We can’t talk about Mendocino cuisine without leading with asado, Argentina’s answer to barbecue but on a much grander scale. This isn't just a meal; it's an event. Cuts of beef, pork, and sausages (known as chorizo) are slow-cooked over an open flame, seasoned with nothing more than salt and a little patience.

For the ultimate asado experience, you have to visit 1884 Restaurante, owned by celebrity chef Francis Mallmann. Located in an old winery, 1884 delivers on both atmosphere and authenticity. They’ve earned a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor, and their asado is legendary. Plus, the rustic outdoor cooking setup adds to the whole experience. 

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No trip to Mendoza would be complete without sampling empanadas mendocinas. These flaky pastries are filled with ground beef, onions, hard-boiled eggs, and a few olives for that extra briny kick. Unlike other Argentine empanadas, Mendocinas are typically baked rather than fried, making them slightly lighter (but no less addictive).

One of the best places to grab these is at La Lucia, which has earned a 4.5 Tripadvisor rating for its excellent renditions of traditional dishes. Their empanadas are always fresh out of the oven and pair beautifully with—you guessed it—Malbec.

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Feeling a bit chilly after a day of wine tasting in the Andes foothills? You’ll want a bowl of locro, a thick, hearty stew made from corn, beans, and various meats like pork and chorizo. It's a dish deeply rooted in Argentina’s indigenous heritage, and it’s the perfect comfort food on those cooler Mendocino evenings.

For an authentic locro experience, head over to Fuente y Fonda. This restaurant specializes in home-style Argentine cuisine, earning a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor for its warm, nostalgic ambiance and generous portions. Locro is a seasonal dish, so if you’re visiting in winter, make sure to ask for it

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Another dish you can’t miss is humita en chala. Think of it as Argentina’s answer to tamales but with a twist. Fresh corn is ground into a paste and mixed with cheese, milk, and sometimes onions, before being wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection. It’s mildly sweet, creamy, and makes for the perfect vegetarian option (though you might not stay vegetarian long in Mendoza).

You’ll find an excellent rendition of humita at Maria Antonieta, which is rated 4.0 on Tripadvisor for its mix of traditional and contemporary Argentine dishes. Grab a seat on their outdoor patio and dig into this hidden gem.

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If you're in the mood for something unique, try carbonada, a stew that combines beef, potatoes, corn, and dried fruits like peaches or apricots. What makes it stand out? It's often served inside a hollowed-out pumpkin, making it as Instagrammable as it is delicious.

You can find a superb version of carbonada at El Palenque, known for its rustic yet refined take on Argentine classics. With a 4.5 Tripadvisor rating, this restaurant is the go-to for anyone wanting a true taste of Mendoza’s culinary traditions.

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For a dish that’ll leave you in a delightful food coma, order milanesa a la napolitana. It’s essentially a breaded, fried steak topped with tomato sauce, ham, and melted cheese. Think of it as schnitzel meets pizza—because why settle for just one type of deliciousness?

Head to La Marchigiana, a longstanding favorite among locals and tourists alike, with a 4.5 Tripadvisor rating. Their milanesa is big enough to share (though you might not want to) and pairs perfectly with a side of fries and a glass of Malbec.

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Simple but absolutely essential, choripán is a grilled chorizo sausage served in a crusty baguette, topped with chimichurri sauce. It’s the perfect grab-and-go snack, especially if you’re hopping from one wine tasting to the next.

For the best choripán in Mendoza, Torito is where you need to be. It’s not fancy, but that’s the beauty of it. With a 4.0 Tripadvisor rating, this little street food joint delivers big flavor without the fuss.

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Let’s not forget about dessert! Argentina’s beloved dulce de leche is everywhere, but it truly shines in Mendoza’s dessert scene. Whether it’s spread on alfajores (soft, crumbly cookies) or drizzled over crepes, this caramel-like confection is a must-try.

You can find some of the best dulce de leche desserts at Azafrán, a top-rated spot on Tripadvisor (4.5 stars) known for its incredible tasting menus and perfectly executed desserts. If you leave without trying their dulce de leche creations, you’re doing Mendoza wrong.

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