UCES District: 8 places to eat, have coffee, or shop with discounts near Campus

Studying at UCES has its perks. Besides being in the very heart of Buenos Aires (just steps from 9 de Julio Avenue and close to the subway and several bus lines), the university has partnerships with great local spots that offer exclusive discounts for its community. If you have classes on Paraguay and Uruguay Streets, or often hang out in the neighborhood, save this list: these are the gems of the UCES District—eight charming spots to make the most of your break between classes or to treat yourself after a final exam.

For the coffee that saves your day

A tasty breakfast before an exam, an afternoon snack with friends, or a special dessert… the UCES District has plenty of options to enjoy. Remember that all these places have special deals with the university, so just show your student ID and you’re golden.

1. Ludlow Coffee House

At Paraguay 1265, you’ll find the Recoleta branch of Ludlow Café—a cozy spot with tables and couches where you can settle in with your laptop, order a flat white, and enjoy your “coffee moment” while studying or working on a group project.

It’s a must for matcha lovers—not only do they have the drink, but also matcha cookies. Our tip? Go for brunch, try a chicken sandwich or avocado toast, and order the pistachio bow pastry for dessert.

Insider info: UCES students and faculty get 20% off all products.

2. Café Coltrane

Brand new in the neighborhood and serving irresistible croissants. Located at Córdoba 1515, Café Coltrane lives up to its name with a vibrant atmosphere and Puerto Blest specialty coffee (translation: seriously good).

There’s plenty of space to study with friends. Open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., so go early and enjoy some quality jazz while you work.

Insider info: UCES community members get 10% off the total bill.

3. Dos Monos Café

The perfect corner to kill time between classes or grab a coffee before heading in. In addition to a 10% discount for UCES students and faculty, this café oozes charm. Run by its owners, it serves specialty coffee and a wide selection of gluten-free products. Located at Uruguay 945, open from 7 a.m. to 7:15 p.m.

Insider info: The star here is the vanilla cookie with chocolate chips—but check the display case for the day’s temptations: options often include Kinder bar pieces, chocolate candies, and more.

Also of interest: UCES tells you the future: What’s coming in 2025 and 2026

For a tasty (discounted) meal

Sometimes time is tight… and so is your stomach! Luckily, the UCES District offers plenty of quick, quality meal options with special perks just for the university community. From express grills to trendy cafés with sweet and savory bites, these spots will become your go-to in the area.

1. Brasa del Diablo

Some days you just need a good, hearty steak—but don’t have time for a long lunch at a grill. That’s where Brasa del Diablo comes in: the neighborhood’s “fast grill.” Think fast food, but in parrilla form. Genius, right?

For a well-deserved lunch, grab a seat at the bar, enjoy their grilled meats, and don’t miss the Papas del Diablo—worth every bite. The fried empanadas are also excellent. Located at Talcahuano 884, with delivery available.

Insider info: 10% off the menu for the UCES community when paying in cash or by bank transfer.

2. Baco Bar y Café

At Talcahuano 869, you’ll find Baco—home to the neighborhood’s friendliest French bulldog (and the owners’ fur baby). Give it a little scratch while enjoying something tasty at their comfy tables.

Open from early morning until 7 p.m., serving sweet and savory options. Show your UCES ID for 15% off the total bill.

3. UniCoffee

A franchise designed specifically for university students, UniCoffee is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful study spot. Go solo or with friends, grab a wrap if you’re craving something savory, or a slice of cake with a latte for a laid-back study session. This cozy, practical café is at Paraná 815 and open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Insider info: UCES community members get 25% off all products. Yes, really.

For reading pleasure

University life isn’t all textbooks and lecture notes. Sometimes you need to lose yourself in the pages of a great novel, hunt for a special edition, or simply enjoy a relaxing reading session. If you love browsing bookstores, the UCES District has two unmissable gems.

1. Librería Anticuaria Figueroa

Located at Libertad 966, this is not your average bookstore—it’s a true mecca for book lovers. Here you’ll find rare books, first editions, out-of-print works, and treasures from the past. Perfect for finding your next prized possession and then heading to the nearby plaza to enjoy it in the sun.

Insider info: Pay in cash or via bank transfer and get 20% off if you’re part of the UCES community.

2. KEL Ediciones

Any bilingual English reader worth their salt knows (and loves) KEL. They stock not only the textbooks you need for language classes but also novels, short stories, and more—for children, teens, and adults.

If you have a gap between classes, drop in and be transported to a magical world filled with the scent of new books and endless stories to discover. Located at Marcelo T. de Alvear 864.

Insider info: Students and faculty get 10% off with all payment methods, plus the option to pay in three interest-free installments.

As you can see, being part of UCES comes with benefits that extend beyond the classroom. The UCES District awaits with great food, coffee, and cultural experiences to make the most of every break, recess, or free moment between classes. Remember to bring your student ID to access all these discounts, and explore the places that make this neighborhood a unique space for students, faculty, and the entire university community.