It’s been a rum old year for the restaurant business. Bums on seats are down, as, too, are the numbers of tourists flying in as the blue dollar bonanza bubble has burst while menu prices have skyrocketed. It’s a tough economic environment out there, and if it’s not hyperinflation, Milei’s shock therapy will do it for you. Not exactly a blend conducive to concluding 2025 on a high. Despite the rollercoaster ride of ups and downs, there have been positives in the shape of awards and accolades along the way to boost our beloved and hard-working gastronomy scene.

While some doubted that a second Michelin guide would come to light, you have to remember that a deal was struck with the French publisher; the public money had long been allocated and the fees paid up. Some 80 restaurants located in Buenos Aires and Mendoza featured in the 2025 online guide (we, as in Argentina, didn’t pay for a hard copy), up almost 10 percent on the November 2023 one, including three establishments receiving first-time stars — Crizia in Palermo Hollywood, Riccitelli Bistró in Las Compuertas, and Angélica Cocina Maestra in Agrelo, the latter two in Mendoza. To date, the Argentine constellation shines brightly with nine one-star venues (all maintained their stars from 2023), and 10 overall, including two-star Aramburu. Meanwhile, those that received recommendations hang their red-and-white plaque with pride (although probably inside the establishment to ensure no nasty nimble........

© Buenos Aires Herald