We wanted to explore Argentine Tango culture some how, some way, and stumbled across this place which turned out to be perfect. Although we considered the bigger shows designed for tourists we looked instead for something more local and found it here.
Just a entrance at the street, walk back and it opens up to a medium sized dance floor surrounded by tables and chairs. We arrived at 9 and there was already a class going on. We watched from a table as the dance lesson finished and then signed up for the next one.
Our lesson started at 9:30 and beginners, like us were broken out from more experienced dancers. While they learned advanced techniques, we learned the basic step. The lessons were partly in English and partly in Spanish but it was easy to follow along in either language.
After the lesson we stayed and around 11:00 the whole place was filled with locals who had reserved tables, and it seemed that some even had reserved drinks as they were served without giving an order. Many seemed like long time regulars which may explain the drinks. All the closest tables to the dance floor were reserved but we could still see the dancers from a back table. The regulars came prepared carrying in dancing shoes and hand fans used to to cool off with after dancing.
Drinks included wine, beer, and a limited selection of well drinks. We got a bottle of Champagne and two bottles of water for A$900 or US$12 (including tip).
It was great to see the whole spectacle of Malonga culture play out before our eyes. The clothes, the characters, and of course the dancing were awesome to take in. It wasn't a show, and we were kind of being taking advantage of the situation by gawking at it instead of fully participating, we did dance a little, but still it was awesome to feel like we are seeing the real deal.