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Buenos Aires, Argentina > Buenos Aires restaurants > El Sanjuanino El SanjuaninoPosadas 1515 (@ Callao); Tel. +(011.54.11) 4804-2909/ 4805-2683
 El Sanjuanino's sign is Recoleta's version of the golden arches where diners can decide for themselves if these are the best empanadas in town. Photo by Clare Nisbet. Those lucky enough to find a table at this bustling Recoleta institute can read a quotation on their paper placemat from a Mexican diner who commented: “Comer es un acto Biológico. Comer en El Sanjuanino es un acto cultural” or “Eating is a biological act. Eating at El Sanjuanino is a cultural act.” Truer words may never have been spoken about this sidestreet gem and for those that don’t believe everything they hear, maybe the line (that typically stretches out the door and down the block) will persuade them that this is a place worth stopping. Upon stepping inside the small café, diners may be greeted in Spanish, English, Portuguese, Italian, or a mix of everything. The unbelievably hard-working staff is welcoming, chatty, and even manage to keep their cool under the barrage of pressure for constant consumption. The restaurant consists of little more than 10 or so typical, wood tables, a busy counter, and some traditional décor. The only reason to visit is what are generally regarded as the best empanadas in town, by residents and tourists alike. El Sanjuanino’s empanadas are delicious and famously so. They offer up all the usual favorites for about $2AR each with particularly delicious carne picante (spicy meat), choclo (corn), and neopolitana (basil, mozzarella, and tomato). Also on offer are yummy tamales and traditional locro (hearty Argentinean pork stew) for $8AR. There are plenty of other choices on the menu including pastas ($9-$15AR), fresh salads, and meat and cheese plates ($9-15AR) to keep you occupied but the best of El Sanjuanino is what El Sanjuanino knows best – empanadas, empanadas, empanadas. Food is delicious and fresh, service is friendly, and in such a great location in the midst of sightseeing madness, El Sanjuanino is a fantastic pit stop if you are lucky enough to squeeze in. —El Sanjuanino review by Clare Nisbet
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