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Carlitos Gardel Argentine Steakhouse
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Carlitos Gardel Argentine Steakhouse
9.0
Carlitos Gardel is a classic Argentine steakhouse on the western edge of Melrose where grass-fed steaks, deep wine lists, and white tablecloths set up a proper, old-school date night. Since the mid-1990s, the Bozoghlian family has turned the dim, mirror-lined room into a destination for couples who want filet, ribeye, and martinis without leaving the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Skirt steak with chimichurri, Ribeye cap, Dulce de leche meringue cake
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Serious Argentine steaks in a candlelit, old-Hollywood dining room.
Who should go: Couples who want classic steakhouse romance and ritual.
When to visit: Prime 7–9pm weekend seatings or late midweek date.
What to order: Skirt steak, ribeye cap, dulce de leche meringue cake.
Insider tip: Book a later reservation and finish with cocktails and cigars on the back patio.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is usually available in the evening; otherwise street parking on Melrose can be tight after 6pm, so plan a few extra minutes.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—button-downs, sleek dresses, and polished looks match the white-tablecloth vibe.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively; conversation is possible but the room carries a classic steakhouse buzz during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially during prime 7–9pm slots.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service here, so focus on early or late dinner windows for minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—expect salads, vegetable sides, and a few pasta or appetizer options.
Vegan options: Very limited—mostly side dishes and salads without cheese.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free-friendly dishes, including steaks and many sides; staff can advise modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—ideal for a more formal first date where you want to signal intention and taste. The lighting, service, and wine list set a refined tone.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but unpredictable. Walk-ins are sometimes seated early or late in the evening, but weekends almost always require reservations.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—this is a quiet, upscale steakhouse best suited for adults or older teens comfortable with a formal setting.
Best For
Better for: Classic Argentine steaks, romantic ambience, and thoughtful hospitality that feels more personal than larger, corporate steakhouses.
Skip if: You want a casual or budget-friendly steak night, a broad vegan menu, or a high-energy scene with bar seating and TVs.
Carlitos Gardel Argentine Steakhouse
8.7
Carlitos Gardel is a family-run Argentine steakhouse on Melrose known for grass-fed steaks, old-school hospitality, and an extensive wine list. Since the mid-1990s it’s been the go-to in this part of town for ribeye with chimichurri, milanesa, and long, lingering steakhouse dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grass-Fed Ribeye with Chimichurri, Entraña Skirt Steak, Provoleta with Grilled Bread
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.9
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Long-running, family-owned Argentine steakhouse focusing on grass-fed cuts and classic hospitality.
Who should go: Steak lovers seeking a traditional, sit-down Argentine experience.
When to visit: Prime weekend dinners for full energy and best menu breadth.
What to order: Grass-fed ribeye, entraña skirt steak, provoleta starter.
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu steak temps and let the staff steer your wine pairings—they know the list cold.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically offered in the evening; nearby metered street parking is available but fills quickly after 6pm along Melrose and the adjacent side streets.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; jeans are fine but most guests opt for elevated tops, jackets, or date-night attire.
Noise level: Moderate; lively energy with steady conversation hum, but you can usually hold a full conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak prime-time windows.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable as they primarily operate for dinner; early-evening weekday visits generally have minimal waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—options include provoleta, salads, sides, and occasional pasta or vegetable-forward dishes.
Vegan options: Very limited; most dishes rely on dairy or meat, though a few vegetable sides can be adapted.
Gluten-free options: Strong; steaks, many sides, and several appetizers are naturally gluten-free, and staff are used to guiding substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Carlitos Gardel works well for a more classic, intimate first date thanks to its warm lighting, attentive service, and comfortable pacing that encourages conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—early weekday evenings offer the best odds, but weekends and peak times almost always require reservations, especially for prime dining windows.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—younger kids might find the long, traditional steakhouse pacing less ideal, but well-behaved older children and teens who enjoy steaks will be comfortable.
Best For
Better for: Traditional Argentine cuts, personal hospitality, and a classic, lingering dinner experience compared to trendier, scene-driven steakhouses.
Skip if: You want a modern, buzzy steakhouse with high-volume energy, or you prefer a menu with extensive non-steak or plant-based options.