TL;DR
San Telmo is Melbourneβs Argentinian grill built for anyone who hears the word βsteakβ and immediately starts planning dinner. Expect a roaring parrilla, smoky cuts, bold sides and enough flavour to justify a second round of wine. It is lively, cosy and dangerously easy to over-order.
San Telmo: where the grill rules
Walk through the door and the heat hits you instantly, the charcoal snapping and glowing as chefs work the parrilla with a level of confidence that makes it clear you are in a restaurant built around fire and flavour.
The open kitchen becomes part of the experience, inviting you to watch every blistered edge and every turn of the tongs as the team treats the grill like an art form rather than a cooking method.
Steak that means business
The steak menu is intentionally bold, with rib eye, rump and flank delivered to the table carrying that deep, smoky crust that only a proper charcoal grill can produce.
Small plates keep things moving with chorizo that brings serious heat, morcilla that rewards anyone willing to try it once and empanadas that seem to disappear before the plate even settles on the table.
Even the vegetables and salads demand attention, proving they have as much character as the meat rather than playing a supporting role.
Drinks that know their audience
The wine list leans heavily into Argentina and gives you everything from rich Malbecs to lighter whites and cocktails for anyone wanting to keep things balanced.
Staff are quick with thoughtful recommendations that help you match your meal without turning it into a full-blown decision-making crisis.
A room that gets the balance right
The space feels warm and polished with timber, leather and soft lighting creating an atmosphere that is lively without being overwhelming.
The hum of conversation blends with the quiet rhythm of the grill, giving the whole room a sense of comfort and anticipation at the same time.
Why it's worth the hype
San Telmo builds its entire identity around quality produce, honest cooking and a fire that does the talking, all while delivering a dining experience that feels generous, grounded and ideal for long lunches or big evenings with friends.



