***** Several years ago, Frank and I visited Artango Bar & Steakhouse on Lincoln Avenue ( and Lawrence in what is called Lincoln Square). Over the years, we have experienced several Argentinian steak houses and recently heard that the Artango people had changed suppliers and that their steaks were even better than before. I spoke with them and advised them that I would love to do another tasting and since my granddaughter Caitlin was in town for her “golden birthday” and she is a chef with a degree in culinary sciences, let’s make it a double special evening. We began our evening, Jane, Caitlin and I finding our table whenre our server , Estaban made certain that we had a pleasant and memorable evening. We ordered drinks. Being a vodka man, I had their special drink, the Baires Martini- vodka, empress gin, liches liquor, lemon juice and simple syrup. Of course there was a lichee nut in the drink- perfecto. Caitlin and Jane had a coconut drink called the Brazilian Coconut punch: barrel aged Cachaca, clement creole shrubb D’Orange liqueor, coconut cream, egg whites, azteca chocolate bitters- wow…and they loved them.
Our appetizers were the Crudo- Sashimi style fish, avocado, jalapeno, scallions, leche de tigre and truffle oil- loved this dish! and they were served with some very yummy plaintain chips. We also enjoyed Pulpo A La Plancha- seared octopus, domino potatoes, aji panca and aji amarillo sauces ( a delight). The menu showed many other items to taste including some beautiful empanadas ( the table next to us had a platter of them, causing me to say to jane “I will return”).
While they have many menu items to select from including steaks and surf items as well as a great selection of pastas and what appears to be a beautiful Paella ( for two- again, another visit) we figured one of their “sharing” menu items would best satisfy all of us. They have several and our choice/selection was the Fin Del Mundo ( the Patagonian Experience). This consisted of a slow-grilled NY strip steak, 2 slow grilled lamb dishes, heart of ribeye steak, Matrimonio ( a selection of grilled Argentianian sausages/to die for!)
and molllejas ( sweetbreads /very tasty). The sauces are classic and also includes a spicy chimichurri as well as a malbec sauce for those who like a little extra spice in their life. We added some Charred brussel sprouts as a side. FYI The side selection is more than one could ever sak for.
Since it was Caitlin’s birthday ( 29 years of age on the 29th)Estabon brought us some champagne to toast the Golden Birthday and for dessert the chocolate cake and the flan- all perfect!
I know there are many Argentinian and Brazilian steakhouses in and around Chicago, but I must tell you that Artango is a perfect spot for an authentic dinner, properly prepared and with a staff that will make you feel comfortable even if you have never experienced the flavors of Argentina.
Artango Bar & Steakhouse is located at
4767 North Lincoln Avenue
www.artangosteakhouse.com
HAPPY HOUR: Tuesday-Sunday ( but not on Saturday) 5 p.m.-7 p.m. ask bartender for more details!!!
Hours
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