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Malbec Market
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Malbec Market
8.3
A neighborhood Argentinian-Italian-Spanish market/counter serving standout steak sandwiches, housemade empanadas, and weekly Spanish specials. Locals praise the vibrant deli counter and wine selection, ideal for casual meals and sampling global flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Empanadas, Short Rib Manicotti, Tortilla de Papas
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Deli-market format offering authentic Spanish and Argentinian specialties.
Who should go: Foodies, families, solo diners, casual wine lovers
When to visit: Weekend lunch or early dinner for full menu
What to order: Empanadas, Steak Sandwich, Spanish Wine
Insider tip: Try the weekly Spanish special and housemade alfajores.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available in the neighborhood, typically easy before 6pm but can get competitive during weekend dinner rush.
Dress code: Casual attire is perfect; jeans and comfy outfits are common, no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate – energetic vibe but still possible to hold conversations without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Expect a 20-40 minute wait; reservations not required but help for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, walk-ins are swiftly seated.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – empanadas, salads, and several deli sides cater to vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited – a couple of salads and side dishes are vegan-friendly but not a full menu.
Gluten-free options: Some options – grilled meats and certain salads are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great choice for a relaxed first date; the lively setting sparks conversation and the global menu impresses with variety.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – tables are first-come, first-served, and walk-ins are welcome except during peak weekend dinners for groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Definitely; high chairs are available and there are plenty of familiar comfort food options for younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Malbec Market stands out for its unique deli-market counter, authentic empanadas, and curated Spanish wines – a casual spot perfect for sampling and sharing.
Skip if: If seeking a formal, multi-course Spanish dinner or extensive vegan/gluten-free choices, opt for a full-service Spanish restaurant instead.
Malbec Market
8.3
Argentine-Italian owned by the Alcorta brothers, Malbec Market melds house-made Italian pastas with signature grilled steaks and Spanish specialties. Locals count on it for approachable counter service with daily market specials and a distinctive mix of South American and Mediterranean comfort food.
Must-Try Dishes:
House-made ravioli, Chicken Parmigiana Milanesa, Dulce de leche alfajor
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: South American-Italian classics with homemade touch in a casual market.
Who should go: Families, pasta lovers, locals craving global comfort
When to visit: Busy weekday evenings or Saturday market stroll
What to order: Ravioli, empanadas, Milanesa sandwich
Insider tip: Check the deli for house-made Argentine chorizo.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is free but can be tough after 6pm, especially on weekends. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed—jeans, sneakers, and tees all welcome. No dress code enforced.
Noise level: Usually moderate—conversation is easy most nights, but weekend rush can get lively.
Weekend wait: 20-40 minutes during peak hours, but some turnover is quick thanks to counter service.
Weekday lunch: Rarely a wait; ordering is fast and tables open up quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several strong options (e.g., spinach ravioli, cheese empanadas, salads), though menu isn’t fully vegetarian.
Vegan options: Very limited—occasional vegan daily special, but otherwise little beyond salads or sides.
Gluten-free options: Can accommodate with substitutions (e.g., grilled meats, some salads), but pasta and empanadas mostly contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Works best for low-key, casual dates where conversation matters more than white-tablecloth ambiance—fun, comfortable, but not fancy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, as it’s mostly counter service—walk-ins are the norm and tables tend to open up regularly, especially at lunch.
Is it kid-friendly? Definitely—kids love the pasta, empanadas, and friendly vibe. No play space, but high chairs and booster seats available.
Best For
Better for: Casual family meals, approachable pastas, and unique Argentine-Italian fusion you won’t find at most Italian spots in Eagle Rock.
Skip if: Seeking a formal, romantic Italian dinner; needing extensive vegan or gluten-free menus.