31

Victor Audio Bar

Buenos Aires

Nostalgia-driven New York-style lounge

Located on a peaceful Palermo Street, pass through the curtains for a nostalgia-driven New York lounge experience – but in the heart of Buenos Aires. A collaboration between crack bar team Tres Monos and leading local restaurant Niño Gordo, the food and drinks menus take inspiration from the Big Apple's classic establishments. Then, of course, there are the analogue sounds – while it's named after the RCA Victor record label, Japanese listening bars have also wielded their influence. It's the only high-fidelity, vinyl-only spot in the Argentine capital and two DJs play each night.

Diners can sink into red velvet booths and order twists on classic American dishes such as mac 'n' cheese croquettes, prawn cocktail and ribeye served on the marble-topped tables. Drinkers, meanwhile, can sit eye level at the bar and engage with the team led by Demian Cocha: the cocktail list focuses on classics including well-executed Clover Club, Sazerac and Whisky Sours. There is also a Martini Bar: the 50/50 is shaken (or stirred) with Tres Monos' own-label gin, and is backed with a Sidecar and several garnishes, while the Porn Star is a hands-down best seller.

The mood can be spontaneous, guests leaping up to throw some shapes in front of the DJ booth when a favourite '80s track comes on; those on a date can take a romantic approach and listen to tracks from the golden-hued juke box with headphones, hand holding optional. Take a trip down to the basement bathrooms – the stairs light up automatically in 'take me to your leader' fashion.

Contact