The Argentine Experience — Restaurant in Autonomous City of Buenos Aires

Boy, did I step out of my box for this one. And truthfully, I'm glad I did!

One of our activities in Buenos Aires was to this empanada-making class that included dinner. If you're thinking "I'm not a chef or cook, I just love to eat" like I was, stow it! It was really fun. This coming from a guy who loathes communal tables!

ATMOSPHERE: The two level biz does dual experiences of different food types at almost the same time. Downstairs features a bar and communal high top, and the upstairs where we were, had a service bar (no seats) and another communal high top.

THE EXPERIENCE: My spouse and I arrived, were bubbly greeted and were taken upstairs where 4 of the 19 total students were already seated. What an odd moment of silence this was as I'm not a very friendly individual at the get-go. Glasses of wine mixed with apple juice was served, with white wine next. As the room filled, the odd silence was finally broken as more individuals gathered, making small conversation. We met a family from Australia, California and Georgia. Everyone had a great time!

Our "teacher" told stories in a comedic way and provided info on the food being presented.

Then started the endless follow of red wine throughout the evening.

First up was Patagonian trout tartar served on a crostini. It was good, and a light app to start with.

We then started the empanada making with a history lesson then hands-on work. We made two empanadas, one the traditional way, the second one being a creative piece of our own to be judged and awarded with a pic on their Facebook page. After sending the traditional one back to be cooked, we then had 10 minutes to create a masterpiece of our own. I had intended on making an American football, but after forming my empanada, a cat's face was beginning to take shape, which I the spent the entire 10 minutes doing!

Then, our traditional empanadas were served, along with a hot ceramic platter of cheese balls, a spread of blood & chorizo sausages and lemony-flavored pork strips.

Then, another platter comes out full of potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, parsnip and sliced corn on the cob, along with a good-sized cut of filet mignon, cooked perfectly.

For dessert was a mini spatula with two cubes of cheese on it topped with an orange and brown cube each, that we were to guess what they were. Turns out the orange one was pumpkin and the brown one was tree fibers soaked in a sugar mixture, which texture wise was very fibrous. Then, we made our own dulce de leche macaroons, dipped in ground coconut and melted chocolate.

Last but not least was making our own maté tea. A cup with a steel self-filtering straw, hot water and dried maté tea leaves were brought out. We filled the cup halfway with tea, cupped the top with our palm and shook it to "dust" the tea. Add water and enjoy. Tasted like ordinary tea to me.

The creative empanada winner was announced and sadly it wasn't yours truly. We then took a group photo and said our goodbyes.

OVERALL: So why not 5 stars? Table seating was tight, and I couldn't see some of the demos since the instructor was at the opposite end of the table. Still, a fun thing...

Let me be VERY clear. This was one of the most fun experiences that I had while in Buenos Aires! OMG. The entire team was INCREDIBLE. We had Polie, Candela, Laura, Valentina, and Manuel. Each one of them were so welcoming, nice, knowledgeable, and engaging. Also, the entire team was SO FUN AND FUNNY! I had such a ball with non-stop laughing and amazement. They had a delicious cocktail that you had to guess the ingredients. FUN! The red and white wine constantly flowed. FUN! Making my own empanada, alfajor, and mate were also SO MUCH FUN! I also enjoyed learning about the different items that we were eating and ate so many new things too, which I was definitely excited about. Each of the hosts were so patient and down to earth and made me feel such at ease while also being professional! My friend and I also made friends with 2 other people there and they were so great so the entire experience was truly unforgettable. The atmosphere and ambience were so incredible! And making my own empanada so truly the best part. Learning about the different types of folding, using the fillings, and understanding the culture and stories behind everything the hosts talked about--I loved it so much. This is something I cannot wait to come back and experience and bring someone else with as well. I implore you PLEASE DO NOT hesitate to sign up for this. RUN! Because it's just that amazing! It was...

🌟 A Night to Remember at The Argentine Experience! 🌟

From the first welcome toast to the last sip of Malbec, The Argentine Experience in Buenos Aires delivered an evening that was nothing short of spectacular. The flavors were out of this world — a vibrant journey through Argentine cuisine, perfectly paired with local wines that enhanced every bite. Each dish was not just delicious but deeply rooted in culture and storytelling.

What truly made the evening unforgettable, though, were our hosts Stephanie, Kandie and Vladimir. Their personable, warm, and highly attentive approach transformed a great experience into an extraordinary one. They didn’t just serve food — they created magic with their energy, humor, and attention to detail, ensuring every guest felt connected and fully immersed in the moment.

Stephano’s passion for Argentine culture and cuisine was infectious, while Kandie’s and Vladimir’s charm and care brought a level of hospitality that’s rare to find. Together, they crafted a night full of laughter, learning, and unforgettable memories.

If you’re in Buenos Aires and want more than just a meal — if you’re looking for a sensory, social, and cultural experience — this is it. Truly one of the highlights of our trip.

Five stars,...