LOCAL Houston | The City Guide May 2018 | Page 54

STYLE+LEISURE DINNER WITH A TWIST TANGO & MALBEC’S ARGENTINEAN ACCENTS Since 2010, TANGO & MALBEC has provided Houstonians with an authentic Argentinean culinary experi- ence – and a great place to dance! A beacon of South American cuisine and culture, the restaurant’s debut marked a new beginning for Houston’s South American dining scene, as co-owner and General Manager Gina Pagni-Ferreira not only meticulously executed an Argentinean- and Uruguayan-inspired menu, but also established Tango & Malbec as a pillar of Argentinean style, drawing inspiration from the vibrant dining destinations you might find on the streets of Argentina. The restaurant’s red and black interiors – which are adorned with rustic panels of exposed brick – imme- diately transport patrons to those very streets. Decorative street lights line the expansive 6,000sf space, which is fully outfitted with three private dining rooms, a 30-seat patio and a cozy wine cellar also equipped for dining. As the name suggests, the cultural dance of tango and Argentina’s signature Malbec wine both play a significant role in the restaurant operation. The spirit of tango, which originated on the Rio de la Plata in Argentina and Uruguay, is woven throughout the concept. Diners are not only treated to live tango performances on Saturday nights, but patrons also flock to the restaurant on Sundays from 5pm to 6pm for weekly tango lessons for $10. www.tangomalbec.com 56 secret's out 54 L O C A L | 5 . 2018 60 dance dad (r) evolution 62 things i like 64 fat finds 68 destination 72 scene 74 the last word 5 . 2018 | L O C A L 55