Replete with character-rich bars, speakeasies, tango houses, and nightclubs, Buenos Aires is an oasis of cool – pure heaven for night owls. Insider Marisa steers you to the best hidden spots.
Photo © Sean O'Reilly
Bars
Start your night at some of the city’s more laid-back bars, located in Buenos Aires’ oldest neighborhood, San Telmo. Doppelganger (locally called Doppel) specializes in classic cocktails like
Speakeasies
Buenos Aires has a thriving underground bar scene. Speakeasies with hidden doors are everywhere, such as Florería Atlántico in Retiro, a chic cocktail bar masquerading as a flower shop.
In Palermo, the undisputed nightlife epicenter of the city, you’ll find The Harrison Speakeasy. It used to be a completely secretive, upscale affair that’s now widely known to be concealed beneath Nicky NY Sushi. (Ask to “see the wine cellar.”) Getting past the doorman can be a challenge at this members-only joint, but it’s well worth the incredible cocktails and glamorous atmosphere if you manage to get in.
Try the Verne Club for its author-inspired menu and absinthe tasting, before vying for your place in line at Uptown. The wait can be frustrating at this hotspot, but once inside you’ll enjoy a full-on homage to the New York subway, complete with trains, turnstiles and urban graffiti.
Located on a quiet, tree-lined street in Villa Crespo, Bar 878 may seem out of the way, but it’s easily the most welcoming and laid-back underground bar in the city.
Palermo nightclubs
Niceto Vega is Buenos Aires’ street of nightclubs. Head to legacy favorite Club 69 at the Niceto Club to see and be seen. Try Makena Cantina Club for your live music fix, then head bayside to Terazas del Este, a waterfront bar that becomes Bayside Nightclub on Saturday.
Gay Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is one of the most gay-friendly cities in Latin America, which is well-reflected in the nightlife scene. The early-birds watering hole is Pride Café in San Telmo, but the real party happens late night – catch the LGBTQ party on Wednesdays at Fiesta Jolie or dance to electronic music at Work Bar, both in Palermo.
Milongas
An Argentina night without tango would be a sin, so be sure to check out a milonga (tango house), designed for dancing the night away.
Maldita in San Telmo is a classic, and its live orchestra El Atronfe draws a crowd – Tuesdays are “Tango Queer.” For newbies, your best bet is La Cathedral in barrio Almagro, well known for its relaxed and informal vibe. If you’re not a night owl, hit up El Beso’s matinée milonga near the Callao metro stop, where dancing starts at 2
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