Buenos Aires is dotted with coffee houses. On Avenida Corrientes alone there many old-fashioned coffee houses, most of which serve a delicious cupper, while many smaller exquisite coffee houses-cum-pastelerias (pastry shops) can be found scattered around Recoleta and Palermo.

Gran Café Tortoni on Avenida de Mayo 825 in Congresso claims to be Argentina’s longest-running coffee shop. It opened in 1868 and has long been patronised by Argentina’s literary set. Housed in an attractive old establishment, it also has a permanent art exhibition, hosts tango shows and is a popular tango meeting place.
La Biela looks toward the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Pilar on Avenida Quintana 600 in the middle of fashionable Recolet. It’s a particularly good people-watching spot as it boasts a huge terrace and an even larger interior, which can seat up to 400 people.
Establecimiento General de Café on Avenida Pueyrredon 1529 in Barrio Norte has five sleek-looking coffee houses in the capital. You can also sample and buy coffee beans here.
Café Martinez on Talcahuano 948 has dozens of branches throughout Buenos Aires and has a great choice of coffees from all over the world.
Florida Garden on Florida 899 in Retiro is a classic confiteria which serves up both Brazilian and Colombian blends.