Best Italian Restaurants in South America

Best Italian Restaurants in South America

Curated guide featuring 7 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars

South America's Italian culinary scene is a revelation that goes far beyond what you'd expect from restaurants thousands of miles from Rome or Milan. Here, passionate Italian immigrants and their descendants have created something extraordinary – authentic trattorias and modern Italian kitchens that rival anything you'll find in the motherland. From Buenos Aires' bustling neighborhoods to hidden gems across the continent, these restaurants blend Old World techniques with South American warmth and local ingredients, creating dishes that honor tradition while embracing innovation. The result is Italian dining that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique.

This guide showcases 9 exceptional Italian restaurants that have earned their stellar reputations through consistently outstanding food, service, and atmosphere. Each spot featured here boasts at least 4.5 stars from hundreds or thousands of diners, with an impressive collective average of 4.6 stars. You'll discover everything from intimate family-run trattorias serving hand-rolled pasta to upscale establishments pushing the boundaries of Italian cuisine. Whether you're craving perfect risotto, house-made gnocchi, or innovative interpretations of classic dishes, these restaurants represent the very best of South America's thriving Italian food scene.

Featured Restaurants

Trattoria Mamma Mia
$$

Trattoria Mamma Mia

★★★★☆
4.6
(6,243 reviews)

This beloved Salta gem has won over thousands of diners with its warm, authentic Italian atmosphere and consistently satisfying dishes that keep locals and travelers coming back. With nearly 6,250 glowing reviews, Trattoria Mamma Mia clearly delivers on both quality and value, making it a reliable choice for anyone craving comfort food in Argentina's northwest. Arrive early during peak dinner hours to avoid the crowds that this popular spot inevitably draws.

Pje. Zorrilla 1, A4400 Salta, Argentina
Cucina D'Onore
$$$

Cucina D'Onore

★★★★☆
4.5
(4,733 reviews)

Cucina D'Onore stands out in Buenos Aires' Puerto Madero district with its diverse menu that draws from various international cuisines, creating a cosmopolitan dining experience that appeals to locals and travelers alike. With nearly 5,000 glowing reviews and a stellar 4.5-star rating, diners consistently praise the restaurant's quality and service, making it a reliable choice for a memorable meal. Book ahead for dinner service, as this popular waterfront spot tends to fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Av. Alicia Moreau de Justo 1768, C1107 AFJ, Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Piegari Ristorante
$$

Piegari Ristorante

★★★★☆
4.5
(1,619 reviews)

This highly-rated Buenos Aires gem on elegant Posadas street has earned a devoted following among both locals and travelers, with over 1,600 Google reviewers praising its welcoming atmosphere and consistently excellent food across multiple cuisines. The impressive 4.5-star rating speaks to Piegari Ristorante's ability to deliver memorable dining experiences that keep guests coming back. Make reservations ahead of time, as this popular spot tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak dinner hours.

Posadas 1042, C1011 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Italpast | Faena Buenos Aires
$$

Italpast | Faena Buenos Aires

★★★★☆
4.8
(1,508 reviews)

Nestled within the stylish Faena Buenos Aires, Italpast delivers an exceptional dining experience that has earned rave reviews from over 1,500 satisfied guests, boasting an impressive 4.8-star rating. This popular restaurant attracts travelers and locals alike with its diverse menu offerings and upscale yet welcoming atmosphere in the trendy Puerto Madero district. Book ahead to secure a table at this consistently excellent spot, as its stellar reputation and prime location make it a sought-after dining destination.

Juana Manso 1450, C1107 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Di Como
$$

Di Como

★★★★☆
4.7
(1,437 reviews)

Di Como has earned a stellar reputation among Bariloche visitors with its diverse menu that caters to every palate, creating a welcoming atmosphere where both locals and travelers gather for consistently excellent meals. With nearly 1,500 glowing reviews, this mid-range gem clearly delivers on both quality and value, making it a reliable choice in the heart of San Carlos de Bariloche. Book ahead or arrive early, as popular spots like this tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

San Martín 594, R8400 San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina
0294 459-4000
Biasatti Pastificio e Tratto Ristorante Pastas Italianas. Restaurante en Belgrano
$$

Biasatti Pastificio e Tratto Ristorante Pastas Italianas. Restaurante en Belgrano

★★★★☆
4.5
(616 reviews)

This beloved Belgrano gem brings authentic Italian pasta-making to Buenos Aires, where fresh handmade noodles and traditional recipes create an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a Roman trattoria. With an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 600 reviews, travelers consistently praise the quality and authenticity that keeps locals and visitors returning. Make reservations ahead of time, as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially during weekend dinner service.

Cdad. de la Paz 1917, C1428 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buono
$$

Buono

★★★★☆
4.5
(531 reviews)

Buono lives up to its name with a diverse menu that draws both locals and travelers to this bustling Buenos Aires gem, earning an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 500 diners who rave about the consistently good food and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant's varied cuisine offerings mean there's something for every palate, making it a reliable choice when traveling with a group with different tastes. Book ahead or arrive early since this popular spot fills up quickly, especially during peak dinner hours.

San Martín 1225 1275, C1104 Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina

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