Buenos Aires Map Guide, Belgrano Neighborhood

Belgrano Neighborhood Guide

webmaster

By | September 14, 2009

Balcony view of Belgrano Buenos Aires

Neighborhood guide of Belgrano, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Restaurants, cafes, Barrio Chino, as well as things to see and do.

La Onda (The Vibe)

This district lends itself well for exploring. Straying away from Cabildo, you will find massive modernized, luxurious high rises juxtaposed with the more antiquated three and four-story apartment blocks with old-fashioned ornate façades. Many of the streets are still cobblestoned and bursting with porteño flavor.

History 

Named after the politician and military leader, General Manuel Belgrano who also created the first national flag, this neighborhood was once its own city. Upon his death in 1820, the legislature passed a law stating that the next city would bear Belgrano’s name. In 1855, after it had appropriated some of the ex-dictator Rosas’ lands, the Argentine government designated some of this new territory in the north as the new town of Belgrano. The town eventually grew into a city, and even acted as the capital for a few weeks in 1880. Later the city would declare Buenos Aires as the nation’s capital and in 1887 it was officially annexed into the city of Buenos Aires.

Things to see and do in Belgrano

A little off the typical tourist path, Belgrano is a great place to spend a day or two. While not full of famous monuments, museums or cemeteries, this area has a few gems worth checking out. A day in Belgrano is best spent wandering the residential streets, relaxing at the park, or enjoying the best Chinese food in Buenos Aires.

Plaza Manuel Belgrano

Nestled in the heart of Belgrano you’ll find Plaza Manuel Belgrano. This charming square is home to a daily artisan fair speckled with a patchwork of blankets displaying handmade artisanal goods. Although personal hygiene might not be top priority for these artisans, this Bohemian crowd will happily indulge passersby with pleasant chat without any underlying pretensions of making a sale.

This plaza also features the Inmaculada Concepción church where, on any given afternoon, one could happen upon a wedding ceremony. Crossing Juramento Street rests the Larreta and Sarmiento Museums. Erected over a century ago, the Larreta Museum features primarily Spanish art, as well as an impressive Andalusian garden. Occupying what was previously Town Hall, the Sarmiento Museum displays a variety of art and ephemera from the Sarmiento and Avellaneda presidencies.

Barrancas de Belgrano

Situated in front of the sizeable Belgrano train station and transportation hub, Barrancas de Belgrano is an expansive urban park. Filled with winding tree-lined paths, monuments, fountains and benches, this park is a popular hangout for the residents of Belgrano. A very chill place to spend an afternoon relaxing or enjoying a picnic.

Shopping

Cabildo street is akin to its southerly cousin Santa Fe because of its seemingly infinite array of shops. Whether it’s summer garments, an afternoon cappuccino, a classic Borges text, or an independent film that you’re seeking, you will find it all on Cabildo. Traffic can get a bit clogged during peak hours, but a brisk walk is a great afternoon activity for window shoppers and people watchers, alike.

Buenos Aires Barrio Chino

Positioned next to Barrancas de Belgrano, is Barrio Chino. Two blocks packed with about 100 Asian-owned shops and restaurants, this mini-district has a much different vibe than anywhere else in Buenos Aires. If you’re craving some authentic wonton soup, looking for spicy ingredients, or just fancy a stimulating herbal tea, this is the place to be.

Restaurants Bars and cafes

Belgrano doesn’t have as many restaurants, bars and cafes to choose from as its southern neighbor Palermo. But, there is an emerging gastronomy scene in Bajo Belgrano that offers up a selection of eclectic eateries.

Americano Coffee and Kitchen is a specialty café and restaurant serving up contemporary Amercian food. With items ranging from Venezuelan arepas and eggs, smoked pork tacos served with cilantro and pickled onions, to plantain lasagna, and fluffy pancakes, their menu takes you on a journey through the Americas. Snag a table at the counter to get the best service, and don’t leave without trying one of the fresh baked goodies on the pastry menu.

Serving up delicious meats and appetizers, El Corte Comedor has a fresh take on a traditional parrilla. On the menu, you’ll find all of the classic Argentine steak house cuts of meat. But, served with innovative twists that will remind you there’s a talented chef behind the scenes, not just a few guys manning a grill. The dishes don’t come cheap, but the huge portions of steak cooked to perfection, and amazing service are worth it.

Spending time in Belgrano without sampling some authentic Asian fare in Barrio Chino would be a shame. Mian is a quaint hole in the wall that’s serving up huge portions of mouthwatering noodles, soups and dumplings. There is also a growing street food scene in this mini-barrio. For those on a budget, or who simply can’t decide what to try, walking around and tasting a bit of everything makes for a great plan on a sunny day.

  • Share this article!

Wow! Don't forget to check the 'Activities you might like' right here