Bar El Federal

Description:

• This bar and restaurant, on a quiet corner in San Telmo, presents a beautiful step back in time. Fortunately, as another bar notable, it will stay that way forever. The first thing that strikes you is the massive, carved-wood and stained-glass ornamental stand over the bar area. Local patrons sit at the old tables whiling away their time, chatting, or sitting with a book and drinking tea or espresso. The original tile floor remains, and old signs, portraits, and small antique machines decorate this space. In business since 1864, Bar El Federal is among the most Porteño of places in San Telmo, a neighborhood with more of these establishments than any other area. Some of the staff has been here for decades on end, and proudly so. Food is a collection of small, simple things, mostly sandwiches, steaks, lomos (sirloin cuts), with a very large salad selection. High-quality pastries are also served to complement the menu.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010