Empanada capital of the world, birthplace of dulce de leche and tango, and, of course, world soccer champion, Argentina is a gastronomically (and otherwise) unique country. Most people may think of steak and wine when they think of Argentinian cuisine, but those are only some of the country’s many delicious offerings.
Historically, Argentina’s food and culture result from a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and Italian influence. Because of this, Latin American foods such as rice and beans, tacos, and anything spicy are surprisingly hard to find in Argentina. The country’s cuisine is more comparable to Italy’s or Spain’s than it is to, say, Mexico’s. Pizza and pasta are everywhere in Buenos Aires, and they are quite delicious.
Meals in Argentina are never rushed; rather, each meal is a social occasion. “Sobremesa,” or post-meal conversation, is typical. Between the hours and 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., cafes are buzzing with people enjoying their evening “merienda” (snack) of coffee or tea and pastries. Family dinners around 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. can last for hours as lively conversation continues.
If you can’t jet off to Argentina anytime soon, taste the flavors of the country at these Westchester restaurants serving traditional foods.
Artesano Empanadas
911 N Broadway J, White Plains; 914.609.8104 (WhatsApp)
Artesano Empanadas is proud to be the first — and only — baked empanada store in Westchester. Traditional Argentinian empanadas are baked, not fried, and usually stuffed with beef, chicken, ham, cheese, and/or vegetables like corn or spinach. Owner and Buenos Aires native Ricardo Saldivar opened this family business in 2023 in White Plains after finding success with his initial Paraguay location.
Everything from the dough to the fillings is made in the store. Saldivar’s industrial machines have the capacity to make 2,000 empanadas per hour! A satisfying variety of savory and sweet empanadas make for the perfect meal, snack, or treat. Aside from the classics, Artesano makes more modern empanadas like buffalo chicken and Nutella brownie. Look out for its new location in New York City this fall.
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Gaucho Burger Company
66-68 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains; 914.750.4888
Argentina is known for its abundance of cows, and, therefore, beef. The culture traditionally uses every part of the cow, serving various cuts of meat and producing top-quality leather. In White Plains, Gaucho Burger Company’s menu is full of Argentinian staples. A variety of empanadas make for a satisfying start to your meal. For heartier fare, the Argentinian beef burger is Gaucho Burger’s specialty. Bife de Chorizo, a sirloin strip steak served with chimichurri sauce, makes for another delicious and flavorful dinner. Opt for the Choripan (Argentina’s version of a hot dog) if you want the quintessential soccer game meal. Chimichurri fries are the perfect burst of flavor on the side of any dish, and dulce de leche pancakes will satisfy your sweet tooth before you leave (and start booking your future trip to Argentina).
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Inca Gaucho
173 Westchester Ave, Port Chester; 914.939.2100
6 Quarropas St, White Plains; 914.607.7962
With two Westchester locations, Inca Gaucho serves mainly Peruvian food with additions of Argentinian and Uruguayan cuisines. Begin with the empanada appetizer for a classic Argentinian experience. For your main course, try the Milanesa Napolitana, a breaded steak or chicken cutlet topped with tomato sauce, ham, and melted mozzarella cheese. Milanesa is a very common Argentinian dish that’s sometimes found on a sandwich for lunch or as a main dish for dinner. Or, indulge in the Parrillada “Gaucho,” an assortment of grilled meats like Argentinian sausage and short rib. Pair your meal with a glass of Malbec wine or Quilmes beer, both produced in Argentina.
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Mimi’s Gelato by Martine’s Fine Bake Shoppe
51 E Parkway A, Scarsdale; 914.881.1144
Italian-style gelato is a staple in Argentina. In the capital city of Buenos Aires, you can find a gelato shop on nearly every block. Mimi’s may not be Argentinian, but its traditional Italian gelato mimics what you would find on the streets of Buenos Aires. The all-natural, freshly made gelato at Mimi’s will transport you to Argentina with one lick. Year-round flavors like pistachio, passionfruit cheesecake, and Kinder Bueno are just as popular at Mimi’s as they are in Argentina. Rotating seasonal flavors like exotic lychee and tropical guava spice up the selection.
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Related: Wanna Empanada Serves up Scrumptious Handhelds in Ossining
