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ZipPicks Awards
Best Steakhouse in Downtown LA
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Date Night Steakhouse in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Malbec Arts District
8.1
Malbec’s Arts District outpost is an Argentinean steakhouse where wood-fired ribeye, skirt steak, and tomahawk cuts anchor a refined but relaxed dining room. The menu leans steak-forward with South American wines, making it a go-to for date nights and small groups who want serious beef without white-tablecloth stiffness.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bife de Chorizo 16oz New York Steak, Ojo de Bife Ribeye, Asado de Tira Short Ribs
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Argentinean, grill-focused steakhouse from a long-running Pasadena-born concept.
Who should go: Steak lovers wanting wood-fired cuts in Arts District.
When to visit: Weekend dinners or golden-hour patio for best energy.
What to order: Bife de Chorizo, Ojo de Bife ribeye, Asado de Tira.
Insider tip: Plan to share a tomahawk and pair it with Malbec by the glass.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but competitive in the Arts District; paid lots within a 2–3 block walk are your safest bet. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but most diners lean polished with jackets, dresses, or elevated basics.
Noise level: Moderate; lively but not overwhelming. You can hold a date-night conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation depending on group size; walk-ins are possible but not guaranteed during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; seating is smooth and pacing is relaxed.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, empanadas, and a few non-steak mains offer workable options, though the menu is steak-forward.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 vegetable plates and sides can be combined, but not ideal for strict vegans.
Gluten-free options: Strong—many grilled meats and sides are naturally gluten-free; staff is familiar with substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The wood-fired aroma, warm lighting, and refined-but-relaxed setting create an inviting atmosphere that feels special without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible early evening or later in the night, but prime weekend slots often fill. Small parties have better luck at the bar or patio.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat. The space skews adult with a steak-and-wine focus, but older kids and teens are fine. Not ideal for toddlers or stroller setups.
Best For
Better for: Wood-fired Argentine cuts with a South American wine list in a vibe-forward Arts District setting—great for dates and small-group celebrations.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet, classic white-tablecloth steakhouse or a menu with extensive vegan or seafood-driven options.
Hours
Monday12pm - 9pm
Tuesday12pm - 10pm
Wednesday12pm - 10pm
Thursday12pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 10:30pm
Saturday12pm - 10:30pm
Sunday12pm - 9pm