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Malbec Argentinean CuisineA-Worth Trying

Name: Malbec Argentinean Cuisine
Address: 1001 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91106, Pasadena, United States
Rating: 4.5

1001 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91106 · Argentinian restaurant · 4.5/5 Google (1263 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Argentinian grill with excellent steaks, attentive service, and strong wine list; prices are premium and portions for sides run small.

Why it gets an A- for overall quality

Malbec Argentinean Cuisine delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality anchored by wood-fired steaks and empanadas, paired with outstanding service attentiveness that anticipates diner needs. Consistency shows minor variation in execution, and the comfortable but understated setting prevents elevation to grade A territory. Premium pricing is justified by quality and wine expertise, making it competitive with the area's better neighborhood steakhouses.

Restaurant Summary

The room feels warm and intimate with a steady date-night buzz, where servers glide between two-tops and big celebrations. Guests talk about steaks arriving sizzling and service that is thoughtful without hovering. One diner summed it up: "They caught a doneness issue and fixed it before I asked," which fits the overall sense of smooth hospitality. Cooking leans Argentinian wood-fire classics with Italian-leaning pastas and bright ceviches rather than theatrics. Expect well-sourced steaks with trio chimichurri, crisp empanadas, and seafood options like octopus and tuna tartare. Portions for sides run modest, and pricing is premium, but most diners feel the quality and wine list justify the spend if you are here for the grill. Families are welcome, though it is not a kid-specialist. There are familiar options for kids like fries, simple pastas, and grilled chicken, but no explicit kids menu mentioned. For picky eaters, stick to straightforward dishes and shareable sides; for adventurous teens, ceviche and empanadas are easy wins.

At a Glance

Wood-fired steaks and empanadas are consistent crowd-pleasers
Attentive, solution-oriented service with strong wine guidance
Premium prices and small side portions
Occasional seasoning or doneness misses on certain cuts
Good for groups and celebrations with semi-private options

What Sets It Apart

Argentinian wood-fired grill
Robust Malbec wine selection
Strong event and large-party handling

What People Love

Satisfying, juicy steaks from the wood grill
Empanadas and seafood starters that pop
Attentive staff who correct issues quickly
A Malbec-forward wine list that pairs well

Points of Concern

Pricing is genuinely premium (mains $24-53, sides $11-15) which may surprise casual diners
Some reports of tough ribeye or bland paella; ask for guidance on cuts
Parking can be tricky; expect to use nearby lots
Isolated service lapses during rush or with large parties

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$60-82 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Pair Entraña with Malbec and Papas Provenzal for a classic combo
For pescatarians, Pulpo starter plus Tagliolini Golfo Nuevo covers both flavor and variety

Perfect For

Date night with steak and Malbec
Business dinners needing reliable service
Family celebrations and small events
Out-of-town friends visiting Pasadena

Location Insights

Area: Lively Pasadena corridor near Playhouse District, mixes date-night spots, cafes, and boutiques; draws locals and visitors.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit streets with steady evening foot traffic; standard urban vigilance advised.

Nearby: Close to Caltech, Pasadena Playhouse, offices and apartments; street parking with nearby garages or lots.

Bungalow HeavenBungalow Heaven is a residential neighborhood known for its early 20th-century Craftsman-style homes and tree-lined streets. The dining scene nearby is casual to upscale, with a mix of family-friendly eateries and refined restaurants, reflecting a relaxed yet sophisticated social atmosphere.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–21:00 Tuesday12:00–22:00 Wednesday12:00–22:00 Thursday12:00–22:00 Friday12:00–22:30 Saturday12:00–22:30 Sunday12:00–21:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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