Bariloche Travel Guide: Shopping

Visitors to this Andean town who also happen to be chocolate fans are in luck: Bariloche is the chocolate capital of all Latin America as it houses some of the finest chocolate shops in the entire region. The origins of this industry began after World War II as European expats who found shelter in Argentina began created some of their hometown recipes in their new home.  Some local flavors include chocolate with lemon, berry chocolate and, of course, dulce de leche chocolate. A few recommended shops include Fenaglio which also serves a delicious chocolate ice cream; El Turista where guests can see chocolates being handmade; and Mamushka, which is considered the best chocolate shop in town.

Travelers to Bariloche should visit the outdoor Artisan Market situated behind the Centro Civico held on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, from noon to 8PM. Another market to check is the indoor Handicraft Market situated between Quaglia and Villegas, which is open daily from 11AM to 8PM. For those interested in all-natural wood products, it is recommended that they check out the small Artisan Shop on Morena which is actually run by a local Mapuche indigenous group. For local handicrafts predominantly made of wood and wool, stroll the Outdoor Artisan Market behind the Centro Civico, held each afternoon except Tuesdays and Wednesday, from noon to 8pm (depending on the time of the year).

The ideal place to shop for souvenirs and famous Argentine products such as leather goods and mate (an herbal tea) is on Mitre Street. And if you’re looking for some of the Patagonia’s delicious smoked meats and cheese or specialties such as trout pate, try the shop Familia Weiss.
Familia Weiss, Corner of Palacios and V.A. O'Connor, $5-$12, Tel: +54 (2944) 435-789
Mamushka, Mitre 298, Tel: +54 (2944) 423-294