What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
San Telmo
Review
About
Following the Argentine ethos that eating, drinking and most importantly life are there to be enjoyed with friends, family and lovers. From midday to late at night we offer a shared menu bringing people together just like a family Asado in Argentina. Following the Argentine ethos that eating, drinking and most importantly life are there to be enjoyed with friends, family and lovers. From midday to late at night we offer a shared menu bringing people together just like a family Asado in Argentina. In our endeavour to capture the essence of Argentine culture and cuisine, we have imported a bespoke 2.5 metre parrilla charcoal grill, hand made by Pirincho, a lifelong master of the craft. He is regarded as one of the most important parrilla craftsman in the world. Pirincho’s previous customers include former Argentine presidents, the Ferrari workshop in Modena, and the VIP restaurant in the Barcelona FC Stadium.
Features
CUISINES
Steakhouse, Latin, Grill, Argentinian
Meal types
Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
Special Diets
Gluten free options
FEATURES
Accepts Credit Cards
American Express
Digital Payments
Full Bar
Gift Cards Available
Mastercard
Reservations
Seating
Serves Alcohol
Table Service
Visa
Wheelchair Accessible
Location
Central Business District
Can a gluten free person get a good meal at this restaurant?
Save this restaurant
Hours
Closed now
• Opens at 12:00 PM
Sunday
12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Monday
12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Tuesday
12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Wednesday
12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Thursday
5:00 pm - 10:30 am
Friday
12:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Saturday
12:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Contribute
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
4.3
720 reviews
Excellent
380
Very good
225
Average
70
Poor
25
Terrible
20
Dave W
Melbourne2 contributions
Oct 2024 • family
If you are looking for a cheap steak keep looking.
Not that in any way is dining here overly priced. This is properly aged high quality beef cooked perfectly. My wife strayed a bit and had the chicken and said it was the best she ever had anywhere.
The small entrance tucked away down a city laneway, opens into a large yet still intimate restaurant.
Beautifully furnished and restrained lighting add to the fantastic ambience. Further enhanced by the smells from the fully viewable kitchen. Our experience was made yet more enjoyable by the staff all of which were outstanding and clearly know the difference between genuinely friendly and welcoming as opposed to intrusive and annoying. They all excelled in there roles whilst remaining professional not officious.
The menu is big enough to offer choice but not so big as to stray outside what you would expect or want.
If you like meat you will not go home dissatisfied.
The wine menu is excellent, the drink and cocktails were diverse enough and delicious and fairly priced for a city venue.
We were a large group of family there for my birthday and as such nearly every dish crossed our tables. Not one single complaint or disappointment.
In fact virtually all of us had an exceptional meal. The couple of us that didn't still had a bloody good one.
No mean feat to achieve.
Genuinely flawless from walking up to the door to walking out of it a few hrs later.
There is even a car park backing onto the end of the lane way.
Written 1 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CocoTampa123
Perth1727 contributions
Aug 2024 • family
Nice venue with plenty of atmosphere. Service very good, very attentive and helpful. Good range on the menu, the sides that we had were fantastic, including the fried broccoli and cauliflower. I felt that some of the steak was quite 'chewy' considering the prices paid. Good selection of wine, but at the premium pricing end.
Written 12 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tour-birds
Singapore347 contributions
Nov 2023 • solo
Argentinian beef is one of the most tender in the world and I was looking forward to taste it here. On a busy Friday night I snagged a place at the bar counter. Entering the restaurant one can see a huge open oven where they grill the steaks.
Service was very welcoming and warm. The wait was 40 mins because they need time to grill it over the charcoal. I ordered the scotch fillet and because I dined solo they very kindly gave me half portions of fries and salad.
The steak came out very well but it lacked the oomph that I was expecting - both from the cut and the taste. Don’t get me wrong. It was a very well executed steak but I was expecting something more.
Overall I thought it was a good steak and the service was great. But it failed to make the excellent review I was thinking of.
Written 31 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pollard Family
Nashville211 contributions
Apr 2024 • couples
My daughter who lives here in Australia and travels to Melbourne for business recommended this restaurant. As we approached the restaurant you’re in an alley way but the smell of the fire grill food is overwhelming … smell so good. We enter and the hostess tajes is to our table (reservation is highly recommended due to its popularity). As we sit the server (Jack) comes and explains the ordering from their menu. He asks our favorite types of food (meat) and gives suggestion to assist you to have the best time at the restaurant. The meat entree usually takes 40-45 minutes to cook so appetizers are strongly recommended. We had several empanada that were awesome (several types to choose from). Their beverage selections were large to choose from. After you finished your appetizers then the meat entrees and sides were brought out. We ate then in family style (sharing steak filets and chicken with dudes of potatoes and salads). Overall we got full without spending too much money and the foods were delicious. I did have a lemon sherbet in Apple cider which was amazing.
Written 14 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ChipsMeltonMowbray
Melton Mowbray196 contributions
Jan 2024 • friends
Recommended by our Friends Daughter as a true lanefood Melbourne experience. We ate outside which was nice.It was completely full inside at 19.00.
Our server made several recommendations which were all good. Starters all arrived at different times but he advised us that would be the case due to the different cooking times.
The dry aged steak was really good as were the selection of vegetables. The pancakes for dessert were delicious.
It was the best meal I have had at a restaurant for several months.
Written 17 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lauren N
Melbourne66 contributions
Feb 2023 • couples
Fantastic evening. A busy Valentine’s Day evening and if the staff were under pressure you wouldn’t know it at all. Our lovely server (I suspect a manger) was fantastic, great knowledge of the menu with solid recommendations. Wish I’d caught his name (wearing and blue and white check shirt on valentines evo), great bants, attentive, couldn’t fault him. The rest of the staff were friendly too and working very hard. The venue itself is lovely, nice without feeling stuffy, can dress up or dress down either way I don’t think you’d feel uncomfortable. Just a really welcoming vibe. Finally the food, so good, wish I’d got more of the empanadas, but I was warned, the pork cheek was as good as it was bigged up to be and the steak was beautiful! I actually tried to buy some of the chimichurri accompaniment but unfortunately they don’t sell it here. I’ll track some down though ☺️ we don’t normally do dessert but our arm was twisted and so glad. The whole dinner and experience was tops and we’ve left entirely satisfied without being swelled. Look forward to the next time 👍
Written 14 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
San Telmo M
Hola Lauren,
Thanks so much for the detailed feedback. We are thrilled to learn that your Valentine's day celebrations with us were enjoyable and that everything lived up to expectations.
Please contact the restaurant at info@santelmo.com.au and we can look into arranging some of our delicious chimichurri for you.
We look forward to seeing you again soon.
Muchas gracias!
Written 18 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tim G
Melbourne86 contributions
Mar 2023 • none
Last night our family dined at San Telmo. One son and daughter-in-law had dined there before and raved about it, so the rest of us were primed to enjoy the experience.
We were not disappointed. It was the perfect dining experience. The restaurant has a busy hum to it, but not too loud. The food was all spot-on ( my filet steak was the best I have had in many years ) and delivered at appropriate time intervals so that we were neither rushed nor forgotten. The beverages were all fine. Most of all, the young lady who looked after us all night was absolutely brilliant. She was knowledgeable, engaged, accurate, attentive, and always positive.
A wonderful evening.
Written 8 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
San Telmo M
Hola Tim,
Gracias for the wonderful review of your dining experience with us! We are glad that you had such a stellar experience.
We can't wait to have you dine with us again in the future.
The team at San Telmo
Written 9 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Colin D
Houghton-le-Spring101 contributions
Nov 2022 • couples
When last in Oz in 2015 this restaurant was recommended to us and the meal was outstanding. Nearly eight years later we thought we'd chance our arm to see if it was just as good. We needn't have worried. We'd pre-booked for 8.15pm on a Saturday night. The atmosphere was once again electric and the staff so attentive throughout the evening....a big shout out here to Juan who looked after us.
We had a sharing starter of fried broccoli and pecorino, different but lush. We then had a beautiful ribeye steak to share with sides of 'fancy' carrots and potatoes. As far as steaks go as good as it gets. Dessert was crème caramel which was delightful. We had a 2018 Argentinian Malbec to complement our choices.
This evening was an experienced rather than just a meal. Highly recommended.
Written 12 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SandyW
Hobart57 contributions
Jan 2023 • couples
We were looking for a good steak house in Melbourne and San Telmo kept popping up in our searches. Booking strongly recommended... on a Thursday night we had limited options only a few days out, which is an encouraging sign of popularity.
The menu is not a long one, but there were enough options and my food allergies all catered for. The sharing plate style suits my husband and I, so we were very happy with the nature of ordering, well explained by the staff on the day. We had 2 smalls, 2 meat and 2 side dishes, and were very full at the end.
This is not cheap dining, but the quality was there. We were the first sitting, and were not quite hustled out, but certainly knew how much time we had left. Given we had 20 mins remaining found that a bit ..... odd.
The chimchirri (?) and salsa provided as part of every meal were delicious. We had chicken and hanger steak, both cooked to perfection. Highlights though were the beef tartare and the side dish of carrots. Recommended.
Written 14 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
San Telmo M
Hola,
Gracias for the lovely review of your time with us! We are glad you found our dishes lovely!
Come visit us again soon.
Muchas gracias!
Written 1 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Karen A
Sydney36 contributions
Dec 2022 • none
We had lunch at San Telmo the day the Soceroos lost to Argentina. The crew did a great job of not gloating and cheered us up with a fine meal. Note: this is a restaurant for meat lovers - see the cow-hide menus and awesome eating irons. The food is for sharing and comes at a leisurely pace accompanied by great beer and wine, making this a dream venue for lingering over a late lunch. We decanted to the bar afterwards, where the cocktails are made with skill and flair. Love it!
Written 4 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Humble diva
London135 contributions
Aug 2023 • solo
I wanted to write to say thank you for the terrific experience I had here last week. I was in Melbourne on a solo work trip and wandered down to San Telmo on a. Friday night on the off chance they could fit me in at the bar. I got a seat at the back bar and was treated superbly by two staff members (am male and a female). The steak was melt in the mouth, the premium pour Malbec delicious and the atmosphere was lovely and relaxed.. As someone who often has to dine solo, I can say that restaurant experiences are not always as positive as this one was. Thank you San Telmo. I can’t wait to bring my partner here on our next trip to Melbourne to try the superb food and wine. Five stars also for customer service!
Written 23 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rdk1
Melbourne188 contributions
Mar 2021 • none
San Telmo serves delicious meat and side dishes, at quite expensive prices. The first time you go listen to the servers as they explain how it works, as this is not a one dish per person type place.
Perfectly cooked meat, but also the vegtable side dishes were fabulous. We all agreed the carrot dish and the sweet potato dish were some of the best we've eaten.
Written 8 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
San Telmo M
Hola,
Muchas gracias for the wonderful review!
How divine are the zanahorias? Carrotty, nutty, sweet goodness that goes perfectly with our rich cuts of steak!
We look forward to hosting you again soon for another sharing style feast!
Written 20 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Travelsmints
Los Angeles568 contributions
Mar 2021 • none
San Telmo is an Argentinian steakhouse which is the sister restaurant of Asado.
We brought our friends here and the food was so good that we over-ordered! We loved their wine selection and their steak is a definite must-try. The empanadas are amazing as well, we highly recommend it.
Please come here with nothing but an empty stomach so you can fill yourself up with all of their signature dishes.
The staff are young and vibrant and the atmosphere of the restaurant makes it perfect for catching up with friends or family.
We had a wonderful experience and will definitely be back here again!
Written 4 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
San Telmo M
Hola,
Thank you so much for such a wonderful and detailed review.
We are thrilled you loved our steak and empanadas! You're definitely right....we are the kind of restaurant best attended hungry and ready to feast!
Hopefully we will see you again soon!
Written 20 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
F M
Melbourne204 contributions
Sept 2023 • friends
Sat outside with the heaters. Veges were tasty - broccoli, potatoes and those chargrilled greens, the meat was melt in your mouth but be conscious of what portion size you order. Loved the alfajor to finish it off was delectable while the Panqueques were seriously filled. Dont forget that the Mate tea is a caffeine hit for those who want to stay up all night!
Written 8 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
San Telmo M
Hola!
Thanks for taking the taking to leave us feedback.
We're happy to learn you enjoyed your experience at San Telmo.
Looking forward to hosting you again soon,
The team at San Telmo
Written 9 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Callum P
Melbourne96 contributions
July 2021 • none
We ventured into the city on a cold winters night to try out San Telmo and we were delighted. The service was excellent and really helpful for first time visitors as the staff were helpful in explaining how the menu and food was set up. The idea of the shared meal and plates suited us perfectly as we order a variety of dishes to share (along with Argentinian wine which was delightful). Each dish that we had was delicious and presented and prepared perfectly. The non meat menu items were fantastic and accompanied the meat dishes well but also would be excellent for non meat eaters. San Telmo was a delight and well worth a visit for anyone who loves steak.
Written 7 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Showing results 1-15 of 684
Related Stories
Best moderately priced restaurants
See all
Best nearby
We rank these hotels, restaurants, and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Central Business District
Full of discovery and delight, Melbourne’s laneways tease the imagination long after you’ve put your weary feet up to rest. They weave through the heart of the city: cafes, bars, restaurants and boutiques, throbbing with conversation and espresso coffee. You never quite know what you’ll find around the next corner: cobblestone alleys, old beer barrel hoists and even vats of simmering organic soup. There is the air of Berlin in the street art, a touch of Paris in the umbrella-shaded cafes and, reminiscent of Rome, eateries tucked away in the most unlikely of places. Perhaps you might want a break and cross the Yarra River to Southbank - walk along the promenade, bask in the sun at a waterside bar and decide whether to go to the nearby casino or book a ticket at the Melbourne theatre company.
Best nearby hotels
See all 
Best nearby restaurants
See all 
Is This Your Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Free Listing