Mostaza

Mostaza, Spanish for mustard, is an Argentine burger chain founded in Buenos Aires at the turn of the century; sources disagree on the year, giving both 1998 and 2001. It is usually described as the second burger chain in Argentina after McDonald’s, and it grew fast: about 50 restaurants in 2011, close to 110 by 2016 and more than 180 now, in shopping centres, hypermarkets and on the street, with a smaller presence in Uruguay, Paraguay and Bolivia.

The chain built its identity on size. Its main burgers are sold under the “Mega” name, with large patties that reviewers compare favourably with the smaller ones of its American rival, and many come in double and triple versions. Beside them sit crispy chicken burgers, a meat-free “Cero” line and, as in any Argentine café, medialunas and dulce de leche desserts.

More than 180 restaurants in Argentina, with branches in Uruguay, Paraguay and Bolivia.

• El Corral (Colombia, since 1983). Colombia’s own burger chain, bigger at home than any American import. Also built on beef and cheese.
• Bob's (Brazil, since 1952). Brazil’s first fast-food chain, founded by a Wimbledon champion. Also built on beef and cheese.
• Bembos (Peru, since 1988). Peru’s own burger chain, with fried plantain and egg on the menu. Also built on beef and cheese.
• Giraffas (Brazil, since 1981). The Brasília fast-food chain where the burger comes with a fried egg. Also built on beef and cheese.