---
title: Do I need restaurant reservations?
description: "[Home](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com) | [Docs](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs/) | [Food and Drinks](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs-category/food-and-drinks/) In **Buenos Aires**, whether you need a restaurant reservation really depends on the type of place you’re going: ## 🍽️ When You *Should* Make Reservations - **High-end parrillas (steakhouses):** e.g., *Don Julio*, *La…"
url: "https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs/do-i-need-restaurant-reservations/"
updated: "2025-09-08"
category: Food and Drinks
tags:
  - Local Customs
---

# Do I need restaurant reservations?

[Home](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com) | [Docs](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs/) | [Food and Drinks](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs-category/food-and-drinks/)

In **Buenos Aires**, whether you need a restaurant reservation really depends on the type of place you’re going:

## 🍽️ When You *Should* Make Reservations

- **High-end parrillas (steakhouses):** e.g., *Don Julio*, *La Cabrera*, [*El Mirasol*](https://www.elmirasol.com.ar/en/page/welcome-el-mirasol-1967-%C2%ABthe%C2%BB-steakhouse-argentineans). These are very popular with both locals and tourists, and often **booked weeks in advance**, especially weekends.
- **Trendy restaurants in Palermo Soho/Hollywood:** e.g., *Proper*, *Mishiguene*, *Casa Cavia*. Hotspots for foodies — reservations strongly recommended.
- **Tasting menus / fine dining:** e.g., *Tegui*, [*Aramburu*](https://www.arambururesto.com.ar/). Absolutely require advance booking.

## 🥘 When You Can Usually Walk In

- **Casual parrillas** (neighborhood steakhouses): Many don’t take reservations; just show up (better before 9 PM when crowds start).
- **Cafés, bodegones, and traditional eateries:** Typically first-come, first-served.
- **Lunch spots:** Except for business-heavy areas, you’ll usually find a table without booking.

## ⏰ Timing Matters

- [Locals eat **late**](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs/what-time-do-locals-eat-dinner/) — dinner often starts around **9–10 PM**. If you show up at **7–8 PM**, you’re more likely to get a table without a reservation.
- Weekends are the busiest, especially in Palermo and [San Telmo](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/item/san-telmo/).

## ✅ Quick Takeaway

- For **famous parrillas and trendy restaurants** → **YES, book ahead**.
- For **casual meals, cafés, or neighborhood spots** → **no reservation needed**.
- If in doubt, call or check Instagram — many BA restaurants manage bookings via WhatsApp or apps like **Restorando**.