Eating at the Counter (and Not Sushi)

Grasa is one of the most talked-about openings in Villa Crespo and, although it specializes in burgers, it plays in a different league. There are no combos or disposable trays here: burgers come on real plates, paired with wines by the glass, in a space that’s part vintage, part cool—complete with table service and a counter that steals the show.

While there are tables both outside and inside, the best seat is undoubtedly the counter facing the kitchen: a low stainless-steel surface with comfortable stools where you can watch the entire process. The menu is short and to the point—three well-thought-out burgers: a cheeseburger with cucumber pickles; a classic with cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and onion; and a monthly special that allows for creative flavor play.

The patties are thin and perfectly crispy; the buns support without stealing the spotlight; and the melted cheddar balances every bite. Music sets the mood without overpowering it, and the vibe is relaxed—ideal for burger lovers who also appreciate atmosphere and good service. Soft-serve ice cream is coming soon, promising a happy ending.

Tip: Highly recommended for a 30+ crowd. Walk-ins only from 7:30 pm.

Where: Acevedo 986, Villa Crespo.

By now, Evelia needs little introduction. Opened in 2024 by Máximo Togni, it quickly earned its place on the Buenos Aires scene thanks to its house-made pastas and product-driven cooking. What many don’t notice right away is the spectacular counter facing the kitchen—perfect for experiencing the restaurant from a different angle.

High, long, comfortable, and well-lit, the counter lets you watch the team in action as dishes come out that blend technique with simplicity. Beyond pastas made with Italian flours and top-quality ingredients, the menu includes artisanal charcuterie, Mediterranean-inspired starters, well-executed milanesas, and house-made ice creams.

Tip: Ideal for solo diners or couples looking to linger—this is a counter that invites you to stay.

Where: Campos Salles 1712, Núñez.

Since opening in August 2025, Silvino has been racking up praise. Chef Gaspar Natiello offers simple, straightforward, well-executed cooking with a price-to-quality ratio that’s increasingly rare. The vibe is relaxed and inclusive: families, couples, groups of friends—and a counter with a growing fan base—all coexist comfortably.

Also of interest: The new generation of Buenos Aires foodies: 27 openings to add to your map

In a dining room with nods to old-school bistros, the counter with high-backed stools becomes the best spot for a date or a night out for two. Mirrors, shelves of bottles, and low lighting create a warm setting for a sharing-driven experience.

The move is to order several plates and go with the flow: house-made chicken liver pâté, raw catch of the day, kale fritters, and baby squid amatriciana with crushed potatoes.

Tip: The wine list surprises with unexpected labels and friendly prices.

Where: Guevara 421, Chacarita.

Orei played a key role in popularizing ramen in Buenos Aires. After years of serving from a small window in Chinatown, it took the next step with a compact dining room and a counter that deepens the experience. The focus remains on rich broths, alkaline noodles, and thoughtful toppings—now with more personalized attention.

The look blends wood, warm lighting, and traditional Japanese tableware. The low counter seats just ten guests, allowing direct interaction with the team and customization of your ramen: broth style, spice level, and extras. This location also adds Japanese preserved items to mix and match.

Another standout is asagohan, the traditional Japanese breakfast centered on balance and well-being: miso soup, the catch of the day with sides, and unlimited green tea. It works as a destination in itself or a strategic stop before or after other plans.

Tip: Walk-in only at lunch and dinner; breakfast is available on weekends.

Where: Echeverría 1677, Belgrano.

Ultramarinos is proof that Argentina’s sea has a lot to say. Chef Maxi Rossi focuses on local fish and seafood, with a versatility that suits different times of day. The space features two distinct counters, each with its own charm.

The central counter, in the heart of the dining room, offers a front-row seat to the team’s meticulous work and is ideal for letting them guide you to the day’s best options. The cocktail counter, by contrast, is made for relaxed snacking, with shareable bites and small plates.

Must-tries include clams with chilies and huacatay oil, crispy potatoes with anchovies and sriracha, scallops with lardo and orange, and baby squid with ink sofrito and nduja. A go-to for seafood lovers.

Tip: Reservations and walk-ins from 8 pm.

Where: Pasaje Arribeños 1980, Belgrano.

Caprichito is the latest project from the Santoro sisters, creators of Ti Amo and La Sorellina. Here, they indulge in everything they love to eat: artisanal pizzas, burgers, pastas, and comfort-food classics. The setting matches the spirit, with a nostalgic feel, family photos, and a large wooden counter that makes you feel at home.

The counter at the back of the room is perfect for small groups or couples who want to drink, chat, and share dishes without ceremony. The flow goes from vitel toné to a house burger with their own buns, Cacio e Pepe pizza from the stone oven, or spaghetti with meatballs.

Tip: Caprichito delivers comforting cooking, classic flavors, and an ultra-relaxed vibe.

Where: Honduras 5684, Palermo.

A discreet façade, noren curtains, and a minimal sign announce Yakinilo, a small Japanese izakaya where everything happens at the counter. The space is compact and authentic: twelve seats, chōchin lanterns, and an atmosphere that transports you straight to Tokyo.

The specialty is yakitori—skewers marinated in different sauces and grilled to deliver intense, precise flavors. Options include chicken, ribeye, pork belly, fish, and vegetables. There’s also sushi omakase and starters like onigiri and karaage, a foolproof fried chicken.

The experience is rounded out with Asian beers, sake, wines, and cocktails—and a standout feature: Yakinilo doubles as a listening bar, with vinyl records and high-fidelity sound. Every visit can feel different.

Tip: Walk-in only at lunch; reservations and walk-ins at night.

Where: Dorrego 1551, Chacarita.

At Pasaje Victoria, Roy Asato shifts gears to honor his Spanish roots. This speakeasy hidden near the Olivos train station runs on a simple, effective formula: fresh oysters and sparkling wine at accessible prices—and the counter is where it all comes together.

The ideal plan is to arrive at sunset, lean on the bar, start with oysters and a glass of bubbles, then move on to Mediterranean tapas. Trout tartare, Spanish tortilla, grilled squid, and mushroom croquettes pair perfectly with light beers, tinto de verano, or classic cocktails.

Hidden yet easy to spot thanks to its string lights, the space works just as well for a first date as for a night out with friends.

Where: Corrientes 598, Olivos.