Where to eat well in La Feliz

Montecatini has all the ingredients that a classic should have. Its history began in 1963, when two Italian waiters founded the first location, starting this place's rich tradition. Recently, one of its most iconic branches was renovated, and it has always kept a beautiful logo that adorns every dish in the restaurant.

During the renovation, they added a visible pasta factory, an irresistible detail for any diner. Dishes like grilled squid, cabutia tortellini, and slow-cooked short ribs are perfect examples of how they updated the menu without losing the bodegón spirit or the feeling of enjoying homemade food. The place is so spacious that even when full, it doesn't take long to get a table.

Tip: Make sure to save room for dessert, as they have a menu of artisanal ice cream that follows the city’s tradition.

Where: La Rioja and 25 de Mayo, La Perla neighborhood; this is the renovated branch. They have two other locations around the city.

Proyecto Pescado might be one of the most innovative and original proposals from the new generation of Mar del Plata chefs. The concept is developed in two formats: the Las Cuevas beach kiosk in Chapadmalal and the tasting menu at Faro Norte, in the Alfar neighborhood.

At both locations, they offer a unique experience that seeks to highlight local fishing and give this product the prominence it deserves in Argentine cuisine. They were the big revelation of last summer, and in 2025, they face the challenge of consolidating themselves in terms of quality and service.

Their trademark is that everything they serve comes from artisanal fishing done daily, meaning the menu changes with the seasons. If you’re lucky enough to find lemon fish on the menu, don’t hesitate to try it.

Tip: To stay updated on their events, collaborations with other chefs, and new proposals, it’s essential to follow them on social media.

Where: Las Cuevas: Calle 0 and 699 - Playa Chapadmalal. Faro Norte: Sánchez de Bustamante 3548, Mar del Plata.

Bai Bai Café is a must-visit in Mar del Plata for those looking for a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for going barefoot straight from the beach. Their cuisine is hard to classify; it could be described as “signature beachside cuisine.” The menu blends fresh ingredients with light recipes. Some standout dishes include the shrimp and avocado sandwich, the beef and mushroom burger, the chicken chipá, and pulled pork.

They also offer specialty coffee, which provides a great excuse to visit even outside lunch hours. The place frequently hosts festivals and live music events, often with renowned guest chefs.

Tip: At sunset, grab a fish & chips with a cold beer, and your day is complete.

Where: Calle 0 (formerly Caracolas) 3069, between 64 and 719, Chapadmalal.

The Chauvin neighborhood could have its own guide, not just for its gastronomic offer but also for its cultural and social richness. In this context, Corte y Confección stands out as a restaurant on its way to becoming a classic.

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The project, created by the couple Esteban Borione and Coca Damiano, opened eight years ago and has kept the spirit of its beginnings as a closed-door restaurant.

The menu is carefully structured in three acts: introduction, climax, and conclusion. The signature dish is caramelized brie cheese with almond slices, organic greens, and pears, a classic that has never left the menu. The offerings in the climax are varied, with fish taking center stage: sole, cod, trout, or chernia, to satisfy all tastes.

Tip: We recommend letting yourself be carried away, don’t go looking for a quick meal. Diving into Corte y Confección is a great way to unwind.

Where: Castelli 2720, Mar del Plata.

Mar del Plata is breathtaking from any perspective, and one of the most captivating is the combination of literature and gastronomy, a true dream journey. An unmissable recommendation is to read Los Sorrentinos by Virginia Higa, which tells the story of this iconic restaurant and how its owners became the "creators" of the famous sorrentinos, that uniquely Argentine dish. Here are other literary suggestions ideal for reading at this time of year.

Trattoria Napolitana Véspoli is a pillar of the city’s old guard, a bodegón in every sense. Its family history and tradition of hearty dishes make it a must-stop. Definitely not the place for anyone thinking of a summer diet.

Some of its classics include matambre with Russian salad, Neapolitan eggplant, lasagna, and homemade gnocchi, accompanying the undisputed star of the menu: sorrentinos stuffed with spinach and ricotta, ham, and cheese. For dessert, there’s no debate: order the postre Don Chiche, a delicious mix of American cream ice cream, chocolate mousse, dulce de leche, and cream. To finish, accept the courtesy limoncello (and if they don’t offer it, don’t hesitate to ask for it).

Tip: Never cut the sorrentinos with a knife, or you’ll be seen as a foreigner. Always use a fork.

Where: 3 de febrero 3154/60, Mar del Plata.

It’s impossible to talk about Mar del Plata’s history without mentioning Parrilla Perales. In a coastal city, the emblem of this place is the roasted pig, a dish that became its specialty during the beef ban under the dictatorship. Since then, they have perfected the technique, and today they serve one of the best in the country. The ribs are a standout.

Additionally, the butterfly-style bife de chorizo is another gem on the menu, perfect for sharing. Managed by the third generation of the family, this restaurant preserves the spirit of a classic bodegón.

Tip: In high season, it’s best to make a reservation in advance.

Where: Dorrego 3186, Mar del Plata.

For those looking to step out of the traditional bodegón circuit, this Asian cantina is a breath of fresh air in Mar del Plata’s gastronomic scene. It’s the first fusion Asian cuisine venture in the city, created by a group of friends who wanted to break molds—and they succeeded.

Asian Ghetto’s menu is centered around Asian street food, with dishes that come out quickly to match the relaxed and informal atmosphere. Some must-try dishes include dumplings, baos, ceviche, ramen, and curry. They also often host collaborations with other local culinary projects, offering an excellent opportunity to try more in one place.

Tip: If you’re unsure, order the Korean chicken curry, which masterfully combines flavors. You won’t be disappointed.

Where: San Lorenzo 2991, Mar del Plata.

In a city with bodegones, kiosks, and fine dining, there had to be a modern concept that revalues the port. La Pescadería Fish Market (the name and decor are a bit odd, we must say) challenges preconceived notions about the area and stands out as one of the few places offering fresh fish in the Mar del Plata port.

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The ideal experience is to sit at the bar, choose a piece of fish, and enjoy it freshly prepared. A perfect combination of simplicity and freshness.

Tip: Besides eating, you can take home some fresh fish and replicate the recipe at home. A great way to promote fish consumption at home, which is still lacking in Argentina.

Where: Puerto Commercial Center, Local 18, Mar del Plata.

Although it’s not a restaurant, the product they make is so good that it deserves a special place on this list. Heladería Il Calabrese is perfect for when you want dessert outside of a restaurant and end your meal with one of the best ice creams in the country.

In a city with a rich ice cream tradition, Pablo Commisso takes it a step further. His menu combines classic flavors like pistachio, vanilla, and dulce de leche with original options like Russian cream, quinces with whiskey, or figs with cognac. For the more adventurous, there are delights like gorgonzola cheese or peaches in wine.

Tip: The chocolate-dipped ice cream is a tradition here. Pair it with a fruity ice cream for a real elixir.

Where: Córdoba 3556, Mar del Plata.

Mar del Plata needed a space like Chauvin, a cultural center that combines art, gastronomy, and entertainment in one place. Located in the neighborhood of the same name, this multifaceted venue includes micro-theater, a concert hall, an art gallery, a café, a restaurant, and a rooftop surrounded by greenery that invites you to disconnect from the coastal noise.

The cuisine is eclectic and dynamic. They change the offerings depending on the time of day, but what clearly stands out are the main dishes. They offer something very new in their seafood section, which is chernia from two types: Atlantic and coastal. Then, some cantina classics but reimagined and presented in innovative ways, like spaghetti carbonara and milanesa.

Tip: The croissants at the café are legendary. A great option for a different breather in the city.

Where: San Luis 2849, Mar del Plata.