El Arriero Centro Bar In Asunción: Three Floors, One Experience

What began as a small container in 2017 has evolved into one of Asunción’s most dynamic multi-level bars. El Arriero Centro Bar was founded by three entrepreneurs and led by Carola Sánchez, proprietor, majority shareholder, and legal representative.

“El Arriero was born from an idea that did not yet exist in Paraguay. A dedicated parrillitas and chopp format operating as a standalone venue rather than an event service,” states Carola.

Today, this pioneer of the category has grown into a three-storey establishment in downtown Asunción. Combining gastronomy, music, and themed entertainment under one roof.

El Arriero’s journey reflects steady expansion and continual reinvention. “From Mburukuja Food Park, to a converted casona in Luque. Then, to Las Mercedes, and now to a downtown location.” El Arriero Centro Bar has shifted from a meat-focused restaurant to a hybrid bar concept offering three distinctive atmospheres. The result is a venue designed to match different moods, preferences, and nights out, all without leaving the building.

A multi-level identity

El Arriero’s transformation embraces a new identity built around versatility. “While its reputation for quality meats and its signature parrillitas remains intact, our establishment now operates as a bar with three thematic floors, each offering a unique experience.”

The first floor functions as the main bar area. Delivering full gastronomy, lively playlists, music videos, occasional live shows, and the house cocktail station, María Barrita, alongside conventional karaoke.
The second floor, known as La Zona del Rencor, introduces a North American-style karaoke setup. This floor has stage performances, choreography, and live entertainment.
The third floor, an open-air terrace, offers a more relaxed and chill ambience complemented by La Taberna 21, a dedicated cocktail bar. Moreover, its DJ sets, easygoing atmosphere, and outdoor seating provide a refreshing contrast to the energy of the floors below.

Each space is designed to cater to a different mood, therefore, allowing the same visit to feel varied depending on where one chooses to stay or wander.

A menu built around its roots

Although the venue has diversified, its core remains culinary. Visitors continue to gravitate towards the parrillitas, the acclaimed asado sandwiches, and the ever-popular beer chopp. Nowadays, the addition of expanded cocktail bars across the establishment responds to growing demand for mixology-driven nightlife. Finally, giving guests a menu that balances familiar flavours with new offerings.

Music, energy, and choice at El Arriero

El Arriero offers an atmosphere defined by movement and interaction. Guests can expect good music, karaoke nights, DJ sets, and a consistently upbeat vibe. According to Carola, the values that define the venue and its team are “good energy, cordiality, and attentive service”, qualities that have shaped its identity from the beginning.

The multi-floor layout encourages visitors to explore and choose the experience that resonates with them that night. While some stay for the show-floor karaoke, others stay for the terrace ambience; many move between levels as the evening unfolds.

The soul of the venue

“There is no single favourite spot. Each floor has its own charm and purpose, and the ideal choice depends entirely on what visitors are seeking that day.” This diversity also makes the venue suitable for events, including birthdays, corporate dinners, end-of-year gatherings, and other celebrations.

El Arriero stands out because it offers variety rather than a single concept. In one location, guests can enjoy hearty gastronomy, an energetic bar, themed karaoke rooms, and an outdoor terrace, all connected by the same friendly, vibrant attitude that defines the brand.

Consequently, first-time visitors quickly discover that the magic lies in moving through the levels and finding the one that matches their evening’s rhythm.

Looking ahead

“The establishment’s future is centred on the full incorporation and development of the second floor’s North American-style karaoke, complete with live shows and specialised events. Additional features and experiences are expected to follow as the venue continues evolving.”

El Arriero’s commitment to reinvention, atmosphere, and gastronomy ensures that it remains a standout destination for both locals and newcomers exploring the heart of Asunción.

VIP card benefits

As a VIP member of The Asunción Times, you can enjoy a 10% discount simply by presenting your VIP Member Card, just one of the many VIP Member Benefits. El Arriero is located on Estrella and Alberdi, downtown Asunción.