Argentines take over Times Square with grills within hours

When Argentines 'third-worldized' Times Square: chronicle of a lightning takeover

How did Argentines manage to turn Times Square into a giant barbecue spot within hours? The scene, which has already gone viral, shows groups of Argentine immigrants setting up grills, mate gourds and meat in the very heart of New York. For some, it is proof that asado culture knows no borders; for others, a sign that third-worldization is exported faster than GDP.

A conquest faster than Madrid's metro one
Argentines took less time to bring their ritual to Times Square than Peruvian immigrants needed to do the same in Madrid's metro, as has been pointed out. The comparison is harsh: while Peruvians took years to settle in with rap, empanadas and tear-jerking stories, Argentines occupied New York's tourist epicenter within hours. Some see it as proof of their organizational skills; others, as an indicator that urban decline is accelerating.

The ghost of the 19th century and Milei's laughter
Historical references were quick to appear. One analysis recalled that New York already experienced a similar situation in the late 19th century, when waves of Italian immigrants from the mezzogiorno arrived, also called 'perecid' (fleeing hunger). The irony is that, while this happens, Argentine president Javier Milei is reportedly laughing at Donald Trump, hinting that the Argentine diaspora is unstoppable. 'More than half of them you eat up, they never come back,' goes the quip, referring to the fact that emigrants do not return.

The grill as identity, meat as a flag
Despite the criticism, some defend Argentine skill at the barbecue. The debate over who grills the best meat is almost theological: it has been recalled that even an Argentine admitted in a book that the best barbecue is done in Spain, but that detail has not stopped the new settlers of Times Square. The ultimate insult to an Argentine is to tell them they know nothing about football or cannot cook meat; so far, neither reproach has had any effect.

Third world: a place or people?
The sharpest line in the debate was: 'The third world is not a place; the third world is its people.' It makes no difference whether the asado is served in Buenos Aires or Manhattan: culture travels with people. And when Argentines arrive, the urban landscape changes. The question left hanging is whether New York gained a new tourist attraction or lost a piece of its identity. Probably both at once.