I so rarely give five stars, and wanted to this time, because this unassuming hole-in-the-wall knows exactly what it wants to do, and it does it right. It advertises regional cuisine, and in addition to empanadas offers humitas, tamales, and other specialties. I have found it nearly impossible to get past the empanadas, which are delicious!
The restaurant itself is a narrow space, with ten two-person tables that can be arranged to accommodate parties of varying sizes. Costumbres Criollas also offers delivery and has a solid take-out business. Located on Esmeraldas just above where it ends at Avenida del Libertador (not too far from the Retiro train station and Plaza San Martin), this restaurant is just the place to come to when you have a hankering for light, inexpensive and yummy food.
So why not five stars? For two mainly reasons: they only take cash, and they charge for table service.
In any case, I will be back. read more