Why Locals Love Doña Quela
Nestled in the heart of San Martín de los Andes, Doña Quela stands as a true culinary gem, celebrating the rich flavors of Argentinian cuisine with a distinct Patagonian touch. Located on Av. San Martín 1017, this restaurant invites guests on an unforgettable journey through authentic, high-quality dishes that represent the region’s bounty and culinary heritage.
At Doña Quela, the menu reads like a love letter to Patagonia’s finest ingredients. Guests rave about the Patagonian trout, expertly prepared to reveal its delicate, buttery texture and fresh, vibrant flavors that sing on the palate. The house specialties extend to mouthwatering pastas, such as the tender deer pasta, and the hearty jabalí goulash, each dish crafted with precision and care, echoing traditional recipes infused with local passion. The ojo de bife (ribeye steak) also emerges as a star choice, ideally cooked to perfection, offering a juicy, flavorful experience that truly satisfies meat lovers.
The dining atmosphere at Doña Quela transforms every meal into a sensory delight. Guests have described the setting as impeccably clean and elegant, embodying a high-level sophistication while retaining a warm, welcoming aura. As the evening unfolds, a live piano performance adds a layer of enchanting ambiance that enhances the overall experience, making dinner here something special beyond just the food.
Service is another pillar of Doña Quela’s charm, consistently praised for its attentiveness and professionalism. One diner noted the excellent hospitality that complements the exquisite dishes, creating a seamless dining experience from start to finish. The thoughtfully curated wine list, featuring notable regional selections, perfectly pairs with each course, elevating the flavors and celebrating Argentina’s famed viticulture.
Whether you’re savoring the Brochette de Cordero (lamb skewer) accompanied by roasted potatoes, or indulging in a decadent dessert like frutos del bosque or a classic crème brûlée, every bite at Doña Quela speaks to tradition, quality, and heartfelt culinary artistry. This historic establishment offers not just a meal but a passage into Patagonian culture through its dishes.
For travelers and locals alike seeking an exceptional and authentic Argentinian dining experience in San Martín de los Andes, Doña Quela delivers with genuine warmth, exquisite flavors, and an inviting ambiance that will have you returning time and again.
Contact: +54 2972 42-0670
Address: Av. San Martín 1017, Q8370 San Martín de los Andes, Neuquén, Argentina
See the Space & Food
What Makes This Place Friendly
- Outdoor seating
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Live music
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Private dining room
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
- Restroom
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Groups
- Tourists
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
- Free street parking
- Parking
- Dogs allowed inside
- Dogs allowed outside
Real Reviews from the Community
- Mar 9, 2026
The best patagonian trout in the city, good wine chart, delicious pasta and excellent service, live piano performance at dinner, all stars for the historic Doña Quela, absolutely recommended
- Feb 27, 2026
Delicious and high-quality food. Clean and tidy place at a high level. Excellent service. Highly recommended.
- Feb 13, 2026
Dona Quela, San Martin De Los Andes, Neuquen Argentina Back on Tuesday, June 14, 2017, I had the opportunity to dine at the Dona Quela restaurant which I believe is the Very First Restaurant out in San Martin De Los Andes, Neuquen Argentina. During my dining experience, I enjoyed Brochette De Cordero, Con Batatas Asadas, Agua Eco De Los Andes, Copa Vino Fabre Montmayou. For dessert, I had their Volcan Chocolate and Mousse Chocolate. It was simply Delicious! I personally want to Thank Hugo Gonzalez for Inviting ME here and Naty Milone for Serving ME back on that evening. I am more than looking forward to coming back again tonight on Thursday, June 8, 2017 for another Delicious, Memorable Meal. Sincerely yours, Howard Paul Shore Visitor Executive, Volunteer Writer For Google And Tripadvisor Websites /HPS ======================================================= This was my second (2nd) time visiting this restaurant and it is always a pleasure! The service was Excellent and so was the Food! For dinner I had the following: Fideos Cintas or Fetuccini with Garlic, Camarones (scampi) and Olive Oil. Jugo de Frambuesas (Raspberry Juice). Capresse Salad (tomatoes, basil and boconcinos). For Dessert I Had Crema Catalana or Creme Brulee (with Red Fruit Sauce). The Food all Tasted Very Good and was kindly served by Sofia who has been with the restaurant for the past four (4) years. I want to personally Thank Hugo for Inviting ME and Sofia for serving ME very Amazingly, Delicious Food back on Thursday, June 8, 2017. Sincerely yours, Howard Paul Shore Visitor Executive, Volunteer Writer For Google And Tripadvisor Websites /HPS
- Jan 26, 2026
Must say I was a bit reluctant to attend cause all of the 1-star reviews left not so long ago but all things considered we had a very good time. Service was really good, We had the ternera and also the jabalí goulash, the risotto and the deer pasta as main courses. Frutos del bosque, cream brulle and don pedro as dessert.
- Jan 12, 2026
We have been four times to Dona Quela. The first three times their ojo de bife was spectacular. Dinner for two with steaks, salad, wine, desserts was about 40 US. Great ambiance, great waiters. The fourth time we took friends and the ojo de bife was terrible. Tough, overcooked and about half the size. They apologized and said they got a bad bach of meat. Before ordering ask if they are back to their regular quality.
- Dec 25, 2025
Rodrigo was the most amazing server. He was so helpful and patient with helping us order being that we did not speak Spanish. He also gave us a list of recommended things to do in the area.
- Dec 23, 2025
Amazing place for traditional Patagonian food! Wonderful service and delicious food. Interior with incredible vibes! All accompanied by nice piano music! Prices are reasonable for what you get. Definitely to be visited when staying in the town!
- Dec 13, 2025
Very good! Advice for local specialties: Bife de Chorizo! Great atmosphere.
