3 Best Restaurants in The Lake District, Argentina

Leather place mats, calfskin menus, and the smell of beef all hint heavily at steak house. El Boliche has the best beef in Bariloche. Grilled beef, chicken, lamb, and chorizos all arrive sizzling on a wooden platter, accompanied by empanadas, provoleta (fried provolone cheese), salad, fried potatoes, and chimichurri sauce (slather it on the bread). There are three locations: Elflein 158 and Villegas 347 specialize in barbeque dishes, and Elfein 143 in pastas.

Locals come to this friendly restaurant for its outstanding pastas and variety of entrées: expect meats from Patagonia to the pampas, fish from both oceans, local game, and fresh vegetables. Hearty portions make this an ideal place to end a long day on the slopes.  Empanadas and take-out items can be ordered at the entrance.

About 10 minutes north of town, on the bank of the river Arroyo del Medio, Parrilla El Quincho is the primo place to try cordero patagónico al asador (lamb roasted slowly on a metal cross over a fire), along with sizzling platters of beef. Vegetarian options are also available. From El Bolsón, take RN40 north and get off at the left exit for Cascada Mallín Ahogado. Follow that winding road north, then follow signs for El Quincho; once you arrive at the Cascada you will find the restaurant 500 meters (1/3 mile) to the left (if you hit the Iaten K'aik museum, you've gone too far).