No matter what time of year you’re in Ushuaia, it’s bound to be a bit chilly and you’re going to want to tuck into some comforting food and drinks. Luckily, there are some delicious culinary specialities waiting to surprise you, and plenty of bars and restaurants to escape the elements.

Some of the dishes you shouldn’t miss down south include the famous Patagonian lamb, cooked on an asado (barbecue), and fresh seafood, particularly king crab (centolla). You should also be sure to drink a submarino (hot chocolate) and some locally brewed craft beer - Cerveza Artesanal Beagle and Cerezería Cape Horn have some great beers on offer. To help you sample all the cuisine on offer, here are some of the best places to eat and drink Ushuaia:

places to eat and drink in ushuaiaUshuaia is home many great authentic bars selling craft beers / Photo by Daytours4u

1. LA ESTANCIA

The quintessential culinary experience in Argentina is a parrilla, or steakhouse. One of Ushuaia’s top offerings is La Estancia, a tenedor libre (all you can eat, for a set price). Here you can enjoy a traditional beef asado or some exquisite Patagonian lamb. La Estancia serves big portions, great salads and side options, and is good value for money.

Address: Corner of Godoy and Av. San Martín

2. BAR IDEAL

This cosy, well-located, pub boasts interesting decor, with flags, shirts and notes from visitors from all over the world. This is a great place to grab a drink and warm up from the chilly Antarctic winds. Bar Ideal also offers decent pub food with reasonable prices.

Address: Av. San Martín 393

3. LA CANTINA FUEGINA DE FREDDY

You can’t leave Ushuaia without tasting the local specialty: king crab. One of the most popular places to try it is La Cantina Fuegina de Freddy. The crab is as fresh as can be - you can see them in tanks when you walk in - and the atmosphere is informal and welcoming. This spot is popular with the locals - and is one of the first places that they’ll recommend to tourists.

Address: Av San Martín 318

4. DUBLIN PUB

Even the southernmost city in the world has an Irish pub! This lively bar is very popular with travellers and locals alike, and you’ll find it busy most nights. This is the perfect spot to get acquainted with the local beers and chat to people from around the world. Standard bar food is also served, including appetizers, sandwiches, burgers and pizza.

Address: 9 de Julio 168

5. LA CABAÑA CASA DE TÉ

If you’re doing a walk up to Martial Glacier, do stop off at the tea house at the start to this trail. The cute decor and beautiful setting from its mountainside position make this the perfect spot to rest after the walk. Enjoy a cup of tea and a cake here, or try the submarino - hot chocolate served as a glass of hot milk with a chocolate bar on the side to be melted into the milk.

Address: Luis Fernando Martial 3560
places to eat and drink in ushuaiaTake refuge from the chilly wind in the cozy Almacén Ramos Generales

6. ALMACÉN RAMOS GENERALES

One of the coziest and quirkiest spots in Ushuaia, this bakery/café should definitely be on your list to visit. The wooden furnishings are decorated with weird and wonderful memorabilia. They serve delicious baked goods, as well as light meals, such as warming soups and quiches. It’s also a good place to grab a quick coffee or beer.

Address: Maipu 749

7. KAUPÉ

This family-run restaurant, situated on a hill overlooking the Ushuaia harbour, is widely acknowledged as one of the best restaurants in Ushuaia. It is not cheap, but the food and service are exceptional. The menu specialises in seafood, but also serves an array of other delicious options. It is recommended that you make a reservation in high season.

Address: Roca 470

8. MARÍA LOLA RESTÓ

For stunning views and a top-class dining experience, you also have the superb option of María Lola. Specialising in seafood, the meals are exquisite and it’s easy to see why the restaurant is so popular with tourists. It’s the perfect setting for couples to enjoy a special meal during their travels.

Address: Deloqui 1048

9. EL VIEJO MARINO RESTAURANT

El Viejo Marino Restaurant is another fantastic, no-fuss option if you’re after seafood. This harbour-front restaurant serves fresh king crab dishes, as well as a range of other delicious fish and seafood. The king crab is well-priced, making it a popular option.

Address: Maipu 227

10. PASO GARIBALDI RESTOBAR

For a great range of Argentine cuisines, such as steak, lamb and the local king crab, at reasonable prices, try Paso Garibaldi RestoBar. Locals love it for its non-pretentious atmosphere, good portion sizes, and delicious food.

Address: Deloqui 133

. . .

Eating out in Ushuaia, like everything else in the southernmost city in the world, is more expensive than the rest of the country, due to its location and harsh conditions. But while you may have to pay a bit more, you can still choose from a great range of places to eat and drink, and tuck into some tasty dishes accompanied by a good drink in a beautiful place.

Planning your trip to this exciting destination? Check out Argentina4u’s selection of tours in Ushuaia.

By: Nicole Eberhard, travel writer and avid explorer, with a Masters in English Literature.