Seemor
LALA'S Argentine Grill On MelroseB+Worth Trying
7229 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
· Argentinian restaurant, Chicken restaurant, Italian restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1936 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Casual Argentinian grill with tasty steaks, generous portions, and lively patio; value is solid for Melrose but expect occasional service hiccups.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
LALA's Argentine Grill delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by reliably excellent skirt steak and chimichurri, paired with attentive, friendly service and a warm, inviting patio setting that makes it a natural choice for casual gatherings on Melrose. However, inconsistent execution—occasional watery sauces, undercooked proteins, and uneven allergy handling—prevents it from reaching higher territory. Generous portions and fair pricing reinforce its appeal as a reliable local favorite rather than a destination standout.
Restaurant Summary
Set on Melrose, LALA'S delivers a relaxed Argentinian grill vibe with a warm, lively patio and friendly servers who often check in without hovering. Diners talk about juicy skirt steak with chimichurri and salmon with Dijon, noting, "The steak was spot on and the portions generous." Post-renovation ambiance feels warm and inviting with casual energy ideal for birthdays or pre-show dinners at Groundlings. Cooking leans classic and comforting: grilled meats, simple sauces, and pastas over fireworks, more traditional than trendy. When the kitchen is on, flavors land clean and satisfying; a few reports cite watery sauces or under-seasoned plates, and allergy handling can be uneven, so ask clear questions. Portion sizes are hearty, which makes the value feel solid for Melrose. For families, it works well. Kids can do angel hair, plain pastas, chicken, burgers, and fries; there is even vegan pasta. From the menu, options like penne with light cream sauce or simple chicken and mashed potatoes are safe bets. No kids menu is listed, but the offerings are flexible enough for younger diners, with servers generally accommodating special requests.
At a Glance
- Flavorful skirt steak with bright chimichurri and hearty sides
- Lively covered patio that is dog-friendly
- Portions are generous, value is good for the area
- Occasional inconsistency (sauces thin, undercooked chicken reports)
- Allergy guidance and billing on specials can be unclear
What Sets It Apart
- classic_argentine_grill
- generous_portions
- covered_pet_friendly_patio
What People Love
- Bright, garlicky chimichurri with steak
- Comforting mashed potatoes, including mushroom version
- Friendly, attentive servers like Blas
- Easygoing ambiance that suits groups
Points of Concern
- A few recent reports of undercooked chicken; verify doneness on arrival
- Some diners found sauces watery or flavors muted post-renovation
- Allergy handling can be inconsistent; reconfirm ingredients and sauces
- Parking on Melrose can be tight during peak hours
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For pescatarians: Salmon Dijon or Mahi Mahi Popeye with sautéed spinach.
- For vegetarians: Provoleta plus Ñoqui or Canelónes; vegan spinach pappardelle available.
- For budget lunch: Look for steak lunch specials around $17.95 when offered (may vary).
Perfect For
- Casual steak night without dress codes
- Pre-show dinner near Groundlings
- Birthday gatherings on a lively patio
- Takeout salmon and mashed potatoes comfort meal
Location Insights
Area: Trendy Melrose Ave corridor with boutiques, street art, and casual dining; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally busy, well-trafficked retail strip; typical urban caution at night, good visibility.
Nearby: Near Groundlings Theatre, shops, bars; patio dining fits people-watching vibe.
West HollywoodWest Hollywood offers a lively social atmosphere with a strong emphasis on nightlife, trendy restaurants, and boutique shopping. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from casual eateries to high-end establishments, often frequented by a fashionable and culturally engaged crowd.
Melrose AvenueMelrose Avenue is known for its eclectic mix of trendy boutiques, street art, and a variety of dining options that cater to a hip and youthful clientele. It is a popular destination for those seeking unique culinary experiences and stylish ambiance.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–23:00
Tuesday11:00–23:00
Wednesday11:00–23:00
Thursday11:00–23:00
Friday11:00–00:00
Saturday11:00–00:00
Sunday11:00–23:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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