El Calafate, a charming town nestled in the heart of Patagonia, Argentina, is best known as the gateway to the stunning El Calafate Glacier, specifically the renowned Perito Moreno Glacier.

If you have read our Ushuaia article, then you already know that our trip to Patagonia was an absolute revelation—visually and gastronomically. And even though we only had a short time to explore the most iconic things to do in El Calafate, the region left a lasting impression. From breathtaking landscapes to delicious food, El Calafate was a mind-blowing experience.

This being said, I want to highlight the fact that this guide aims to give you an insight into the food scene of El Calafate and tips to help you choose the best venues.

So, without further ado, let me tell you what we learned from our El Calafate trip.

A Gastronomic Wonderland: Beef, Lamb, Guanaco, and Salmon

As you may imagine, eating in El Calafate restaurants revolves around top-quality Argentinean beef. But that's not all. You also have the opportunity to try succulent lamb, unique guanaco dishes, and delicious salmon. But let's take each at a time so you can get a full picture of what I am talking about.

Beef is, of course, synonymous with Argentina and doesn't need much introduction, but here in Patagonia, lamb is equally prized. The cold, mountainous climate produces some of the most tender, flavorful lamb in the world.

And then there's guanaco. A relative of the llama, guanaco meat is a regional delicacy not commonly found in other parts of Argentina. Its lean texture and gamey flavor make it a must-try for anyone looking to experience something authentically Patagonian.

Finally, there's the King Salmon. Contrary to popular belief, Argentina has its own local salmon, particularly in the Patagonian rivers. The Santa Cruz River, for example, is famous for its King Salmon runs, making this delicious fish a local delicacy. However, it is a seasonal ingredient, so it depends on when you visit El Calafate.

One more thing to note before we go to some restaurant recommendations is that El Calafate weather can be quite unpredictable, with cool breezes even in the summer months. So expect to find hearty dishes like roasted lamb and grilled beef in the local menu. And trust me, this type of food is particularly satisfying after a day of exploring the chilly paths of the El Calafate glacier.

Tip: Make Reservations in Advance

Anyway, El Calafate restaurants are often crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Unfortunately, it's common to see long lines of people waiting outside the most popular spots.

Fortunately, we booked all our dinners in advance, which allowed us to avoid waiting and enjoy leisurely meals.

I highly recommend doing the same if you want to make the most of your dining experience. With this last thing out of the way, let's start the restaurant crawling.

Rancho Aparte: An Intimate Dining Experience

Truth be told, El Calafate gave us one of the most authentic and exciting dining experiences of our Patagonia trip.

Our top highlight was a closed-door dinner at Rancho Aparte, a small, reservation-only venue run by a host named Gabo. Dining here felt like being invited to a friend's home for dinner—everything from the ambiance to the food was perfect.

With only 12 seats available, you'll need to book far in advance, and you'll even have to pre-select your main course when making the reservation.

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We can't recommend a specific dish because everything was extraordinary.

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The intimacy of the setting, coupled with delicious food, superb wine, and lovely conversation, made this the ultimate dining experience in El Calafate.

Personal opinion: The prices were entirely reasonable, given the quality of the meal and the personalized service.

Mi Rancho: A Must for Guanaco Lovers

But if you want a more traditional restaurant experience, Mi Rancho is the perfect choice.

The cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and a well-curated wine selection made it one of our favorite places to dine in El Calafate.

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What makes this restaurant stand out, however, is its use of guanaco meat—a delicacy that, as mentioned above, is integral to Patagonian cuisine.

The great part about Mi Rancho is that it offers guanaco in various styles—grilled, smoked, and even stewed.

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We were blown away by the smoked guanaco, which had a robust, meaty flavor unlike anything else we've tasted.

Personal opinion: The beef steak wasn't the best we'd had in Argentina, but the guanaco dishes, the ambiance, and the service made this venue worth visiting.

La Tablita: Elegance and Perfection

For a more upscale dining experience, La Tablita is the place to go.

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This restaurant offers impeccable service and a carefully curated menu featuring everything from Patagonian lamb to beef and grilled vegetables. The meats are all grilled to perfection, and the vegetable sides are an excellent complement.

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Furthermore, the wine was perfect, and the service was friendly.

And if you try to visit La Tablita without a reservation and find yourself in a queue, there is a room full of peanuts where you can wait for a table.

Personal opinion: The ambiance is elegant but not pretentious, and the prices are more than fair, especially given the food quality.

Craft Beer and Good Vibes: La Zorra and La Oveja Negra

If you want a quick snack or a more casual dining experience, then La Zorra should be on your list. This place offers fantastic craft beer and a laid-back atmosphere.

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The beers are brewed locally and have a diverse selection to cater to different tastes. Plus, the background music and the vibrant vibe make this an excellent spot for a quick meal or a drink.

If you're looking for something more intimate, you could cross the street to La Oveja Negra, which also offers delicious craft beer and bar food.

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Personal opinion: We found ourselves more drawn to the energy at La Zorra. But it was just a matter of preference.

Shelby: Gin Lovers Rejoice

And if beer isn't your thing, but you still want to try some craft beverages, then Shelby should be on your list.

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This cozy little bar offers an extensive gin menu in a relaxed, intimate setting.

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Personal opinion: Whether you're catching up with friends or just enjoying a quiet night, Shelby provides the perfect ambiance for sipping on a well-crafted gin cocktail.

Beyond the Restaurants: The Nativo Experience

While you're likely visiting El Calafate for the breathtaking beauty of the Perito Moreno Glacier, I highly recommend saving half a day to take part in the Nativo Experience.

This half-day excursion allows you to explore the history and culture of the region while enjoying a delicious and memorable meal in a cave.

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Personal opinion: It's the perfect way to combine a visual and gastronomic experience in Patagonia.

FAQ

Let's take a minute to look at the most frequently asked questions people have when it comes to El Calafate. Who knows? Maybe you can find some tips you never knew you needed.

Q: What is the best time of year for food lovers to visit El Calafate?

A: The best time to visit El Calafate is from October to April when the weather is warmer and more restaurants are open. Keep in mind that El Calafate weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers.

Q: How do I get from Buenos Aires to El Calafate?

A: You can take direct flights to El Calafate from Buenos Aires. The flight takes approximately three hours, making it a convenient way to travel.

Q: Should I book reservations in advance at El Calafate restaurants?

A: Yes! I highly recommend booking in advance as El Calafate restaurants can be very busy, especially during the tourist season.

Q: Is it worth visiting El Calafate just for the food?

A: Absolutely. Especially if you are a foodie like us. While the El Calafate glacier is the main attraction, the local food scene is just as impressive.

Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits

Though our stay in El Calafate was short, it was a feast for the senses. From guanaco at Mi Rancho, the intimate dining at Rancho Aparte, to the elegant dinner at La Tablita, El Calafate restaurants offer something for every palate.

Just be sure to plan ahead, discover on your own, make reservations, and take the time to savor the unique culinary traditions that define this Patagonian town. And, as always, go with local food and recipes.

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**This article was written in September 2024. Please note that circumstances can change over time. If you discover that any venues mentioned have since closed, kindly inform us. Thank you!