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Folklore Argentine Grill
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
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.
Skip if: You want ultra-quiet dining, a large vegan selection, or high-end white-tablecloth steakhouse polish.
Folklore Argentine Grill
8.2
Folklore is a long-running Wicker Park Argentine steakhouse where chimichurri-drizzled cuts, provoleta, and Malbec anchor dimly lit dining rooms and a seasonal patio. It’s a go-to for couples who want a slightly louder, Latin-leaning steak night with shareable plates and a bottle in the middle of Division.
Must-Try Dishes:
El Filet, Churrasco, Provoleta
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Argentine-style steakhouse where grilled beef, chimichurri, and Malbec define the table.
Who should go: Couples who want Argentinian steaks with lively neighborhood energy.
When to visit: Weekend evenings when the dining room feels most festive.
What to order: El Filet, churrasco sirloin, provoleta.
Insider tip: On warmer nights, request the patio when booking; it changes the whole feel.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on and around Division can be limited during peak hours; plan extra time or use rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but most guests lean slightly dressy for date night.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — you can hold a conversation, but it’s not quiet.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — dinner-focused service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few options such as salads, provoleta, and sides.
Vegan options: Limited — menu is largely meat-focused.
Gluten-free options: Several grilled meats and salads work well; confirm with staff when ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the low lighting, shareable plates, and relaxed buzz make it a strong pick for a slightly more casual but still special steak night.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, but waits can build on weekends. Reservations are recommended for prime dining hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Kids are welcome, but the vibe leans adult. Best for older kids or family dinners earlier in the evening.
Best For
Better for: Guests who want Argentinian-style steak with a lively, neighborhood feel rather than ultra-formal steakhouse energy.
Skip if: You prefer very quiet dining rooms, highly modern fine dining, or extensive vegan options.