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ZipPicks Awards
Best Business Lunch Steakhouse in Pasadena
Best Steakhouse in Pasadena
Master Critic Review
Gaucho Grill Argentine Steakhouse
7.9
This authentic Argentine steakhouse brings traditional asado grilling techniques to South Lake Avenue with grass-fed beef and house-made chimichurri. The more casual atmosphere and moderate pricing make it accessible for regular business lunches without sacrificing quality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Entraña Skirt Steak, Empanadas, Provoleta
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Authentic Argentine asado technique with chimichurri
Who should go: Casual business lunches seeking quality value
When to visit: Early lunch to avoid the rush
What to order: Skirt steak, empanadas, malbec wine
Insider tip: Parking structure available behind the restaurant
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Dedicated structure behind restaurant, free first 90 min, street parking challenging during lunch rush 11:30am-1:30pm
Dress code: Business casual standard, jeans acceptable but lean toward dress pants for lunch meetings
Noise level: Moderate - comfortable for business conversations, quieter than typical steakhouse
Weekend wait: 20-30 min typical, reservations strongly recommended Friday/Saturday
Weekday lunch: No wait before 11:45am, 10-15 min during peak 12-1pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - grilled vegetable platter, pasta options, extensive salad menu
Vegan options: Limited - 2 modified salads, grilled vegetables sans butter on request
Gluten-free options: Yes - all grilled meats naturally GF, dedicated prep protocols available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual dates - intimate lighting, moderate noise allows conversation, shareable appetizers create natural interaction, $$ pricing won't break the bank
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch usually yes before 11:45am or after 1:30pm, dinner walk-ins better Monday-Wednesday, always call ahead Thursday-Saturday
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately - no kids menu but willing to do simple grilled chicken/steak, casual atmosphere welcomes families, best for ages 8+ who appreciate meat
Best For
Better for: More authentic Argentine experience than chain steakhouses, better value than high-end competitors, superior chimichurri and empanadas in the area
Consider Alternatives If: Need vegetarian-focused menu, want dry-aged premium cuts, prefer formal white-tablecloth ambiance, or need extensive wine list beyond Argentine selections
Hours
Monday11:30am - 9pm
Tuesday11:30am - 9pm
Wednesday11:30am - 9pm
Thursday11:30am - 9pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
Sunday11:30am - 9pm