- Meal times
- Breakfast is light, usually 7:00-10:00 AM. Lunch is typically 1:00-3:00 PM. Dinner is quite late, often starting around 9:00 PM and extending until midnight, especially on weekends.
- Tipping
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A tip of 10% of the bill is standard for good service in sit-down restaurants. For casual cafes or quick service, rounding up or leaving a few coins is sufficient.
- Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in Puerto Iguazu. However, for sensitive stomachs or extra caution, bottled water is widely available and recommended, especially outside established restaurants. Ice in drinks at reputable places is usually safe.
- Vegetarian
- Vegetarians will find empanadas, provoleta, and various pasta dishes due to Italian influence, but notify staff of 'sin carne' (without meat). Vegans will have a harder time; look for salads or specific vegan restaurants. Halal options are scarce outside dedicated establishments. Always ask about ingredients for allergies as cross-contamination can occur.
- Payment
- Credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants and larger shops, but smaller cafes, 'al paso' stalls, and some markets prefer or only accept cash (pesos). It's always wise to carry small bills for convenience and street food.
- Etiquette
- Meal times are later than in many countries; dinner rarely starts before 9 PM. Punctuality for social invitations is flexible. Eye contact is important in conversation, and a firm handshake is common upon greeting. It's polite to keep hands visible on the table.