When you think of Mendoza, what probably comes to mind is a glass of deep, rich Malbec paired with a perfectly cooked steak. And while that’s absolutely worth every Instagram post, let’s not forget the unsung heroes of Mendoza's culinary scene—the street foods. These are the bites that locals love, the snacks that fuel your wine-fueled adventures, and the flavors that make you want to book your next flight back before you’ve even left. Let’s dive into the must-try Argentinian street foods in Mendoza that’ll make your taste buds do the tango.
Let’s start with the MVP of Argentinian street food—the empanada. If you’ve never had one, think of it as a handheld pie, but way more exciting. Mendoza’s version is typically baked and filled with juicy beef, onions, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and sometimes even a sneaky slice of potato. The golden crust is buttery and flaky, providing the perfect vessel for the savory goodness inside.
One of the best places to grab these is El Palenque. Located near the city center, this spot is known for its authentic flavors and has a solid 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor. And trust me, once you bite into their empanada, you’ll know why locals flock here.
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Next up is the choripán, which is essentially Argentina’s answer to the hot dog but on a whole other level. Imagine a juicy chorizo sausage, grilled to perfection, then slapped into a fresh baguette and topped with chimichurri—an herby, garlicky sauce that you’ll want to put on everything.
For the best choripán in Mendoza, head to Torito, a beloved food truck that’s been serving up this classic for years. It’s got that authentic, no-frills vibe that street food is all about, and it’s consistently rated around 4.5 on Tripadvisor.
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Lomito Completo isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a meal. This Argentine creation features thinly sliced steak, ham, lettuce, tomato, fried egg, and mayonnaise, all packed into a giant bun. It’s the kind of thing that makes you loosen your belt and not care one bit.
To get your hands on a Lomito Completo, Barloa in the heart of Mendoza is where you need to be. They’re known for their generous portions and friendly service, boasting a 4.0 Tripadvisor rating. And if you can finish the whole thing, consider it a culinary badge of honor.
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Okay, technically this one’s more of a meal than a snack, but it's so quintessentially Argentine that it had to make the list. Milanesa a la Napolitana is a breaded steak topped with tomato sauce, ham, and melted cheese—think of it as the Argentine love child of schnitzel and pizza.
A great spot to try this is La Marchigiana, a classic Italian-Argentine restaurant with a 4.0 Tripadvisor rating. While not exactly street food, this dish has that comforting, home-cooked feel that’s perfect for when you need a break from all the on-the-go bites.
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Humita is a lesser-known gem that’s basically corn pudding wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection. It’s sweet, savory, and incredibly comforting—a true taste of Argentina’s Andean roots.
You can find humitas at Maria Antonieta, a cozy spot in Mendoza that specializes in traditional Argentine dishes. With a Tripadvisor rating of 4.5, it’s the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy a humble yet delicious dish that’s packed with history.
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When it’s time for something sweet, grab a tortita. These are small, soft, and slightly sweet buns that often come filled with dulce de leche (because of course) or quince paste. They’re perfect with a cup of coffee—or, if you’re like me, just on their own because who has time for coffee when there are tortitas to be eaten?
A local favorite is La Veneciana, a bakery with a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor. Their tortitas are always fresh, and they’ve got just the right balance of sweetness without being too heavy.
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Last but not least, sopaipillas are fried dough discs that are as fun to eat as they are to pronounce. These little snacks are usually sprinkled with sugar and sometimes served with jam, making them the ideal on-the-go treat.
For the best sopaipillas, head to Mercado Central de Mendoza. This bustling market has a little bit of everything, but the sopaipillas here are legendary. With a Tripadvisor rating of 4.5, this spot is a must-visit for foodies.
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Mendoza’s street food scene is a vibrant reflection of Argentina’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re munching on empanadas between vineyard tours or grabbing a choripán after a day of exploring, these local eats offer a delicious and authentic taste of Mendoza. So, loosen that belt, grab a napkin, and dive into the flavors that make this city so irresistible. Your stomach will thank you, even if your waistband doesn’t!