Checking out Microcentro

Location:
Microcentro, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Other Activity

By Shawn O'Bryant

The Microcenter is often described as the heart of Buenos Aires. Avendia de Mayo runs through its center, linking Plaza de Mayo, Casa Rosada and the executive branch of government with Plaza Congresso and the legislative branch. In between are countless shops, restaurants, bars, clubs, statues, foot-malls, parks, banks and fountains. All of the major “Subte” (subway) stations can be accessed, and offer easy transport to most sections of the greater city. The area is fairly safe and is constantly the sight of political action in the form of protests, parades and fireworks.

PLACES TO STAY

(All prices in USD.)

The Clan (Aldofo Alsina 912, Tel. 5411 4334 3401, www.hostelclan.com.ar)

The Clan is the place to land first in B.A. to get your bearings. Filled with information, friendly and exceptionally helpful staff, The Clan has established itself securely in the center of the backpacker scene. Expect loud music blasting from the rooftop bar, nightly events such as authentic all you can eat “Parillas” (BBQ’s), and a rowdy yet family-like atmosphere. A nice kitchen is available as well as a ping pong table, and the “backpackers museum,” filled with artifacts from minions of past travelers who swear by the Clan. Free Internet and breakfast, and an on-sight Spanish school. Dorm: $9; double: $20. All rooms have shared bathrooms.

Portal del Sur (Hipolito Yrigoyen 855, Tel. 5411 4342 8788, www.portaldelsureba.com.ar) A bit quieter than some of the other hostels, Portal del Sur is clean and comfortable. It has a great view from its rooftop terrace and includes free wireless Internet. Also check out the free salsa and tango lessons! Dorm with private bath: $13.50, without private bath: $12. Private Rooms include cable TV and private bath. Single: $40; double: $50; triple $60; quadruple: $77.

Santo (Salta 170, Tel. 5411 50316818, www.santohostel.com ) Newly opened Santo is a no-nonsense hostel, clean and basic. Talk to Andres the owner, and he will be happy to answer any questions about the city. Santo includes a real espresso machine at the café and there is no smoking indoors which can be a rarity in BA. Dorm: $10, Double w/ bath: $40, w/o bath: $25.

PLACES TO EAT

(All prices in USD.)

The best idea when hungry in the Microcentro is to head towards Avenida de Mayo and just take a stroll. Hotdog stands, fine dining, coffe shops, authentic Argentine restaurants, Asian food, pizza, North American fast food restaurants and anything you could want can all be found on this strip.

Café Tortoni (Avenida de Mayo, 825, Reservations: 5411 4342 8299) Opened in 1858, Café Tortoni is the oldest restaurant in Buenos Aires and remains a local favorite. Its significant historic relevance is certainly part of the allure and the restaurant has seen patrons such as Albert Einstein and all manner of important Argentine historical figures. Finely dressed waiters and a sparkling interior give the impression of fine dining but the menu remains unbelievably affordable. During weekends and holidays the line to get in the door can stretch down the street and reservations are occasionally necessary. $3.50 gets you a sandwich, and a famous Argentine steak will cost about $10.

Restaurante Flor De Mayo (Avenida de Mayo 1124, Tel: 5411 4381 6985) Flor de Mayo, an all you can eat Chinese food buffet is the place to go to kill a deep hunger. An amazing salad bar is also included in the all-you-can-eat price, which offers a variety of greens and veggies for anyone who has been missing large and colorful salads. Entrees are also sold individually and Argentine dishes are sold alongside Asian delicacies. The buffet starts at $6, and includes a drink. Make sure to practice clean plate mentality because an extra charge may be applied for wasted food.