Tigre Morado in Palermo: Peruvian Cuisine and a Secret Bar

Tigre Morado offers a Peruvian dining experience that brings together ceviches, tiraditos, traditional dishes and signature cocktails in an atmosphere inspired by the Pacific coast. The restaurant invites guests to share a variety of dishes, from fresh starters and causas to classics such as lomo saltado and desserts that deserve a special place at the table.

The experience also comes with an unexpected attraction: Under Bar, a hidden space accessed via a small staircase inside the restaurant. With its intimate atmosphere, mirrors and cocktail bar, it's an appealing option for anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion or discover a different side of Palermo. During our visit, we sampled several dishes from the menu and explored the details that make Tigre Morado a great choice for couples, groups of friends and midweek get-togethers.

When Tigre Morado first opened in Palermo, its concept stood out for offering something different. The tables and chairs lining the pavement, the music and the aromas hinted at an experience that would transport diners to the Pacific coast. Inside, dim lighting, sea-inspired décor and wicker furniture reinforced that feeling. At a time when this style of Peruvian cuisine was still relatively uncommon in Buenos Aires, the restaurant became a pioneer.

We visited on a Thursday, and the dining room was packed. There was a mix of groups at the tables, from large birthday celebrations to couples and groups of friends enjoying dinner together. The atmosphere was lively, and everyone seemed to be having a great time. Our server, Ley, explained that we could start with appetisers, move on to a few sharing plates and then try the mains, or simply continue ordering small dishes to share.

The food: Peruvian flavours from start to finish

We began with two drinks inspired by Peruvian tradition: the classic Chicha Morada and La Serena, a cocktail made with Pisco 1615, passion fruit, ginger beer, Britvic and mint.

Our first starter was the Tiradito Parma, a new addition to the menu. The dish combines thin slices of white fish dressed in a delicate scallop sauce, seasonal vegetables and subtle flavours of the sea. Its presentation makes you want to dive in before the first bite, while the balanced citrus notes turn each mouthful into a delicate experience, with a texture reminiscent of an amuse-bouche.

Next came the Causa Dos Tartar, a combination of yellow potatoes, prawn tartare, avocado, trout tartare, a small egg, nori, ceviche-style cream, togarashi and chives. With its contrasting textures and flavours, the dish brought us a little closer to Lima.

Of course, no visit to Tigre Morado would be complete without trying a ceviche. We chose the Ceviche Carretillero, made with white fish, rocoto chilli leche de tigre and criolla-style salsa, served with crispy fried fish. The heat is perfectly balanced, adding character without overpowering the other ingredients.

For our main course, we chose a Peruvian classic: Lomo Salteado, prepared with chillies, onions, a fried egg and all the rich flavours of wok cooking. The beef stands out for its beautifully balanced, savoury flavour. The potatoes, although not fried, also deserve a mention: they're cooked to perfection, striking just the right balance between a crispy exterior and a creamy centre.

To round off the experience, we tried the Churritos en sus salsas, dusted with icing sugar and served with dulce de leche. As a devoted churros fan who has tried them in all sorts of places and styles, I was surprised by just how delicate the dough was.

The sugar has a subtle citrus twist that balances the sweetness and adds an unexpected touch. The dough, however, is the real star: a must-try for anyone who loves churros and pastries in general.

On a previous visit, I had also tried the Chocoteja, another dessert well worth considering. The combination of creamy chocolate and caramelised chulpi corn, olive oil and salt creates a contrast of flavours and textures that earns it a place among the menu's highlights.

A restaurant for every occasion

Tigre Morado is a great choice for all kinds of plans: a romantic date, a birthday celebration with friends, after-work drinks or a girls' night out. Its lively atmosphere and the opportunity to share several dishes make it equally suited to a casual evening or a special celebration.

The brand has three locations in and around Buenos Aires:

• Palermo: Honduras 5900. This is the location we visited.

• Costanera: Av. Costanera Rafael Obligado 185.

• Olivos: Av. Del Libertador 2405.

Insider tip: a secret bar hidden inside Tigre Morado

The Palermo location hides a space that's not immediately visible to everyone: Under Bar. Even after stepping inside the restaurant, it still feels like a well-kept secret. The intrigue begins when you discover a small staircase leading downstairs.

At the bottom, you'll find an intimate setting decorated with mirrors and a striking bar that stands out for its design. The drinks menu features an extensive selection of spirits and signature cocktails, all served in an atmosphere that invites you to settle in and enjoy something a little different.

Thanks to its private, intimate atmosphere, Under Bar is also a great option for celebrating a birthday with your closest friends and family. A hidden gem within Tigre Morado that adds another dimension to the experience.