Where to Eat & Drink in Villa Devoto: A Burgeoning Culinary Hub

The area has been quietly making a name for itself for an expanding and eclectic culinary movement.

Walking down Fernández de Enciso, a pedestrian street in Vllla Devoto. ph: Tim Fitzgerald

Perched at the western edge of Buenos Aires is Villa Devoto, a traditional and easy-going barrio where life reverberates around Plaza Arenales and the leafy streets that lead from it. For the large part undiscovered by tourism, the neighborhood claims to have more trees than any other in the city. This has earned it the nickname El Jardín de la Ciudad (The Garden of the City). Legend also states that the main square was once a meeting point among members of the Italian mafia at the turn of the 20th century. 

The name Devoto comes from the philanthropist Count Antonio Devoto and translates to devoted. And if you ask any long-time resident their opinion of the best place to live in the city, you’ll likely receive a half-scolding look and the reply, “well here, of course.” They might have a point, too. The area has been quietly making a name for itself for an expanding and eclectic culinary movement that’s hot on the tails of the Chacarita and Villa Crespo scenes. Many spots are set at the edge of, or near, the central plaza, making it worth a trip both during the daytime and evening.

Read on for over 30 suggestions on where to eat and drink in Villa Devoto, including under-the-radar closed-door restaurants, new foodie spots, old-school bar notables (historic places recognized by the city government), hip cafés, cocktail bars, and more. Also mentioned are a selection of wine bars, as Villa Devoto was recently crowned “BA Wine District” by the city government. We have also included a custom Google Maps link that includes all the spots. Enjoy!