Where the Locals Eat in Mendoza

Argentines are much like the Italians in that they take their gelato very seriously. They consume lots of it all year round, but in the summer consumption skyrockets. Families, couples and friends need no excuse to enjoy an “helado” at the ice cream parlor. Heladeria Famiglia Perin is a traditional staple for classic artisanal gelato in downtown Mendoza with an abundance of outdoor seating. Sarmiento 799; +54 261 425 7624

El Palenque is a classic where locals and tourists can both be found sipping wine from “pinguino” carafes—vessels historically used by Argentine gauchos nicknamed for their distinct penguin shape. El Palenque is fashioned after an old-time “pulperia” or tavern where neighbors would come together to drink house wine, eat bar food and catch up on the daily gossip. Order the melt in your mouth fried calamari (rabas) while you sit outside and people watch. Aristides 287; +54 261 429 1814