As a result of the great number of foreign tourists, the city of El Calafate keeps on growing and improving with the aim to offer a larger variety of options. Most of the restaurants we were pleased to visit are run by young chefs who know how to combine the delicious Patagonian flavors with Mediterranean cuisine. They are also eager to show off their gourmet cooking skills in this southern nook and how they re-invent typical dishes.
Barricas de Enopio
Combining a menu of tasteful Patagonian dishes with a sophisticated wine cellar, this restaurant is one of the classic spots not to miss.
In Greek mythology, Oenopion (Enopio) was the son of Dionysius, God of wine, who brought the art to please the senses. Therefore, the owners of this restaurant seem to suggest that this is not just a place to eat. Stone and wood decoration in Andean style complemented by the whispering of jazz or bossa-nova music creates a relaxing and cozy atmosphere.
After trying a mouthwatering selection of smoked food and some charcoal-grilled vegetables on a board, the chef made us taste some ravioli filled with spider crab meat for the main course. Then, we could not avoid tasting the popular Patagonian lamb.
Exquisite dishes and a wine cellar keeping national and international jewels are a pleasure for our palate and a fest for our senses
Casimiro Biguá
Open from morning till dawn, this restaurant is an excellent place for all tastes. Wonderful dishes made of typical Patagonian flavors and the Mediterranean cuisine blended in a southern warm environment make an absolutely pleasant atmosphere.
A complete menu, designed by chef Rodrigo Jordi, displays the most fantastic plates: from the typical roasted lamb accompanied by risotto to an original and exquisite salmon, prawns and spinach-filled braid.
The classic Criollo array of smoked and pickled food, humitas en chala (steamed corn husks filled with ground corn) and home-baked bread stuffed with pork rinds deserve a special chapter.
In addition to these tasteful plates, Casimiro Biguá houses a varied wine bar with over 198 labels for still and sparkling wines. It is also possible to enjoy a wine dispenser served by the glass in its optimum temperature conditions to accompany savory dishes or simply taste it.
For the dessert fans, it is impossible not to be tempted by the calafate semifreddo or the chocolate parfait , which together with a Segafredo Italian coffee create a unique experience in our palate.
With smoking and non-smoking areas, Casimiro Biguá offers quality and comfort to its guests.
La Tablita
Visitors cannot miss the typical roasted Patagonian lamb on spit: La Tablita is one of the classic steak houses in the city of El Calafate, ideal to savor regional dishes made with the best red and white meat.
Beyond the classic menu, it includes a large selection of the best wines, mainly those produced by the most outstanding national wineries.
With a huge room, La Tablita is an excellent option for the families or groups of friends to taste the most delicious traditional dishes in Patagonia.
It’s Just a Matter of Owls
Since 2002 this family business composed of La Lechuza Pizzas, La Lechuza Restaurante and La Lechuzita have made the difference in El Calafate and become emblematic gastronomic destinations in the city.
At La Lechuza Pizzas, customers may enjoy not only the best pizzas and empanadas, but also savor the fantastic homemade pasta, a wide range of sandwiches and tasteful meat on a plate.
La Lechuza Restaurante offers Patagonian dishes and the most delightful homemade pastry served with lovely wines, beers, liquors and whiskies. This is a friendly and calm environment, where visitors may enjoy the best coffee and tea in the world as well.
The youngest of the projects, La Lechuzita (The Little Owl), was thought and designed for kids. This restobar houses a playroom unique in the city of El Calafate, a ball pit, video games, movies in DVD format and a children’s menu for kids to enjoy the best food. At a separate area, grown-ups can watch their kids as they spend good time in a comfortable ambience.
The spacious and comfortable hall is ideal to enjoy lunch or dinner, both in groups or with the family.