A warm, inviting atmosphere. We were greeted with live tango music (a violinist and keyboardist). There is a nice, comfortable buzz in the air, the feel of many regulars returning for great steaks and a fine selection of wines.\r
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Our waiter, Dan, was super-friendly, energetic but professional. He really seemed proud to work at Carlitos. And who could blame him? This small, family-run restaurant really has a handle on customer service and creating a relaxed environment.\r
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The wine steward, one of the owner's sons, recommended a fine malbec blend, and did not try to push the more expensive or larger bottles. (That night, my cousin and I could only handle a half-bottle, and we definitely wanted to try an Argentinean red.)\r
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We started with a beef empanada. Then progressed on to their famous ""papas fritas"", skinny frites infused with just the right amount of garlic. The portion was quite generous. Then came the meat... we shared the 14-oz. ojo with chimichurri sauce, which was tender, juicy... one of the best steaks that I have had in years!! It was my first time trying chimichurri. It was more subtle than I expected... very addicting.\r
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The various desserts featured at the end were tempting, but at that amount we could only admire them with our eyes... too stuffed! All in all, a place worth many repeat visits. Can't wait to return to try the other cuts of meat.
Pros: warm, inviting room; friendly, proud service; live musicians; great wine selection; MEAT
Cons: some of the tables-for two are quite close together and may not be the most comfortable
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