Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
DRINKING & NIGHTLIFE
Many watering holes in the Center are Irish-pub knock-offs that cater to the business
crowd on weekdays. Because of this, some might close a bit earlier than in other
neighborhoods, but the most popular ones stay packed all night long. The Center also
has some of the oldest cafes in town, delightfully atmospheric venues that offer a wel-
come break while you're wandering around.
CAFÉ TORTONI
( 4342-4328;
www.cafetortoni.com.ar
; Av de Mayo 829; 8am-2am Mon-Fri, 9am-2am Sat & Sun)
BA's oldest and most famous cafe, the classic Tortoni has become so popular with foreign-
ers that it's turned into a tourist trap. Still, it's practically an obligatory stop for any visitor
to town: order a couple of
churros
(fried pastry dough) with your hot chocolate and forget
about the inflated prices. There are also tango shows nightly (AR$150) - reserve ahead.
CAFE
LA CIGALE
( 4893-2332; 25 de Mayo 597; noon-4pm & 6pm-close)
This upstairs bar-restaurant is very
popular with both office workers (during the day) and music-industry folks (later in the
evening). There's either live music or DJs most nights, but it's best known for its 'French
Tuesday', when electronica and exotic cocktails draw heavy crowds. Fusion foods are
served for both lunch and dinner.
BAR
LONDON CITY
( 4343-0328; Av de Mayo 599)
This classy and historic cafe (being remodelled at research
time) has been serving java enthusiasts for over 50 years, and claims to have been the spot
where Julio Cortázar wrote his first novel. Your hardest work here, however, will most
likely be choosing which pastry to try with your fresh cup of coffee.
CAFE
NEW BRIGHTON
( 4322-1515; Sarmiento 645; 8am-close Mon-Sat)
This beautifully restored landmark and
historic gem feels like the well-kept secret of refined local gentlemen who gather here after
work. A doorman welcomes guests in while bartenders stir and shake drinks behind a
BAR
