Are you planning a trip to Buenos Aires and looking for the best tango shows to experience? Look no further! In this article, we will highlight some of the most exceptional tango shows in the city, ranging from the traditional to the modern. With this guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Buenos Aires, the Tango capital of the world.
Tango is an integral part of Buenos Aires culture and history. The passionate dance originated in the city’s working-class neighborhoods in the late 19th century and has since become a global sensation.
A visit to Buenos Aires is not complete without experiencing a tango show. The city offers a wide range of tango shows, each with their own unique style and atmosphere.
From traditional performances in historic venues to contemporary shows with a modern twist, there is something for everyone.
In this article, I will be highlighting some of the best tango shows in Buenos Aires, from the classic to the contemporary, to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in the city.
The Best Tango Shows in Buenos Aires: A Comprehensive Guide
These are some of the best tango shows in Buenos Aires, each one offers a unique experience and all of them feature talented dancers, live music, and a great atmosphere. you can choose one that suits your taste and preference.
There are many tango shows in Buenos Aires, each with different prices and services offered. However, the authentic tango that you’ll witness in these shows is vastly different from what you may have seen in movies.
The tango performances in Buenos Aires tell passionate stories and experiencing this romantic dance is considered one of the most essential experiences in the city.
It can be overwhelming to choose which show to attend. That’s why this post aims to simplify the process and help you select the best tango show in Buenos Aires for an unforgettable experience.
Table of Contents
La Ventana (Tango & Floclore)
What sets La Ventana in San Telmo apart from other tango shows in Buenos Aires is that they incorporate folkloric music into their performances. While tango is the traditional music of Buenos Aires, there are many other traditional dances from different regions of Argentina. La Ventana’s show offers a well-rounded experience with music and dance styles from all over the country, including chamame, chacarera, and zamba, which are not commonly seen in the city. These styles originate from interior provinces like Salta and Santiago del Estero in the north and offer a unique and authentic glimpse into Argentine culture.
La Ventana is one of the most popular tango shows in Buenos Aires, accommodating up to 200 guests without compromising on the quality of service. With 35 dancers and 2 orchestras, you will witness a true celebration of Argentine culture, ranging from tango to gauchos. While you can observe locals dancing these folkloric styles on the streets of Mataderos market, nothing beats the experience of watching a professional performance. If you want to fully immerse yourself in Argentine culture, La Ventana is the best option to witness the diversity and richness of Argentina’s traditional music and dance styles.
Rojo Tango (A luxury experience)
Rojo Tango is situated within the most luxurious and exclusive hotel in Buenos Aires, El Faena which is situated in the fashionable Puerto Madero neighborhood.
El Faena is a luxurious hotel that offers a range of other services to its guests, including an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center. The hotel’s interiors are elegantly decorated with a mix of modern and classic design, and there are several dining options available on-site, including a restaurant run by a world-renowned chef.
This tango show shines amidst the multitude of tango shows in Buenos Aires.
The dancers at Rojo Tango are some of the finest in the city, and they take full advantage of their intimate cabaret-style setting, sometimes even dancing among the audience!
If you’re looking to pamper yourself in Argentina, Rojo Tango is the ultimate indulgence.
This exclusive tango show is extremely intimate, giving you the feeling of being a part of the action rather than tucked away in the back corner of a large dance hall.
If you’re seeking pure luxury, you’ll find it at Rojo Tango: from the sumptuous decor, outstanding dancers, to the gourmet meal.
Michelangelo Tango Show (Best dinner)
If you’re looking for a truly immersive tango full experience in Buenos Aires, look no further than Michelangelo Tango. This historic venue, located in the heart of colonial San Telmo, has been beautifully restored to offer an authentic Argentine atmosphere.
In addition to the stunning architecture, Michelangelo Tango boasts a charming restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious meal before the show. Seated under bricked archways, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back in time.
But what really sets Michelangelo Tango apart from other tango shows in Buenos Aires is the quality of the performance. The show features traditional folkloric music and dance, along with mesmerizing tango performances that will leave you breathless.
El Viejo Almacén – The Classic Tango Show
Located in the heart of the historic neighborhood of San Telmo, El Viejo Almacen is a Buenos Aires tango house with a rich history. Although it was founded in 1969, the building dates back much further and was originally owned by immigrants who operated a Russian restaurant there starting in 1900.
Walking into El Viejo Almacen is like taking a step back in time to old-school Buenos Aires. The venue’s name comes from the Tango song Sentimiento Gaucho and refers to an old general store (or “almacen”) that was once located near the area.
Over the years, some of Buenos Aires’ most iconic tango artists have graced the stage at El Viejo Almacen, including Aníbal Troilo, Osvaldo Pugliese, Roberto Goyeneche, and Leopoldo Federico. The venue’s long history and impressive roster of performers make it one of the most classic and beloved tango venues in the city.
El Viejo Almacén became known worldwide as the most traditional tango venue in Buenos Aires, located in the historic center of the corner of Balcarce and Independencia, a corner that hides the soul of the mysterious Buenos Aires, preserving like no other the traces of the old city in the neighborhood of San Telmo.
The tango in El Viejo Almacén reaches characteristics that are impossible to describe; for more than two centuries, the walls of the old warehouse treasure secrets of the porteño suburb, love sorrows, betrayals, impossible dreams that in the chords of an orchestra are dispersed among the tables and a tango song is heard and dancers turn in an accomplice embrace.
Esquina Homero Manzi (The most affordable on the list)
Located off the beaten tourist track in Boedo, Esquina Homero Manzi is a gem of a tango venue in one of Buenos Aires’ few remaining “barrios tangueros” or tango neighborhoods. The historic venue that houses the Homero Manzi tango show is steeped in history, and before the show, visitors can check out nearby Café Margot, a historic bar overflowing with character.
But who was Homero Manzi? He was a poet who revolutionized tango, writing his first song at the age of 14. Today, Esquina Homero Manzi is even recognized as an official site of cultural importance by the national government.
One of the standout features of Esquina Homero Manzi is its affordability. Despite being one of the most traditional and historic tango shows in the city, it is also the most affordable on this list. This makes it a great value for visitors who want to experience an authentic tango show without breaking the bank.
Piazzolla Tango Show (Best location)
Piazzolla Tango is a tango show that pays homage to one of Buenos Aires’ great tango figures – Astor Piazzolla. Piazzolla was born in Mar del Plata and spent part of his childhood in New York before moving to Buenos Aires to study. Over the years, he befriended Carlos Gardel and performed in Anibal Troilo Pichuco’s orchestra. He was a great composer and bandoneon player, and this show in the stunning Galeria Guemes downtown features his compositions.
The music in this tango and dinner show pays tribute to Piazzolla’s great works. But the location of the show is also a standout feature. The venue is a restored Art-Nouveau theater, built in 1915 and reminiscent of the richer days of Buenos Aires‘ past when it truly felt like the Paris of South America. The theater is located in Galeria Guemes on Calle Florida downtown, and visitors can even enjoy a rooftop bar in the same building called Florida 165.
El Querandí Tango Show (Small & Cozy)
El Querandi tango show is located in the heart of San Telmo, just a 5-minute walk from Plaza de Mayo. What sets El Querandi apart from other tango show venues is its intimate and cozy setting, which allows for a more personal experience with the performers. The dancers skillfully use the entire space, even incorporating the area where the audience is seated at their tables.
The show features magnificent dances accompanied by a live tango band, with a strong emphasis on the music. During the performance, the band also has 2 or 3 solo acts, while the performers change into their dazzling costumes.
El Querandi’s tango show tells the complete story of tango, from the Belle Epoque era to the modern-day interpretations. The food is delicious, and the English-speaking waitstaff is efficient and attentive to your needs.
The small venue offers an excellent view of the stage, even from a table on the side towards the back.
Established in 1920, El Querandi’s building dates back to 1867, making it one of the oldest and most historic venues on this list. The singers are of excellent quality, and the small size of the venue guarantees a great experience no matter where you are seated.
The historic mansion adds to the unique ambiance of the show, and the attention to detail in the costumery is captivating and holds your attention until the very end.
Other tango Shows
Esquina Carlos Gardel Tango Show – Located in the Abasto neighborhood, this iconic venue features a talented cast of dancers and musicians, accompanied by live music and a wide range of tango styles.
Señor Tango Show – This high-energy performance features a cast of world-renowned dancers and singers, as well as a live orchestra.
Tanguera Tango Show – This modern take on the tango features a contemporary choreography and a stunning stage design.
Tango Porteño Show – This show offers a traditional tango experience with a wide range of tango styles, and features a live orchestra, soloists and dancers.
Tango X 2 Show – A classic tango performance with a modern twist, featuring a cast of talented dancers and live music
Bar Sur Tango Show – A great place to experience tango in a intimate setting, with a small cast of talented dancers, live music and a dinner option.
Tanguisimo Tango Show – Offers a traditional tango experience, with live music, authentic choreography, and a dinner option featuring Argentine dishes
Cafe de los Angelitos – Cafe de los Angelitos is a notable historic coffee house established in 1890. It was a gathering spot for intellectuals, poets, and artists, including tango legend Carlos Gardel. The cafe’s walls are adorned with photographs showcasing its rich history. Although I haven’t attended their tango show, I used to visit for coffee when I worked in the area. The dining room is a beautiful relic of Argentina’s past and worth a visit, even if you can’t catch the tango show. Located in Congreso, just a few blocks from the Congress Building, it’s a great place for tea time if you’re in the area during the day.
FAQ
What is the dress code for a Tango Show?
There is no strict dress code, but many guests choose to dress up for the occasion. Business casual or cocktail attire is appropriate.
Is there a minimum age requirement for a Tango Show in Buenos Aires?
No, there is no minimum age requirement. However, please note that the show may not be suitable for very young children.
How long is a tango show?
The show lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Can I take photos during the show?
Usually photography and filming are not allowed during a tango show. However, there is an opportunity to take photos with the performers after the show.
Is there a vegetarian option on the menu?
Yes, usually there are vegetarian options available on the menu. Please inform the restaurant staff of any dietary restrictions when making your reservation.
Is transportation provided to and from the venue?
No, in general transportation is not provided. However, the tango venues are located in a central area of Buenos Aires and can easily be reached by taxi or public transportation.
In conclusion, Buenos Aires is a city rich in tango culture and history. Whether you’re a tango enthusiast or simply looking to experience something unique and authentic, a tango show is a must-see during your visit. From classic performances in historic venues to contemporary shows with a modern twist, the city offers a wide range of options to suit all tastes. The shows highlighted in this article are some of the best in Buenos Aires, and are sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
