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El Mercado Meat Mart
$ · Steakhouse

3767 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
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ZipPicks Awards

Best Steakhouse in Lakeview

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

El Mercado Meat Mart 7.6
Wrigleyville
Vibes: Quick Bites Champions Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Hidden Gems Heaven Solo Dining Sanctuaries
A neighborhood Argentine meat market that doubles as a quick-hit stop for empanadas and take-home steaks. It’s not a restaurant-night destination, but it’s a high-leverage play when you want butcher-quality cuts plus a fast snack that travels well.
Must-Try Dishes: House empanadas (fried or baked), Chimichurri (to-go), Butcher-cut picanha (when available)
Scores:
Value: 8.6 Service: 7.4 Consistency: 7.8 Food Quality: 8 Atmosphere: 6.2 Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Butcher-grade Argentine cuts plus grab-and-go empanadas.
Who should go: Home cooks and quick snack hunters.
When to visit: Late morning or early afternoon for best selection.
What to order: Empanadas, chimichurri, one premium steak cut.
Insider tip: Ask the butcher for the best grilling cut that day.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Southport Ave; usually manageable during the day, tighter evenings and weekends.
Dress code: Casual — errands clothes, jeans, or workday casual are perfect.
Noise level: Low to moderate — retail butcher shop atmosphere, not a sit-down dining room.
Weekend wait: No traditional dinner service; brief counter wait only, usually under 10 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait; quick in-and-out ordering.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — occasional cheese empanadas or pantry items, but not a vegetarian-focused stop.
Vegan options: No — primarily meat-centric with minimal plant-based prepared options.
Gluten-free options: Yes for raw meat and some prepared items; empanadas are not gluten-free.
Best For
Better for: High-quality Argentine cuts, empanadas that travel well, and pairing butcher shopping with a fast bite.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a full-service steakhouse meal, cocktails, or a social dining experience — choose Tango Sur or a sit-down Argentine grill instead.