La Biela

Originally a small sidewalk cafe and grocery opened in 1850, La Biela earned its distinction as the rendezvous choice of race-car champions and early car-owning pioneers. Biela itself is a Spanish word referring to an engine's connecting rod. Black-and-white photos of early Argentine car enthusiasts and racers decorate the huge dining room. Today artists, politicians, and neighborhood executives (as well as a very large number of tourists) all frequent La Biela, which serves breakfast, informal lunch plates, ice cream, and crepes. The outdoor terrace sits beneath an enormous 19th-century ombu tree, opposite the Church of Nuestra Señora del Pinar and the adjoining Recoleta Cemetery. You'll often see live street tango under the tree on weekends. This place ranks among the most important cafes in the city and is a protected bar notable. It has some of the best sidewalk viewing anywhere in Recoleta, but I also love looking into La Biela's windows at night, when the place takes on a sepia glow. You might just feel like you're in Paris when you come here.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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