Café Tortoni, Buenos Aires - a building with a sign on the front
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Café Tortoni Buenos Aires

4.5
·38k reviews·Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires' oldest cafe since 1858, a historic landmark with vintage charm, famous for churros and tango.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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Café Tortoni, Buenos Aires - a building with a sign on the front

Café Tortoni Buenos Aires

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Buenos Aires' oldest cafe since 1858, a historic landmark with vintage charm, famous for churros and tango.

4.5
(38k reviews)

"The ambiance, paintings, the setup, and the people concocted a fine experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Seats

Beat the queues by arriving before opening or during off-peak hours.

🍫 Must-Try: Churros & Chocolate

Don't miss the iconic hot chocolate with crispy churros.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Ambiance

Historic Ambiance

Step back in time with marble tables, stained glass, and vintage decor. A true Buenos Aires landmark.

Instagram
Churros with Hot Chocolate

Churros with Hot Chocolate

The legendary pairing: crispy churros dipped in rich, thick hot chocolate. A must-try!

InstagramReddit
Live Tango Shows

Live Tango Shows

Experience the passion of tango in an iconic setting. Book tickets in advance for an unforgettable evening.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

Café Tortoni is a Buenos Aires icon, so expect queues, especially during peak hours. Arrive early or consider visiting on a weekday morning to soak in the historic ambiance with fewer distractions. TikTokInstagram

Embrace the History

This isn't just a cafe; it's a living museum. Appreciate the vintage decor, artwork, and the stories of literary and artistic giants who once sat here. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings for shows
Why
Cultural immersion
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cafetería en Buenos Aires, lo mejor y lo peor. Estarán de acuerdo? #cafeteria #buenosaires #turismobuenosaires #argentinatiktok
@sashuagustina
54.2K likes • 695.5K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Seats

Beat the queues by arriving before opening or during off-peak hours. TikTokInstagram

🍫 Must-Try: Churros & Chocolate

Don't miss the iconic hot chocolate with crispy churros. InstagramReddit

☕️ El café más antiguo y famoso de Buenos Aires! 📜 Fundado en 1858, el Café Tortoni es un ícono de la ciudad declarado Patrimonio Histórico y Cultural. ✍️ En sus mesas se sentaban personalidades como Gardel, Lorca, Borges y Cortázar. 💃📚Alfonsina Storni fue la primera mujer que entró a este café que en sus inicios era sólo para hombres!   🧑‍🎨 Su primer propietario fue un inmigrante francés y ...
buenosairesrandom
7.8K likes • 117.8K views
A cafeteria mais FAMOSA de BUENOS AIRES: CAFÉ TORTONI 🇦🇷 - Já compartilha com quem vai viajar com você ✈️ 🍳 O Cafe Tortoni é um ícone cultural na cidade de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Foi fundado em 1858, ou seja, há mais de 150 anos, e é o café mais antigo da cidade, atraindo tanto os locais, quanto os turistas em busca de uma autêntica experiência portenha. 💰 O café da manhã completo custou apro...
viajandobruna
13.2K likes • 381.3K views

🎟️ Book Tango Shows Ahead

For 'Sensaciones de Tango', secure your tickets well in advance. Instagram

🖼️ Admire the Art

Take time to appreciate the historical artwork adorning the walls. Reddit

Welcome to 📍 Café Tortoni, the most iconic café in Buenos Aires! 🇦🇷 Since opening in 1858, this legendary café has welcomed iconic figures, and with its stained glass windows, marble tables, and vintage charm, stepping inside feels like traveling back in time. And it’s not just about coffee and desserts! You can also catch live tango shows and cultural events here. 💃 😎 Pro tip: arrive early or ...
mariafhermann
0 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Seats

Beat the queues by arriving before opening or during off-peak hours. TikTokInstagram

🍫 Must-Try: Churros & Chocolate

Don't miss the iconic hot chocolate with crispy churros. InstagramReddit

🎟️ Book Tango Shows Ahead

For 'Sensaciones de Tango', secure your tickets well in advance. Instagram

🖼️ Admire the Art

Take time to appreciate the historical artwork adorning the walls. Reddit

💰 Check Prices

Prices can be a bit high, but it's worth it for the experience. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(38k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Café Tortoni is widely praised for its incredible historic ambiance and delicious churros with hot chocolate, offering a true step back in time. While some find it a bit touristy and the hot chocolate can be very sweet, the overall experience is considered a must-do in Buenos Aires for its cultural significance and classic charm.

"It is one of the best places I have ever been to, which really lives up to the hype. I was in a rush, I drank a 'Fernat con cola', ate a cheesecake, and took a cafe con leche on the go.
The ambiance, paintings, the setup, and the people concocted a fine experience.
Argentina, in general, has a very friendly energy via its people who are always ready to help and up for Deep conversations.
Loved you, Buenos Aires!"

Falah Galeeb

"Café Tortoni is a must-visit in Buenos Aires! The ambiance is classic and full of history, making you feel like you've stepped back in time. The service was attentive, and the churros with hot chocolate were absolutely delicious—perfectly crispy and not too sweet. The coffee was strong and flavorful, just as you’d expect from such an iconic café. It does get quite busy, but the wait is worth it. A fantastic spot for anyone looking to experience a piece of Argentina’s café culture!"

Elias Chelala (Chewy)

"This is such a beautiful, classic, and classy place. It's like stepping back into time and history here. We had cakes, coffee and chocolate. The slightly minor imperfections were that the thick hot chocolate I ordered was too sweet, and one of the ladies' toilets wasn't locking (the lock was completely missing), everything else was top notch."

Laura C.

What People Like

Historic ambiance
Churros and hot chocolate
Vintage decor

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Hot chocolate too sweet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Café Tortoni is located at Av. de Mayo 825, in the Montserrat neighborhood. It's easily accessible by public transport. Several bus lines stop nearby, and the nearest Subte (metro) stations are Plaza de Mayo (Lines A, D, E) and Perú (Line A), both a short walk away. Instagram

Yes, its central location on Avenida de Mayo makes it very accessible for tourists exploring the city center. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Instagram

From most central areas of Buenos Aires, walking is a pleasant option if you're nearby. Otherwise, taking a bus or the Subte to Plaza de Mayo or Perú station will put you within a few minutes' walk. Instagram

Street parking can be challenging in this busy area. It's advisable to use public transport, taxis, or ride-sharing services. There are paid parking garages in the vicinity if you must drive. Instagram

Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from the Obelisco down Avenida 9 de Julio and then onto Avenida de Mayo. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, you do not need to buy tickets to enter Café Tortoni. It operates as a regular cafe and restaurant. However, for special events like tango shows, advance booking is essential. Instagram+1

Café Tortoni typically opens in the morning and stays open until late evening. Hours can vary slightly, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most current information. Instagram

There is no entrance fee to simply enter and enjoy the cafe's atmosphere. You pay for what you order. Instagram

Wait times can vary significantly, especially during peak tourist seasons and times. Arriving early in the morning or on a weekday can help minimize your wait. TikTokInstagram

For regular cafe service, reservations are generally not taken, and it's first-come, first-served. For the tango shows, booking is mandatory and should be done in advance. Instagram

🎫 ☕ Onsite Experience

The most recommended items are the churros with thick hot chocolate, and a 'café con leche' (coffee with milk). Many also enjoy their medialunas (croissants) and cheesecakes. InstagramReddit

The atmosphere is classic, historic, and elegant, reminiscent of a 19th-century European cafe. Expect marble tables, vintage decor, and beautiful stained-glass windows. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, Café Tortoni hosts live tango shows, most notably the 'Sensaciones de Tango' show, which is a popular evening attraction. Instagram+1

Absolutely! It's a classic spot for breakfast, offering traditional pastries like medialunas and coffee. It's a great way to start your day steeped in history. Instagram

They serve a range of cafe fare, including pastries, sandwiches, cakes, and light meals. Their specialty is the hot chocolate and churros. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Café Tortoni. Visitors often capture the stunning interior, the artwork, and their food and drinks. Be mindful of other patrons and avoid intrusive photography. Instagram

The main dining area with its marble tables and stained-glass windows is a prime spot. The vintage bar area and the exterior facade are also very photogenic. Instagram+1

Photography during the tango show might be restricted to avoid disrupting the performance. It's best to check with staff upon arrival or during the show. Instagram+1

Early morning, before the crowds arrive, offers the best light and a more serene environment for photography. The warm interior lighting in the evening can also create a beautiful ambiance. Instagram

The iconic signage, the vintage cash register, and the detailed artwork on the walls offer unique photo opportunities that capture the cafe's rich history. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Café Tortoni offers a unique experience for families, blending history with delicious treats. The churros with hot chocolate are a guaranteed hit with children.Instagram The visually stunning interior, with its stained-glass windows and vintage decor, can spark imagination and make for a memorable outing. While it can get crowded, visiting during off-peak hours or early in the morning can make it more manageable with little ones. Consider it a special treat rather than a quick stop. TikTokInstagram

💰 Budget Travelers

While Café Tortoni is an iconic spot, it's not the cheapest. However, you can still experience its charm without breaking the bank. Opt for a single churro or a coffee instead of a full breakfast or elaborate dessert.Instagram Sharing a plate of churros and hot chocolate is also a more economical option for couples or small groups. Focus on enjoying the atmosphere and a small treat to savor the history. Instagram

💖 Couples

For a romantic outing, consider booking a tango show at Café Tortoni for an unforgettable evening.Instagram+1 Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely afternoon with coffee and pastries at one of the historic marble tables, soaking in the elegant ambiance. It's a perfect spot for conversation and creating lasting memories in a truly iconic setting. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Taste of History: The Iconic Menu

Café Tortoni is renowned for its classic offerings that have been enjoyed for generations. The absolute must-try is the chocolate con churros.InstagramReddit The churros are perfectly crispy, and the hot chocolate is famously thick and rich, a decadent treat that transports you back in time. Beyond this star pairing, you can enjoy traditional Argentine pastries like medialunas (croissants),Instagram perfect with a café con leche.Instagram For a light meal, consider their toasted sandwiches or a slice of cheesecake. While some reviews mention the hot chocolate can be quite sweet,Reddit it's part of the authentic experience.

The menu reflects the cafe's heritage, offering simple yet delicious items that complement the historic ambiance. The prices are on the higher side, reflecting its status as a landmark, but many visitors find the experience and the quality of the food to be well worth the cost. Instagram

For those seeking a more substantial experience, Café Tortoni also offers light meals and desserts that are not overly sweet by South American standards, providing a delightful culinary journey through Buenos Aires' cafe culture. Reddit

The Grand Stage: Tango at Tortoni

Café Tortoni is not just a place to enjoy coffee and pastries; it's a venue for cultural performances, most notably live tango shows.Instagram+1 The 'Sensaciones de Tango' show is a highlight for many visitors, offering an intimate and passionate display of Argentina's most famous dance. These shows typically take place in the evenings, transforming the historic cafe into a vibrant performance space.

Attending a tango show at Café Tortoni is often described as a quintessential Buenos Aires experience. It's a chance to witness professional dancers and musicians in a setting steeped in history, where cultural icons once gathered. Due to its popularity, it's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance,Instagram as shows can sell out quickly.

When planning your visit for a tango show, be aware of the timings. Shows usually start in the early evening, with doors opening for entry about an hour prior. This allows you to perhaps enjoy a pre-show drink or simply soak in the atmosphere before the performance begins. Instagram

A Walk Through Time: The Cafe's Rich History

Founded in 1858, Café Tortoni is the oldest cafe in Buenos Aires Instagram+1 and a declared National Historic Monument. Its origins trace back to a French immigrant who named it in homage to the famous Café Tortoni in Paris. Over the decades, it became a vibrant hub for the city's intellectual and artistic elite. Figures like Jorge Luis Borges, Federico García Lorca, Julio Cortázar, and Carlos Gardel Instagram+1 were regulars, their presence adding to the cafe's legendary status.

Stepping into Café Tortoni feels like stepping back into the Belle Époque. The interior is a masterpiece of vintage design, featuring original marble tables, ornate stained-glass windows, dark wood paneling, and a beautifully preserved vintage cash register. The walls are adorned with historical artwork and photographs,Reddit each piece telling a story of the cafe's illustrious past and the personalities who frequented it. This meticulous preservation allows visitors to experience the cafe much as it was over a century ago.

The cafe's history also includes significant social milestones. For instance, Alfonsina Storni, a prominent poet, was one of the first women to enter the cafe when it was initially a male-only establishment.Instagram This detail underscores the cafe's role not just as a social gathering spot but also as a place where societal norms were sometimes challenged and evolved.

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