The Best Bloody Marys in Buenos Aires
I’ve been back on a Bloody Mary kick these days, and I’m not sure why. But I am grateful that you can finally get a decent one in more than a few spots around town. Let it be known that I’m of the belief that a Bloody really isn’t meant to be enjoyed past lunchtime, but I’m not here to yuck anyone else’s yum.
Also, the world is ending! If you want to have a Bloody Mary at 2am, you should go ahead and do it! Why would you ever listen to me!
Chuí
Go for the lush jungle setting and innovative plant-based menu, stay for the spicy fresh Bloody. It’s an instant classic that really hits the spot. Absolutely perfect for a sunny weekend lunch that extends well into late afternoon. Chuí, tkm.
Chuí - Loyola 1250 - Villa Crespo
Anafe
It’s hard to compete with one of the ~* coolest *~ sidewalks in the city, where terminally hip artist types mingle with rescue greyhounds and international in-the-know tourists. Lunch al fresco at Anafe is one of the best ways to spend a balmy afternoon, and I always show up a little early so I can sip on a Bloody before putting in my food order. Like everything Anafe does, it’s both elevated and effortless.
Anafe - Virrey Avilés 3216 - Colegiales
Casa Cavia
Fan of the Bloody Mary flavor, but not the texture? On the hunt for a level of coctelería that can’t be found just anywhere? Look no further than the bar at Casa Cavia. The creativity and skill of Flavia Arroyo, Pablo Zitarosa, and Tomi Tripaglia results in a truly impressive roster of new and classic creations, and their decidedly modern take on a Bloody Mary will challenge everything you thought you knew.
Casa Cavia - Cavia 2985 - Palermo
BASA
BASA is a place that just gets it. Sleek sexy décor, dishes that feel both current and timeless - never tired, and a bar so good I never felt the need to leave the neighborhood (yes, I used to live half a block away and it was absolutely glorious). I’d follow Ludo de Biaggi to the end of the earth to solve any and all of my cocktail needs, and his Bloody Mary is undoubtedly a local icon.
BASA - Basavilbaso 1328 - Retiro
Cafe Tabac
Are you secretly 85 years old? Do you prioritize vibes over execution? Must your cocktails be served with a mini platter of tea sandwiches and potato chips? Then Tabac is where you’ll need to order your next Bloody Mary. It might not be the most refined, but it’s hard to argue with its privileged location + people watching combo. Just close your eyes and go with it.
Cafe Tabac - Av. del Libertador y Coronel Díaz - Palermo
The Four Seasons (Poolside)
Back in the Before Times™️ when one of the few perks of a crashing economy and multiple exchange rates meant you could treat yourself to a full spa day at a luxury hotel for something like $100, I’d indulge in a poolside moment at the Four Seasons every now and again. It’s hard to beat the feeling of sitting under a big umbrella, wearing a fluffy bathrobe, and sipping on a fat Bloody Mary. Those halcyon days are mostly behind us, but the delicate (and potent) nostalgia lingers on.
I don’t have a picture of the Bloody Mary so here’s an exact depiction of what I look like while drinking it.
Four Seasons - Posadas 1086 - Recoleta
Los Galgos
94 years young, Los Galgos is perhaps my favorite bar notable in town. Buzzing with new life yet firmly rooted in tradition, it’s the perfect spot for a morning cafecito, pre-dinner aperitivo, or postprandial nightcap at the cozy bar upstairs. The commitment to serving classic Argentine cocktails - such as the Ferroviario - alongside more universal favorites sets Los Galgos apart from the rest. Its Bloody Mary is best enjoyed with stimulating sobremesa conversation or an old copy of the New Yorker muled back to town in someone’s carry-on.
Los Galgos - Av. Callao 501 - Congreso