Tango & Malbec
Houston
The name sounds like, um, a Buenos Aires vineyard? We’re still pondering. Although we did not observe anyone actually dancing at this spacious Argentine-influenced venue a block from the Galleria, we were offered plenty of fine red wine and smoke-grilled cuts from various edible critters. Tango & Malbec goes beyond the South American steakhouse shtick, so we began by sharing flaky empanadas (pictured), one filled with ground beef and olives, one with ham and melty cheese, and one with cream of corn. Then we dug into the traditional parrillada completa, or mixed grill: buffalo tenderloin, beef short ribs, blood sausage, and lamb chops, along with eggplant escabeche and sautéed mushrooms. Bar. 2800 Sage Rd (713-629-8646). Open Mon–Wed 11–11, Thur–Sat 11–2 a.m., Sun 11–10. $$$ W+
Seasons 52
Plano
We got off to a great start here with fresh organic greens topped with red and yellow grape tomatoes, toasted pumpkin seeds, and a dynamite white balsamic vinaigrette. It’s hard to believe, but nothing on the seasonally inspired menu contains more than 475 calories; thus we guiltlessly devoured an entrée of house-made Sonoma goat cheese ravioli (the size of fried eggs) with roasted garlic and basil. Desserts, $2.50 each and served in square shot glasses, are mini-versions of treats like Key lime pie and carrot cake; we quite liked the Meyer lemon pound cake. The room is spacious, with an inviting outdoor patio, and the wine list is impressive, with sixty available by the glass. Bar. The Shops at Legacy, 7300 Lone Star Dr (972-312-8852). Open Sun–Thur 11:30–10, Fri & Sat 11:30–11. $$$ W+
