El Mate - Brooklyn

I enjoyed the food and the ambiance of the restaurant, but I must say I am not in agreement with the automatic gratuity added to the bill. I can see it being necessary for large groups, but for a typical couple, it seems unnecessary.

We started with polenta, fried calamari, and empanadas. The polenta was tasty, especially for mushroom lovers. However, the calamari was overcooked and too chewy. When I tried to send it back, the server didn't seem to care. The empanadas were average, with the spinach one being a bit bitter. The chicken Milanese was a letdown in terms of both presentation and taste. It was dry and lacked enough tomato sauce. The seafood risotto was okay, but it lacked flavor and had a loose consistency. Surprisingly, the shrimp and calamari were cooked well. Overall, I had a negative experience at this restaurant. Even the Caipirinhas were watered down and lacked sweetness. I would not recommend this place for those seeking delicious food. Instead, I suggest trying Libertador for authentic Argentinian cuisine.

We met some friends at Queue Beer nearby for drinks and decided to grab dinner at El Mate based on its high Yelp ratings. The photos looked appetizing and the reviews were positive, so we took a chance and were pleasantly surprised. Though the restaurant wasn't large, they offered outdoor seating in the back. We opted to sit indoors and were greeted by a friendly server who recommended some delicious chips and salsa. I enjoyed a spicy margarita with passion fruit, which was perfect. We couldn't resist trying all the empanadas, with the chorizo and ham and cheese being our favorites. For my main dish, I ordered the beef Milanesa Classica, which was fantastic and quite filling. The rice and beans on the side were also delicious. Although we were too full to try dessert, the overall experience was great with a lively atmosphere, good music, welcoming service, and flavors that reminded me of South America. I would highly recommend El Mate and will definitely be returning.

If you find yourself in Carroll Gardens, I highly recommend paying a visit to El Mate. This restaurant stands out from the rest, offering a delightful Argentine and Brazilian menu that is sure to please your taste buds and create a memorable dining experience.When dining at El Mate, be sure not to miss out on their tasty pies, empanadas, and flank steaks. These dishes are perfect for sharing with friends, allowing you to savor the flavors together and spend a pleasant time in a convivial atmosphere. The pies are baked to perfection, with a flaky crust and flavorful fillings. The empanadas are a true delight, with a crispy exterior and a variety of delicious fillings to choose from. And the flank steak, cooked to your preference, is tender, juicy, and bursting with savory goodness.For dessert, El Mate offers a range of delectable options, including leche flans, crepes, and tres leches cakes. These sweet treats provide the perfect ending to a satisfying meal. Pair your meal with a glass of delicious red sangria, a smooth malbec, or a refreshing beer. And if you're a coffee lover, don't miss out on their great brew.El Mate provides both indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing you to choose the ambiance that suits your preference. Whether you want to enjoy the cozy interior or bask in the fresh air outside, the choice is yours.The success of El Mate can be attributed, in part, to its courteous staff. The service here is enjoyable, with the staff going above and beyond to ensure that guests have a pleasant dining experience. They are attentive, knowledgeable, and always ready to assist with any inquiries or requests.In terms of pricing, El Mate offers reasonable rates for the quality and portion sizes of their dishes. Guests feel that they receive good value for their money, making it a worthwhile dining destination.The restaurant itself boasts an exotic ambiance and fancy decor, transporting you to a world of Argentine and Brazilian flavors. The attention to detail in the decor adds to the overall dining experience, creating a visually appealing setting.In conclusion, El Mate is a culinary gem that should not be missed when exploring Carroll Gardens. With its enticing Argentine and Brazilian menu, featuring pies, empanadas, and flank steaks, as well as delectable desserts, there's something to satisfy every palate. The enjoyable service, reasonable prices, and exotic ambiance make it a standout choice for a memorable dining experience. Choose El Mate and indulge in a culinary journey that will leave you wanting to come back for more.

If you find yourself in Carroll Gardens, I highly recommend paying a visit to El Mate. This restaurant stands out from the rest, offering a delightful Argentine and Brazilian menu that is sure to please your taste buds and create a memorable dining experience.When dining at El Mate, be sure not to miss out on their tasty pies, empanadas, and flank steaks. These dishes are perfect for sharing with friends, allowing you to savor the flavors together and spend a pleasant time in a convivial atmosphere. The pies are baked to perfection, with a flaky crust and flavorful fillings. The empanadas are a true delight, with a crispy exterior and a variety of delicious fillings to choose from. And the flank steak, cooked to your preference, is tender, juicy, and bursting with savory goodness.For dessert, El Mate offers a range of delectable options, including leche flans, crepes, and tres leches cakes. These sweet treats provide the perfect ending to a satisfying meal. Pair your meal with a glass of delicious red sangria, a smooth malbec, or a refreshing beer. And if you're a coffee lover, don't miss out on their great brew.El Mate provides both indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing you to choose the ambiance that suits your preference. Whether you want to enjoy the cozy interior or bask in the fresh air outside, the choice is yours.The success of El Mate can be attributed, in part, to its courteous staff. The service here is enjoyable, with the staff going above and beyond to ensure that guests have a pleasant dining experience. They are attentive, knowledgeable, and always ready to assist with any inquiries or requests.In terms of pricing, El Mate offers reasonable rates for the quality and portion sizes of their dishes. Guests feel that they receive good value for their money, making it a worthwhile dining destination.The restaurant itself boasts an exotic ambiance and fancy decor, transporting you to a world of Argentine and Brazilian flavors. The attention to detail in the decor adds to the overall dining experience, creating a visually appealing setting.In conclusion, El Mate is a culinary gem that should not be missed when exploring Carroll Gardens. With its enticing Argentine and Brazilian menu, featuring pies, empanadas, and flank steaks, as well as delectable desserts, there's something to satisfy every palate. The enjoyable service, reasonable prices, and exotic ambiance make it a standout choice for a memorable dining experience. Choose El Mate and indulge in a culinary journey that will leave you wanting to come back for more.