Abasto

Abasto Review

The soaring art deco architecture of what was once the city's central market is as much a reason to come here as the three levels of shops. Although Abasto has many top local chains, it's not as exclusive as other malls, so you can find relative bargains at the 250 shops such as Ver, Yagmour, and Markova. You can also dress up at Ayres, Paula Cahen d'Anvers, Akiabara, Rapsodia, or the Spanish chain Zara, famous for its cut-price versions of catwalk looks. Levi's, Billabong, Puma, Gola, and Adidas are among the casual international offerings; for something smarter, there's Yves Saint Laurent. Men can hit such trendy shops as Bensimon and Old Bridge or go for the estanciero look with La Martina polo wear. Take a break in the top-floor food court beneath the glass panes and steel supports of the building's original roof. The mall also has 12 movie screens and two 3D ones and hosts the annual Bafici independent international film festival in April; you can also pick up tickets for live entertainment around town at the Ticketek booth near the food court.