Piegari Carnes

Piegari Carnes is the steakhouse, recently opened by high-end Italian restaurant, Piegari, located across the street from its Retiro location. This restaurant, along with about half a dozen others, is located in La Recova, a single small block on Posadas in Retiro, nestled down underneath an overpass, within walking distance from all of the city’s most luxurious hotels. And the surrounding real estate is the most expensive in the city. So, no big surprise, the food and prices are set to cater to affluent residents and visitors to the city.

The décor is sophisticated, bordering on elegant. Le Grill in Puerto Madero offers a similar sophisticated ambiance, but Le Grill is a bit more modern and minimalist in approach. The décor at Piegari Carnes is a bit more traditional, despite having modern art from famed local contemporary abstract artist, Milo Lockett, adorning the walls.

The quality of the steaks is second to none. Easily on par with Le Grill and famed Cabaña las Lilas. Service was near perfect, although a bit on the impersonal side. A quality waiter that shows a bit of personality is my preference.

My medium-rare steak was cooked perfectly.

Now for the bad news. This place, like the Italian restaurant, Piegari, across the street, is priced ridiculously high, putting it easily in the group of the most-overpriced restaurants in the city, along with sister restaurant Piegari, Cabaña las Lilas and all the ridiculous mundane and pricey restaurants at the Alvear Palace hotel. If you’re the type with a fragile ego that requires spending lots of money for things you can find elsewhere for much less, this place is the perfect destination for you.

If you’re just looking for a high-quality steak and don’t give two flips about décor or status, walk across the street to El Mirasol. If money is no object, Piegari Carnes, although a bit stale in ambiance, is still an excellent option.