Patio Bullrich Shopping Mall, Buenos Aires

Opened in 1988, decorated in and elegant and classical style, it is located in the vicinity of embassies, theatres and prestigious hotels. It houses 80 shops, a food hall with capacity for up to 800 people, 200 car park spaces and a leisure centre that includes 6 cinema theatres.

This mall was built in the refurbished building of the former "cattle market". Among the remaining original features are the great clock - in the centre of the main hall- and sculptures representing animal heads.

Patio Bullrich is situated very close to the French Embassy and the Four Seasons hotel, so that may give you an idea that we are not talking outlet shopping here. Some major brands such as Kenzo and Christian Lacroix have their Argentina flagship stores in here. I've read a few derogatory comments about it based on the fact that it is more upscale, but I think that's missing the point of this great place. That's like saying that Nordstrom's is crap because it doesn't match the prices of Wal-mart - we are talking different levels of quality here, people!

First of all, it's never too crowded unless it's Christmastime (their holiday decorations are really nice, by the way). Although smoking is allowed, it is not as prevalent as in other shopping malls and the air is constantly being refreshed (although sometimes the smell of potpourri can be a bit much). Classical music comes out of the loudspeakers, complementing the neoclassical architecture of the place.

As far as shopping, if you are interested in getting clothes from some international brands, this is a good place (and prices are comparable to other shops that carry the same clothes). Also, on the top level there is a good wine shop and a Valenti store (specialty cheeses and cured meats). The food court carries most of the common things you can find on the other shopping malls in BA (salads, quiches, a McD's, barbeque, pastas, ice-cream). There's 4 movie theaters also, though they are a bit on the small side.

What to buy: Check on the top level - there's a good store that sells Argentine artistry items (knives, leather goods, mates, etc.)

4 more images

It's the most classy shopping in Buenos Aires. Inside it you can find Harry Cipriani, a great italian restaurant!
The shopping has cinemas also.

Es el shopping mas elegante de Buenos Aires. En el se encuentra Harry Cipriani, un excelente restaurante italiano.
El shopping tambien tiene cines.

E o mais chick shopping do Buenos Aires. Dentro do shoppinng voce pode achar Harry Cipriani, um otimo restaurante italiano!
O shopping tambem tem cinema.

What to buy: You can find all the best cloths shops there!

Alli se encuentran los mejores negocios de ropa!

Voce pode achar la as melhores lojas de roupa!

After finishing our tour of the amazing tombs in the Recoleta cemetary, followed by a walk around the streets of this district of Buenos Aires, Sue and I entered the upscale Patio Bullrich shopping mall.

This high-quality mall has brought new life to an old livestock auction house, built in the early 1900s by the Bullrich family. The patron of the family, Don Adolfo J. Bullrich was once a mayor of Buenos Aires (1898-1902) and he went on to be a major player in the Argentine cattle business. The mall retains some relics of that past, with the glass-domed roof, a huge clock and sculptures of animal heads strategically placed around the walls (check out the cow bust in the upper-left of the photo!).

What to buy: In addition to having six modern movie theatres, the mall specializes in top-quality goods of all descriptions, many imported from Europe. Also it has restaurant choices ranging from the fast food court to haute cuisine. With the exchange on the Argentine peso, it is possible to get some good deals here. However, all we wanted was a toilet, an air-conditioned place to sit down for a while and a couple of bottles of water to cool down after our walk.

Great assortment of handbags, wallets, accessories, and leather jackets. Updated, trendier styles.

What to buy: Any leathergoods - Argentinian leather is the best in the world! Even the Italians import Argentinian hides...

What to pay: Handbag - between $45-$100 USD, Wallets - between $12-$30USD - depending on size & design

Located in the heart fo Recoleta, Patio Bullrich is the most exclusive mall in Buenos Aires. If you are looking for international labels, this is the place to go. Do not expect to find "a good deal", this is where people go for the looks and the quality, not for the price. Very nice atmosfere and great for people watching.

2 more images

Located on Libertador, in the heart of Buenos Aires' Recoleta, District, this is a posh mall with various designer stores; with an arcade on the fourth level, and various clothing, jewelry, art, and various other stores and cafes are located.

It is a fun place to stroll around and although overpriced compared to other malls, it is relaxing and comfortable. If you are into expensive shopping, you will love this galleria.