Review
Salento Steakhouse
Date of Visit:
A Colombian Feast That Redefines the Strip Mall Experience
When we first heard about Salento Steakhouse, a Colombian gem tucked into a quiet strip mall off Silver Forest Drive in St. Augustine, we weren’t sure what to expect. But the moment we stepped inside, the experience transported us completely.
The space exudes warmth — elegant décor, soft lighting, and a bar lined with an impressive collection of spirits. It’s sophisticated without being pretentious, intimate yet energetic — the kind of place where you could just as easily enjoy a romantic dinner as a celebratory meal with friends.
Ambiance and Décor
From the first glance, the atmosphere feels intentional. Every detail — from the seating arrangement to the polished finishes — contributes to an upscale, relaxed charm. The bar, gleaming with golden hues and stocked to perfection, anchors the room with character.
Rating: 10/10
★★★★★★★★★
Menu and Drinks
Salento’s full-color menu is a work of art in itself — vibrant, organized, and enticing. Each dish reflects a commitment to flavor and presentation. The variety is impressive, offering everything from traditional Colombian classics to inventive steakhouse specialties. We opted for the Salento Special for Two, a stunning sampler that included carne asada, chicken, ribs, chorizo, and pork rind. It’s the perfect way to experience the range of the kitchen’s craft — smoky, tender, and bursting with seasoning.
The shrimp in garlic sauce elevated the experience — a dish that perfectly balanced the richness of the sauce with the sweetness of the shrimp. Paired with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, it was the kind of harmony that lingers long after the last bite.
Rating: 10/10
★★★★★★★★★
Food Quality
Each element of our meal showed precision and pride. The carne asada was grilled to perfection, tender and flavorful. The chicken, though thinner than we typically prefer, remained juicy. The ribs, however, were the undeniable highlight — beautifully spiced and fall-off-the-bone tender. The chorizo brought the boldness that Colombian cuisine is famous for, while the pork rind provided both crunch and visual flair. The vegetable skewer was grilled perfectly, completing the meal with color and texture.
Rating: 10/10
★★★★★★★★★
Service
Salento’s service was exemplary. From the host’s warm greeting to the moment we left, we felt genuinely cared for. Our server was attentive, knowledgeable, and delivered each course with impeccable timing. The presentation of each dish matched the restaurant’s high standards.
Rating: 10/10
★★★★★★★★★
Value and Pricing
Salento positions itself as an upscale steakhouse — and rightfully so. The pricing aligns with its premium ingredients, large portions, and high-quality experience. The Salento Special for Two could easily feed three, and the shrimp entrée arrived with twelve large, beautifully prepared shrimp — an indulgence well worth it.
Rating: 9/10
★★★★★★★★☆
Overall Experience
We left Salento thoroughly impressed. What began as curiosity turned into admiration for a restaurant that blends elegance with authenticity. It’s proof that great food and genuine hospitality can flourish anywhere — even in the most unassuming of places.
“This is one of the best-kept secrets in the area,” we told each other as we walked out. “The kind of restaurant that reminds you why dining out is such a joy.”
Rating: 10/10
★★★★★★★★★
Total Score: 59/60
★★★★★
Reviewed by: Susan and Peter Martin
