Elena at The Four Seasons Buenos Aires was one of the most memorable meals we had during our…read morehoneymoon. Ranked as one of the top 100 steak restaurants in the world and noted on the Michelin guide, it absolutely lives up to these accolades with impeccable service, world-class steak, and thoughtful touches that made our evening feel extra special. Given that we were staying at the hotel, it made all the sense in the world to make this reservation.
From the moment we sat down, the service was warm and attentive, striking that perfect balance between professional and personable. Our meal started with a very large and warm complimentary bread service, a small but welcome touch that unfortunately some institutions in the United States have foregone after the pandemic in the name of cost cutting and profit maximization.
Here's what ordered:
Appetizers:
- Ajillo Squid & Prawns: fainá, fermented tofu emulsion
- Charred Fritters: bagnacauda sauce
Entrée & Sides:
- 21 oz New York Strip: cooked medium, sliced for sharing
- Thick-Cut French Fries
Drinks:
- Glass of Malbec (graciously comped for our honeymoon)
- a complementary Champagne toast, also comped for our honeymoon
The Ajillo Squid & Prawns had incredible flavors, with the unique, rich fermented tofu emulsion tying everything together. The Charred Fritters were perfectly crisp, and the bagnacauda sauce added just the right amount of savory to the fried coating of the fritters.
Then, came the star of the night--the 21 oz New York Strip. Cooked to a flawless medium, sliced tableside, and served with only salt on the side (which it barely needed), this steak was as good as it gets. Juicy, very flavorful, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, it's clear why Elena is regarded as one of the best steakhouses in the world. The thick-cut fries were a great side dish, like the steak fries at any other steakhouse. But we both left the dinner thinking that we should've ordered something more "unique" as a side.
As if the food wasn't enough, our server surprised us by comping my glass of Malbec, followed by champagne to toast our honeymoon during dessert, a thoughtful gesture that made an already fantastic meal even more special.
Although prices were comparable to those pre-pandemic at American steakhouses, we both agreed that the quality and portion sizes were superior. We left completely stuffed and felt like we had received outstanding value for what we paid.
Elena is the kind of place that makes a special occasion feel even more unforgettable. An absolute must when in Buenos Aires. Thank you for setting the tone during our Honeymoon!
