In a 1930 restored mansion, this New York inspired deli/café has a wonderful coffee house atmosphere. It is a comfortable jumble of mixed living room furniture creates intimate alcoves to just sit over coffee and read. Located in the middle of a working class district, the bistro is a welcome addition to a neighborhood transitioning into a sophisticated outlet shopping area. The in-house bakery is set in front of the house where the bread baked daily is on display. Lunches include New York deli style pastrami sandwiches, pastas, quiches, salads and hamburgers. The enormous brunch offered on Saturdays and Sundays reflects the quirky charm of the bistro. Choices include Louisiana ribs, eggs Benedict, or bagels with smoked salmon with sides of pancakes or cornbread.

In 1980, two sisters stopped working to start their own families, and discovered they wanted something more: using their grandmother's recipes and the finest ingredients, Como en Casa was born. The delicious aromas emanating from the restaurant, spread by word of mouth. The quality food and specialty cakes, reflect great attention to detail that go beyond the original recipes. There are cakes with names like "Floating Island", "Isabella" and "Africana". For those more interested in lunch, there are sandwiches, crepes, finger food, cheeses. You can enjoy Como en Casa, either from the inside looking out (onto lovely residential street through large picture windows), or outdoors sitting on delicate lawn chairs in the open air.

In Buenos Aires, it can be a little tricky to find good coffee that you can just grab to go: however, Cafe Martinez is a good place to do just that. They offer larger sizes, all with handy lids. They also offer more than just regular coffee, such as iced frappuchinos and smoothies. Cafe Martinez is a chain, so you can find them around the city and always get your upscale caffeine fix. They also have plenty of space to sit down if you are not in a rush. They even offer a small menu.

Located in Buenos Aires, this traditional coffee shop and confectionery has been visited by many top politicians and celebrities from Argentina. History has it that the famous poet Julio Cortazar wrote some of his poems at London City. They serve excellent coffees, a good selection of wines and desserts. Absolutely ambrosial, they are the best you must have ever tasted. A host of interesting events also take place at this cafe from time to time. Check website for details.

Located in the up-and-coming neighborhood of Colegiales, enjoy a low-key relaxing lunch at this family-owned spot. Situated in a converted house in the middle of a residential zone, the familiarity is felt instantly upon arrival. You can choose to sit in a backyard garden, front yard patio or main indoor dining room. The restaurant serves up tasty, unpretentious food consisting of elaborate salads, sandwiches, main dishes and desserts. Try house favorites, like the Lord Hector hamburger, a homemade beef patty with brie cheese and caramelized onions. Alternatively, you can try the Roger Sandwich, which is fully packed with grilled chicken, guacamole, arugula, sun dried tomatoes, brie, parmesan and cream cheese: all served on freshly baked focaccia bread. - Alexandra Lazar

Freddo is a great ice cream parlor chain in Buenos Aires, and you can find it on the corner of Scalabrini Ortiz and Cerviño. Freddo has a wide variety of very tasty flavors, and they even separate dulce de leche as its own separate flavor category. You can find traditional ice creams made with cream or fruit flavors made with water if you are on a diet. Their prices are a bit higher than many other ice cream parlors, but they often have specials, so make sure you ask. - Rease Kirchner