Carlitos Gardel Argentine Steakhouse

Run by the Bozoghlian family since 1996, and around for even longer, this Argentinian steakhouse along Melrose Avenue offers an intoxicating mix of high-quality steaks and old-school vibes, all at a fairly reasonable price. For groups of four (or ambitious parties of two), the move here is the parrillada argentina, a family-style mix of sweetbreads, sausages, skirt steak and short ribs served on a miniature grill. I heavily recommend the wedge-like Caesar salad, which features whole anchovies on halved romaine hearts and thick shavings of Parmesan cheese. Sides like creamed corn and garlic fries are effortlessly constructed, and the house chimichurri, served alongside complimentary bread, is second to none. Carlitos Gardel is also one of the rare few spots in L.A. that can boast its own wine cellar, with a curated selection available by the quarter-liter for those who don't want to commit to a bottle. At meal’s end, indulge in a delightful array of desserts made by matriarch Azniv Bozoghlian, including a set of crepes stuffed with mouthwatering dulce de leche.