet, winter soups, and spectacular French fries that are thick, crispy, and creamy with a homely flavor.

Tip: Pair the fries with the chicken supreme! In my opinion, it beats milanesa. Note, they only open on weekdays and Saturdays for lunch!

Where: Av. Álvarez Thomas 1800, Villa Ortúzar.

Among all the recommended French fries, these are undoubtedly the most original, which makes sense because Ácido in Chacarita stands out for its irreverent and disruptive approach. The cuisine at Ácido can’t be categorized under any particular label, as chef-owner Nicolás Tykocki simply follows his curiosity, offering dishes based on what catches his attention.

Also of interest: The best restaurants in Buenos Aires

Their French fries are unique and delicious, made from a base of mashed potatoes and other ingredients, cut into sticks and then fried in plenty of fat. The result is an incredibly creamy interior.

Tip: These fries come with a sirloin steak, which also includes a salad and bone marrow butter. Don't miss the torrija for dessert, it’s divine!

Where: Charlone 999, Chacarita.

Corte Charcutería specializes, as its name suggests, in artisanal charcuterie crafted by César Sagario, a master charcutier who experiments with both traditional and more daring pieces. But aside from the delicious hot dog and unforgettable blood sausage, this Belgrano corner also serves other dishes like milanesa, burgers, or goat stew, and excellent French fries to accompany them. Perfectly fried, they are shaped like elongated sticks with the ideal texture inside and out.

Tip: After eating, stop by their charcuterie shop in the back where you can buy many of the products served in the restaurant.

Where: Echeverría 1290, Belgrano.

Few places attract millennials like this Chacarita corner, where classic and not-so-classic dishes are expertly prepared at reasonable prices. Some have already become classics, like the milanesa sandwich or the spectacular tortilla.

Their fries are prepared with care, sourced from Balcarce or Córdoba depending on the season, and cooked in three stages. As soon as they come out of the fryer, they are finished with a mix of salt, pepper, and spices, served with homemade ketchup for dipping.

Tip: It’s a great spot to go with that friend who isn’t as adventurous with food, as the menu covers dishes of all kinds.

Where: Av. Dorrego 901, Chacarita.

El Preferido was one of the first Buenos Aires restaurants to focus on reviving classic dishes with the best ingredients and techniques, transforming seemingly simple plates into perfect versions. Their artisanal charcuterie, exceptional milanesa, and some of the best ice cream in the country, in collaboration with Guido Tassi, have earned them a solid reputation.

They’ve also perfected their French fries, which are made in three stages and have a puffed texture, almost like soufflé fries. The result is spectacular: a crunchy, brittle crust, and a soft, creamy interior.

Tip: If you go in the summer, in addition to the fries, be sure to try the tomato dish. Trust me, they’re the sweetest and juiciest you’ll ever taste.

Where: Jorge Luis Borges 2108, Palermo.

Coronado just opened recently, but their French fries have quickly become famous. Chef Martín Lukesch focuses on achieving the perfect texture by selecting potatoes from regions where they are harvested best each season, like San Luis, Mendoza, Tucumán, or Balcarce.

Also of interest: The best places in the city for afternoon tea

Their technique is key: first, they steam the potatoes, then dry-roast them, and finally fry them in oil to order, ensuring a perfect result. You can get them at any time, and they also work great as a side for their burgers.

Tip: Located next to the MALBA, the restaurant is open all day, so you can go for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner.

Where: Av. Pres. Figueroa Alcorta 3415, Palermo.

For those who enjoy cool wine bars with a great atmosphere, perfect for a date or a night out with friends, Diviiino is an unbeatable option. Their wine selection is extensive, with very affordable options from various Argentine wine regions.

The food is great, with perfect shareable options like panchos with sausage made by José Juarroz and, of course, their French fries. They come in two versions: with kimchi ketchup and fermented bean mayonnaise, or my favorites, with truffle butter and parmesan, which are unique. Thin, ultra-crispy, and perfect for eating by the thousands!

Tip: There are also vegetarian options like the hot dog with tofu and shiitake sausage, or vegan choices like roasted eggplant or fries with kimchi ketchup.

Where: José A. Cabrera 5300, Palermo.

Anchoíta is famous for taking the restaurant experience to the highest level. Their concept is based on exploring the geography of Argentina through its products, and they pay attention to every detail, both in the ambiance and service, to make you feel pampered from start to finish.

Their French fries are among the best in the city, and while the classic ones are great, I personally prefer them with Provençal, which gives them an extra touch. Triple-cooked, they achieve the perfect texture and are ideal companions for any of their river fish or meat cuts.

Tip: No, there are no more reservations available for Anchoíta this year, but you can always walk in early or late and still get a seat!

Where: Juan Ramírez de Velasco 1520, Chacarita.

Few traditional steakhouses maintain quality in both their meat and French fries. They’re usually soggy, oily, and lacking love. But that’s not the case at Parrilla Peña, a classic in the city center with a family-friendly atmosphere, beloved by tourists, locals, and many in the food industry.

Their French fries are classic, homemade-style: cut into irregular, thick sticks, and golden-brown. Perfect for pairing with a juicy steak and cleaning up the plate.

Tip: Located near Av. Corrientes, it’s a great option for a post-theater dinner, and they also offer free parking nearby. Here’s a list of the best theaters on Corrientes so you can plan your night out.

Where: Rodríguez Peña 682, San Nicolás.