A best-kept secret. Off the beaten path. Undiscovered. These are words we use to describe a hidden gem, and that’s exactly what Malbec & More is. Daniela and Carlos Perez left their home country, Argentina, in 2023 and never looked back. With a goal of becoming entrepreneurs, the couple moved to South Florida in search of a business opportunity. When they stepped into the Cheese & Wine Café in Lantana, they knew it was their new home.
Then, late last year, they rebranded the local watering hole into Malbec & More, an homage to their home country’s beloved wine. The eight-seat jewel box features a spacious bar, perfect for enjoying one of Carlos’s carefully curated and regularly rotated wine flights. On the evening I visited, I tried the red flight ($33) with two pours from California, one from Argentina and an Italian import. For those who love white wines or bubbles, or want a combination, Carlos has you covered. Speaking of flights, chef Carlos, who makes his own sourdough, offers a pizza flight with a choice of his four signature pies that I can’t wait to try on my next visit.
Where Carlos excels in tapas, pizzas and charcuterie platters, Daniela is the smile who greeted us when we arrived, and she masterfully guided us through the menu. We started with the baked dates ($15). The hearty nature’s candy is stuffed with Gruyère, drizzled with local honey and wrapped in a crispy bacon strip that hit all the right notes on my palate. We also tried Carlos’ golden provoleta ($15), which I only wish had been served with bread. Luckily, our third tapa, the escargot ($15), came bubbling with ample garlic and butter—and his sourdough slices. Daniela suggested we try the brisket bruschetta ($12), and the tender eight-hour braised meat topped with caramelized onions and gooey mozzarella did not disappoint.
For the finale, we chose Carlos’ take on a classic Argentine trifle ($11). His creation has an extra-creamy consistency thanks to the ricotta and dulce de leche they import from Argentina. The final layer is the chocolinas, or chocolate biscuits, which he crumbles for a decadent and satisfying end to the meal.
Malbec & More is the couple’s American dream come true, and a hidden gem this special shouldn’t be hidden. Tip: Next time you visit, make sure to ask about Malbec, the owners’ Corgi.
IF YOU GO
PARKING: Complimentary garage parking
HOURS: Tues. – Sat., 5 – 10 p.m.
PRICES: $8 – $26
WEBSITE: malbecandmore.com
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