The Argentine-inspired wine bar Franciska has opened in the former Cabana space on Middle Street.

Owner Alex Marchesini launched Franciska April 3 at 11 Middle St. The cozy space can seat 20 customers, including at a four-seat bar.

The former Cabana space on Middle Street has become the Argentinian wine bar Franciska. Photo by Angie Bryan

Marchesini wants to introduce customers to Argentine wines beyond the country’s popular Malbec varietal, wines such as Torrontés and Bonarda. The venue’s wine list includes 15 South American wines (all available by the glass, half bottle or full bottle) as well as 30 from producers in Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Bosnia and domestic West Coast vineyards.

The food at Franciska focuses on the cuisine of Argentina, particularly the Spanish- and Italian-influenced food of Buenos Aires, including such dishes as ribeye steak with chimichurri ($48), Milanesa Napolitano (breaded grass-fed beef tenderloin cutlet, $32), a selection of small plates like beef empanadas ($8), and snacks such as house-smoked olives and Marcona almonds ($6 each).

Marchesini is a native Argentinian who has worked as a sommelier and wine director at chef Lydia Shire’s Scampo in Boston and as a hospitality consultant at venues including Maine’s Camden Harbour Inn. He has also owned restaurants in Oregon and Los Angeles.

Franciska is open Thursday through Sunday from 5 to 10 p.m. this week, but starting April 15, it will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. Because the space is so small, Marchesini strongly encourages customers to make reservations online via Open Table.