Graciela, a new steakhouse in New York City, has opened as the first U.S. venture by Argentine restaurateur Pablo Rivero. The restaurant is an offshoot of Rivero’s renowned Buenos Aires parrilla, Don Julio, which is celebrated as a culinary destination for its grill-focused approach to Argentine cuisine.

Located in a spacious two-room setting previously occupied by L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, Graciela offers an immersive dining experience distinguished by its attentive service and authentic atmosphere. The staff, dressed in custom pañuelos and coffee-colored chore jackets, greet guests enthusiastically, creating a lively and welcoming environment. This sizable team maintains a high employee-to-diner ratio, enabling frequent and informed interactions throughout the meal.

The menu at Graciela showcases traditional Argentine dishes with an emphasis on grilled meats. The restaurant is staffed by a rotating group of servers, including five employees from Buenos Aires, who bring local expertise and cultural insight to the dining experience. Their Argentine accents and knowledge support a bilingual service approach, accommodating both Spanish-speaking and English-speaking patrons.

Graciela’s opening coincided with heightened attention to Argentina following the recent World Cup final, where the national team faced Spain. Despite Argentina’s loss amid controversies involving accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct and negative fan behavior, the launch of Graciela offers a different representation of Argentine culture in the city. It arrives as a welcome culinary counterpoint, emphasizing the country’s rich gastronomic heritage through its signature parrilla style.

Among the highlighted dishes is the Argentine rib eye, a staple of the Don Julio menu, prepared with skill and authenticity. Early patrons include not only local diners but also notable visitors, indicating the restaurant’s fast rise in popularity. Graciela’s blend of traditional flavors, polished service, and stylish setting positions it as a notable addition to New York’s vibrant dining scene, providing a new avenue for experience with Argentine cuisine on the world stage.