ZipPicks Awards
Best Steakhouse in Wicker Park & West Town
Best Date Night Steakhouse in Wicker Park & West Town
Master Critic Review
Folklore Argentine Grill
7.8
Folklore Argentine Grill is a Division Street standby for Argentine-style steaks, provoleta, and empanadas served in a dim, brick-lined room. It’s where neighborhood regulars go for slower, shareable dinners when they want steak with more South American character than a classic Chicago house.
Must-Try Dishes:
Churrasco Skirt Steak with Chimichurri, Beef and Chicken Empanadas, Provoleta with Grilled Sausage
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Long-running Argentine grill where steaks, empanadas, and chimichurri anchor dinner.
Who should go: Couples or small groups wanting relaxed Argentine steakhouse vibes.
When to visit: Later weekend dinners before or after walking Division Street.
What to order: Churrasco skirt steak, mixed empanadas, provoleta with sausage.
Insider tip: Plan for an unhurried meal and build in time for nearby bars or cafés afterward.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking on Division and nearby side streets; it can be tight on weekends so allow extra time.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but many diners lean a bit dressy at night.
Noise level: Moderate — you can usually hold a conversation, but it can get lively during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation depending on the time.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though the restaurant is dinner-focused.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some options like salads, provoleta, and sides, but the menu is steak-forward.
Vegan options: Very limited — most dishes include dairy or meat.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes can work gluten-free (especially steaks and salads), but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the dim lighting and slower-paced service make it feel cozy and intimate without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially on weekdays, but weekends fill up fast — walking in earlier in the evening gives you the best chance.
Is it kid-friendly? Older kids and teens should be fine, but the vibe skews adult and relaxed rather than family-focused.
Best For
Better for: Leisurely, shareable Argentine steak dinners with a neighborhood feel rather than big-city steakhouse formality.
Consider Alternatives If: You want ultra-quiet dining, a large vegan selection, or high-end white-tablecloth steakhouse polish.