Hidden down the side streets of Green Point, Don Armando is an Argentinian restaurant specialising in flavoursome meats and hearty sides. Eat Out critic Nikita Buxton nabs a table.

Fast facts

Price: R150 on average for a main meal
Serves: Argentinian steak and grills
Best for: a hearty meat-filled feast with friends
Parking: The security guard keeps street-side parking for patrons, but they do fill up quickly
Star ratings: Food 4, service 4, ambience 4

The golden empanadas.

Food

The menu is predominantly for meat lovers, but the starter section consists of a few veg-friendly options. Kick off with the recommended empañadas: the generous portion of hand pies is made up of perfectly golden pastry filled with your choice of meat or veg. The vegetarian option is delightful and packed with corn that pops in your mouth, while the mince is tasty but a touch dry. The pies are served with a tomato salsa and are ideal for sharing. Other recommended starter dishes are the chorizo grande with Argentinian sausage, grilled provolone cheese with sun-dried tomatoes, and the prawn skewer with grilled fennel.

Don Armando. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

Don Armando’s meaty mains consist of everything from classic sirloin steak and rump to grilled short rib, T-bone and lamb chops. The rump (best ordered rare) is exceptional. The meat is incredibly tender and full of flavour, and comes served with a simple chimichurri. The prime rib steak had been aged to its peak stage and was a recommended dish for the night. All mains are served with a fresh and spicy chimichurri sauce and papas fritas (potato chips) or salad. There are also some additional sides from which to choose, should you wish for something more exciting. The cauliflower mash is light and fluffy, and the deep-fried baby marrow is a crisp and delicious accompaniment to the meat.

If you can find the space for dessert, ask your waiter what the day’s options are. The dulce de leche pancakes are a must, if available. Perfect for sharing, the sweet yet slightly salted crêpes are drizzled in a glossy caramel sauce and served with a smooth dollop of vanilla ice cream.

A photo posted by Zoe & Josh (@in.mood.for.food) on Jul 3, 2015 at 1:33pm PDT

Drinks

The wine list is concise, but includes some top-quality local choices as well as some interesting Argentinian reds to pair with the steaks.

Service

Staff are extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Drinks are topped up and plates are whisked away without fuss.

  A photo posted by Rude Food Cape Town (@rude_foodct) on May 30, 2016 at 8:28pm PDT

Ambience

This is no steakhouse. Don Armando’s décor boasts warm wood touches, leather seating and muted yet modern finishes. The downstairs bar is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for pre-dinner drinks. This trendy restaurant offers a surprisingly cosy breakaway from the quiet road.

And…

Be sure to ask for recommendations from the friendly staff. They’ll be able to tell you which cuts are at their peak and which sides to pair with them.

Have you dined at Don Armando recently? Rate and review them now to put them in the running for the 2016 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Everyday Eateries.  Your review also enters you in our draw for R1000 cash to one lucky reviewer each month until September.

Eat Out critics dine anonymously and pay for their meals in full. Read our editorial policy here.