El Cuartito… More Than Just a Pizzería

Pizza is incredibly popular in Buenos Aires. There are a great number of pizzerias all around the city. I have written about my favorite pizzeria, Las Cuartetas. Yet another place to eat what has become one of the most typical dishes is one of the liveliest pizza restaurants in the city. In fact, to call El Cuartito a restaurant is to do it less than justice.

In two large rooms the establishment acts as a social hub for residents of the Barrio Norte neighbourhood and provides a fascinating insight into local customs for visitors to the city. The walls are covered with posters of three main local obsessions: tango, futbol and boxing, all from many different eras. Wherever you look you can’t avoid seeing pictures of Carlos Gardel, Diego Maradona, or Carlos Monzon.

Busy day and night, El Cuartito really comes alive at 11 o’clock at night and afterwards. If you have been out elsewhere for the evening, it is a good place to drop in late for a chopp (1/2 pint of beer) or copa de vino (glass of wine). Standing at the stainless steel counter is perfectly acceptable, but for the real experience take a seat in either of the two main rooms, order some pizza from the menu pasted on the wall, some red wine or beer and be prepared for a taste experience.

Just remember that when the menu describes a pizza as grande (big) this is not an exaggeration. Still, pizzas come in 3 different sizes, served on a wooden platter, with generous toppings and many different flavours. Try the gorgonzola, spicy sausage or whatever you fancy, to yourself or to share with a friend. Wash it down with a bottle of excellent Argentine Malbec or a cold chopp. Also, you can try empanadas (the best in town). Just order empanada de carne (my favorite), you will not regret it.

I will be writing about empanadas pretty soon.While enjoying you pizza just take a look around, this is a real place for locals. Notice how many of the customers shake hands with the waiters and with staff behind the counter when they first come in. It is popular with all ages and is especially welcoming to families. As you leave at 1 am or after, don’t be surprised to find the place still packed with young and old alike, with more coming through the door for that last essential slice of pizza.

On the way out why not pick up one of the interesting series of pamphlets entitled “Historias Reales de Nuestro Barrio” and read how local residents helped to shape the story of Buenos Aires.

Pizzería El Cuartito

Talcahuano 937

4816-1758

Photo Credit: http://www.planeteye.com/Media/1072007?refcon=sidebar&refid=0

Related places:

1. A
   Buenos Aires

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2. B
   Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires

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3. C
   Talcahuano 937, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires

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