If you’re visiting Mendoza and looking for the best places to eat, you’re in luck. This Argentinean city is known for its incredible food scene, offering a wide range of culinary experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or want to discover hidden gems, I’ve curated a list of the best restaurants in Mendoza that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other.
There are three main regions of Mendoza, Argentina: Maipu, Lujan de Cuyo, and Uco Valley. I have created this round-up so it’s separated by region making it easy for you to browse. Mendoza can be very spread out so you must plan your restaurants according to your daily activities!
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Downtown Mendoza Best Restaurants
The main city center of Mendoza and only 10 minutes from the airport. A great place to base from so you can enjoy all kinds of restaurants within walking distance.
Francis Mallman 1884
Francis Mallman is a well known chef in Argentina and you must watch his Chef’s Table episode before visiting! His Downtown Mendoza restaurant is Francis Mallman 1884. It is located in a former winery serving traditional Argentinian food with his inventive fire-based culinary techniques.
Anna Bistro
Anna Bistro is one of the best restaurants in Mendoza for healthy and vegetarian options. Expect a unique blend of French and Argentinian flavors. Definitely sit at the outdoor terrace and enjoy the fresh air!
Ocho Cepas
Ocho Cepas is a must-visit restaurant in Mendoza for wine lovers. This unique dining experience offers a menu that perfectly complements the region’s famous wines. The restaurant takes pride in sourcing the finest local ingredients to create dishes that showcase the flavors of Mendoza. From succulent steaks to fresh seafood, Ocho Cepas offers a variety of options to satisfy every palate. And of course, no meal at Ocho Cepas is complete without pairing it with a glass of the region’s renowned wines. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply appreciate good food, a visit to Ocho Cepas is a must when exploring the culinary delights of Mendoza.
Azafrán
Azafrán is renowned for its innovative cuisine and elegant atmosphere, making it a top choice for those seeking a fine dining experience in Mendoza. The restaurant offers a menu that combines traditional Argentine flavors with modern culinary techniques, resulting in dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. From the moment you step through the doors, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting ambiance, with attentive staff ready to guide you through the menu and help you choose the perfect wine pairing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in a memorable dining experience, Azafrán is sure to exceed your expectations. How amazing is this space??
Fuente y Fonda
Located in the heart of Mendoza, Fuente y Fonda is a charming restaurant that specializes in traditional Argentine cuisine. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere. The menu features classic dishes such as empanadas, asado, and milanesa, all cooked to perfection and meant to be shared. Each dish is made with the finest ingredients, ensuring a truly authentic dining experience. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer vegetarian options, Fuente y Fonda has something for everyone. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of Malbec, the famous wine of the region. With its delicious food and welcoming ambiance, Fuente y Fonda is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking to experience the culinary delights of Mendoza.
Uco Valley Best Restaurants
A few of my favorites in the exclusive Uco Valley, located an hour from downtown Mendoza. A truly unique area to base in and a must visit for these amazing wines!
Cundo Altamira
Cundo Altamira was our absolute FAVORITE experience in Mendoza, Argentina. It is a boutique tasting “room” with the best food and the kindest people. The owner, Carla, grew up in Buenos Aires and spent summers at her family’s vineyard in Mendoza. It was her dream to open a restaurant on the vineyard and provide an opportunity to showcase wine from all over Mendoza. Named for Carla’s son and grandfather, Cundo is the best restaurant in Mendoza and you MUST visit if you are in the Uco Valley.
Siete Fuegos
Siete Fuegos is the main restaurant at The Vines Resort. It is led by acclaimed Argentinian chef, Francis Mallman and refers to the open flame cooking style (7 fires). Expect seasonal dishes including salmon, grilled fruits and vegetables, empanadas, and of course, steak. I suggest booking a reservation on Saturday for their special experience menu where you will sit at the outdoor kitchen in a family style table setting.
El Paisano
El Paisano is one of the most authentic experiences in Argentina. It is located on a private family property where they will cook for you! Expect Argentinian steak, local fish, empanadas and more. The menu changes with the season and is 5 courses (set menu) for $45 USD/person. Contact them on whatsapp for reservations and the menu.
The property is absolutely stunning – you will dine next to a rolling stream where horses may be grazing and you can enjoy nature! Check it out below:
Piedra Infinita at Zuccardi
Zuccardi is still run by the family and you can feel that special touch throughout your experience here. We loved the wine tasting where we learned many of the wines are named after family members and subsequently got to hear their unique stories. Aside from that, the facility is very modern and futuristic in its architectural design. We would have had lunch here, but went to Cundo mentioned above.
Gaia Restaurant at Domaine Bosquet
Domaine Bousquet is known for their organic, French wines and was actually the favorite winery of our tour guide at Bodega Cruzat. They produce 4 million liters of wine a year and export to over 50 countries. Stop by for a tasting in their underground cellar and then have lunch at Gaia Restaurant.
Lujan de Cuyo Restaurants
Lujan De Cuyo is known to have the BEST malbec grapes and wines. It was here that the region found success with this variety, consequently, making it the home of malbec. Here are a few of my favorite options for lunch in Lujan de Cuyo.
La Vid at Bodega Norton
We started our Mendoza experience at Bodega Norton and they set the bar super high! This is a large scale winery with 5 vineyards and immaculate grounds. Bodega Norton was started in 1895. The owner has 10 kids and surprisingly not one of them wanted to take over the business. It was sold to the founder of Swarovski Crystal as he loved this winery. He is actually from Austria so they make a great Gruner Veltliner wine as well!
We did the bike tour and strolled through the production area where we got to taste wine in the cellar! The malbec here was my favorite of the trip. Our guide Cyntia is the best – ask for her. The scenery here, as you can see in photos, is truly unrivaled. In short, I could have spent all day at Bodega Norton relaxing at the picnic tables, eating and drinking. Which leads me to La Vid, their restaurant! It is a gorgeous space to dine and overlook the Andes mountains.
Nieto Senetiner
Nieto Senetiner is one of the oldest wineries in Mendoza dating back to 1888 when a couple Italian immigrants planted the first vines. It is a great winery to visit and do a full lunch or cooking class! The grounds are stunning and the lunch is one of the best in Mendoza. You could also book a picnic along the vineyards which would be a fun option!
Maipu Restaurants
Maipu is a popular wine region of Mendoza located about 15 minutes from the city center. If you want to bike around to various wineries, this is the best place to do so.
Patio Tempus at Tempus Alba
Tempus Alba is a family winery with 5 generations in the wine making industry. It is located on the wine route of Maipu known as the “La Cuna del Vino”, the Birthplace of Wine. Stop by for lunch and a free self guided tour of the vineyard. I had a reservation here and planned to swing by on our way back to the airport, but we were tired so decided to take it easy that morning. Bummed we missed this place as the reviews were great!
Casa del Visitante at Santa Julia
Bodega Santa Julia is a part of the Zuccardi family of wines, and is named for the only daughter of Jose Zuccardi. They offer organic wines and have everything from rosé to canned wine. I was excited to find their wines at my local Whole Foods so I can keep the vacay going!
Casa del Visitante is the onsite restaurant where you can dine in or have a picnic on the grounds enjoying the views. I personally would go for the picnic at lunchtime!
Planning Your Trip to Mendoza
Check out these posts to help plan the perfect vacation to Mendoza!
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