Angie C.
Yelp
I've been to Gaucho a few times now, but always impromptu visits with friends where we sat in the bar area. Tonight we had a proper pre-theater dinner reservation so I feel qualified to give the spot a real review.
First, make sure to make a reservation if you are coming on a busy evening. This spot is busy, especially if there are shows, etc. going on in the Cultural District. The ambience is cool, eclectic and welcoming. There are two floors, with the downstairs having the bar and being a bit more bustling while upstairs, though still packed on a busy evening, felt a little more chill.
I'm a vegetarian and there are so many options for me here, which you might not expect if what you've heard about this place centers mostly around the Argentinian meat-based dishes. There are plenty of those and others in my party were very happy with the steak and pork dishes they ordered. Lots of fish dishes among the specials this evening. Our server, Daniel, wasn't afraid to make enthusiastic recommendations and mentioned that the vegetarian entrée featuring charred eggplant was one of his favorite things on the menu. I have previously had salads here and a couple of side items, so was excited to try a real, full plate vegetarian entrée. It did not disappoint, with the charred eggplant giving way to a tender center. It was surrounded by thoughtfully presented mushrooms, onions, beets and carrots, and on a layered bed of potatoes and grains. A really hearty and satisfying vegetarian dish.
There are tons more vegetarian options marked throughout the menu as well, including the aforementioned salads and roasted vegetables on crusty Mediterra ciabatta bread. I added on a side of Brussels sprouts tonight because I haven't previously had them here, and they were done exactly as I want restaurant Brussels to be done, crispy, almost candied in a balsamic glaze, a little bit of Parmesan. Perfection.
For dessert we ordered a couple of things to share among the table. The chocolate torta was a surprise, not at all heavy and dense as you might expect but layered in a way that made it light and sweet with a perfect side of homemade whipped cream. We also got a flan that to the best of my recollection had roasted apples and pears, and that might have been the biggest hit.
For a drink I had a nonalcoholic rose fizz with citrus and soda that was both pretty and delicious, everything I want in a mocktail. They had several on the menu and as I am more into N/A options these days, I wanted to call this out as I appreciate restaurants that are doing it regularly and not as a dry January thing.
First-rate meal with first-rate service. This is going to be in our regular rotation.