Don Armando

Watch out Cape Town steakhouses – there’s a new kid on the block. And they specialise in the infamous Argentine asado style of grilled meat. Say “hola” to Don Armando.

Argentina is renowned for its devotion to beef, and the new Don Armando restaurant in Green Point certainly brings that dedication to locals. The restaurant is stylish and modern; with plenty of wood and steel and you can enjoy your meal in a cosy booth or even at the bar. The ambiance is very much intimate, unpretentious and relaxed. While they don’t serve proper Argentine beef, they serve the equally impressive local Chalmar beef. But true to the Argentinian tradition of asado, the meats at Don Armando are grilled on charcoal.

Entradas
We enjoyed a selection of starters to get the taste buds flowing. The Argentinian blood sausage served with salsa was superb, as was the grilled sweetbread. They have a wide selection of entradas, like empanadas, lamb skewers and grilled chorizo. We were wary of the mains to follow though, so didn’t go overboard.

Grillados
The majority of the menu is dedicated to meat and besides the usual suspects – you can expect to find some more exotic style cuts like the short ribs or picanha. The beef is all available in two choices of serving sizes, and are accompanied by their moreish chimichurri sauce and usual sides (the potato chips are hand-cut). If you’re after something a little different though, you can choose from extras like cauliflower mash or sweet potato chips.

Our half of the table decided to order a few giant cuts to share between us, which turned out to be a great option. Plates of short rib, picanha and t-bone were served and they were all perfectly grilled, juicy cuts bursting with meaty flavour.

Service
The staff was welcoming and attentive and well informed of the menu, although they did forget a few items ordered through the evening. The lower bar area was filled with clientele, and it looks like the restaurant already has some happy regulars. They offer a R50 corkage, which always goes down well with us.

Verdict
Green Point is sometimes referred to has beenas the Soho of Cape Town, with many trendy restaurants and popular nightclubs. Don Armando is a great addition to the local neighbourhood, and Cape Town’s steak scene. Book now.

Overall:   7.4 (average of scores)
Steak:       8.5
Sides:       6.8
Service:    6.1
Value:       7.2


20 Cobern Road
Green Point
021 418 1462