Story

Welcome to BALVANERA! We're located at 152 Stanton Street in the heart of Manhattan's ever-emerging Lower East Side Community, and coming to 1600 Smallman Street in Pittsburgh in 2023.

The first solo project of Argentine Chef Fernando Navas (elBulli, Nobu, SUSHISAMBA, Gerber Group), BALVANERA represents the cuisine and spirit of Buenos Aires - porteña cuisine with influences from the dynamic regions of Argentina. In 2022, Chef Navas was honored to become an Official Culinary Ambassador of Argentina, a distinguished award presented by Marca Pais, Ministro de Turismo y Deportes de la Nacion, and the Argentine Embassy to promote the country's culture on the world stage.

The menu, from inspired and traditional small plates and composed vegetable dishes to signature carnes and friends & family-style platos is a journey from Fernando's upbringing in Punta Alta through his time working in great kitchens in Barcelona, Miami and New York City.

The beverage menu, originally developed by Argentine Wine Consultant Sebastian Koncurat, is now headed by Nicolas Martianhes (Faena Buenos Aires). The program showcases one of the largest Argentinian and South American wine selections in New York City, following the premise of sustainable viticulture and organic farming. Low alcohol libations highlight sherry, vermouth, and specialty small batch aperitifs - as well as a well-known Sangria de la Casa.

BALVANERA takes its name from a historic ‘barrio’, or neighborhood, of Buenos Aires where poets, musicians and creatives once convened. Entering the restaurant, guests will be welcomed by BALVANERA’s Buenos Aires elegance and Lower East Side’s laid back charm. With two full sides of French doors, the corner space gets glorious sunshine by day and the LES' lights and action by night. On the soundtrack: A colorful rotation of American classic rock and jazz to funk and soul integrated with some more esoteric albums from Argentina. A huge contribution to the ‘feel’ of the space is the service: warm, friend-like hospitality. 

Balvanera's integrated marketing, public relations and creative services are handled by Fun People hospitality agency. For inquiries, to to collaborate!, contact: meredith@funpeople.nyc