La Vermuteria
At the helm of the vermut revolution in Buenos Aires is La Vermuteria, a pint-sized, curbside tapas and vermut bar in San Telmo. Bringing the taste of Spain to the streets of this southern district, La Vermuteria has a selection of vermuts on offer made from local tipples such as Cynar and international favorites like Aperol. Take a seat outside in the summer or make like a Spaniard and perch on a stool at the bar and choose your tapas from the display cabinet.
Napoles Bar and Restaurant
This quirky cocktail bar and restaurant is located on Caseros Avenue on the border of Barracas. Caseros is where it’s at these days in San Telmo, and Napoles has done its fair share in securing a steady stream of customers to this bustling avenue, which is a heady blend of old-school charm and new school hipness. Napoles is essentially the out-turned attic of a discerning collector, and you can sip your cocktails whilst perusing the incredible array of antiques, including old motorcycles and cars.
Napoles Bar and Restaurant, Av. Caseros 449, San Telmo, Buenos Aires
On Tap
On Tap has cemented itself as a stalwart of the craft beer scene in a city that has exploded with this yeasty brew in recent years, but not all of it to fanfare. Let’s be honest, many artisanal beer purveyors don’t really have a clue what they’re doing, but On Tap breaks the mould by serving up some of the tastiest beers in the city. With other locations in Palermo and Colegiales, this Caseros joint is small, but always packed, so luckily they have extra seating outside on the pavement. Get a side of onion rings to line your stomach for all those beers you’re going to guzzle.
Bierlife
Another solid choice for lovers of craft beer is Bierlife, a much-loved spot of locals, expats and tourists, who come for the lively atmosphere and, of course, gallons of grog. Set in a charming space typical of San Telmo, exposed brickwork walls dotted with fairy lights and quirky signage make for a perfect place to enjoy an after-work beer, or to hit before the club on a Friday or Saturday night. Of course, it’s also an ideal spot for a thirsty Thursday. Just saying.
Valhalla
Bring your drinking horn and your best Nordic outfit, because this Viking-themed bar will bring out your inner Jon Snow. With a map of Scandinavia plastered on the wall behind the bar and intimidating, pointy fonts throughout that will make you wonder if it’s all a joke, Valhalla delivers in the drinks stakes where it may fail in its concept. Expect strong cocktails with European liquor, and try out some of their Scandinavian tapas, they go down very well with beer.
Breoghan Brew Bar
No one knows booze better than the Irish, and with a name like Breoghan, you can bet these brewers know their stuff. They may not originally be from the Emerald Isle, and they also offer American brews like barley wine and craft IPAs on tap. If you’re needing some ballast to get you through the night, grab one of their burgers, then roll yourself home on a full belly.
Chin Chin
New kids on the block Chin Chin have fast made a name for themselves as one of the go-to joints in San Telmo. With a number of beers on tap and of course old-school favorites like Fernet and Coke, this corner property has a social atmosphere that will keep you on the corner long after your beer is finished. If you’re lucky enough to snag a table, get some grub – it’s second to none in the area.