Salento Steakhouse is a hidden gem in Jacksonville, offering an authentic Colombian dining experience with a focus on premium steaks and traditional dishes. The restaurant features an elegant, welcoming ambiance with soft lighting and a well-appointed bar, perfect for date nights or family gatherings. Known for its fresh ingredients, homemade chimichurri, and unique Colombian beer selection, Salento Steakhouse delivers outstanding flavors and generous portions that transport guests to Colombia. The attentive service and vibrant menu make it a standout destination for those seeking a memorable culinary journey.
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Location
11018 Old St Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32257, USA
This place is a hidden gem in terms of food!! It's located in a strip mall, but if it was a standalone building and they upgraded the furniture, decorations, and ambiance . . . This place would probably make a gizzilion more tons of money!
I ordered the cowboy steak and it is the BEST steak I have EVER tasted. I'm not a big steak person, but it was father's day and I splurged. Being somewhat of a foodie, I ordered the steak cooked medium and I tell you it was seasoned and cooked to perfection! The sides were awesome as well! Each dish had a unique flavored item in it which made it even better.
While the service was subpar, you have to keep in mind where you're dining and the culture, meaning it's the usual. Despite that, I have told EVERYONE about this place and I recommend it whole-heartedly!
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Lsavasian M
via Google
· 9 months ago
Our friend from Jacksonville introduced us to Salento Colombian Steakhouse, and I’m so glad they did. The food was outstanding, the service was friendly, and the atmosphere felt very welcoming and family-oriented.
The fresh juices were my favorite—so refreshing and instantly reminded me of my travels to Colombia and Ecuador. I also loved their homemade chimichurri sauce and ended up using it on everything, from the grilled steak to the tostones.
If you’re looking for authentic Colombian food with great flavors and a warm vibe, I highly recommend Salento Colombian Steakhouse.
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Jennifer Davis
via Google
· 10 months ago
Absolutely amazing!! Food, service, atmosphere. Salento’s has become one of our favs. Food is fresh and delicious. If you haven’t tried it, you’re missing out!!
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Peter "webdoc" Martin
via Google
· 11 months ago
Salento Steakhouse — A Hidden Gem of Colombian Warmth and Flavor
By Peter & Susan Martin, The Culinary Duo
“When a restaurant surprises you from the moment you step inside, you know you’ve stumbled upon something special.”
Tucked quietly into an unassuming strip mall in St. Augustine, Salento Steakhouse is one of those rare finds that redefines expectations. From the outside, it’s easy to underestimate; but the moment we walked through the door, we were struck by the elegant décor, soft lighting, and a bar that would make any mixologist proud.
The ambiance is upscale yet welcoming, with beautifully appointed seating and thoughtful details that transport guests far from its modest exterior. The décor carries the warm sophistication you’d expect from a fine Colombian steakhouse, where wood, texture, and light come together to create an atmosphere made for conversation.
When it came time to explore the menu, we were immediately impressed. Presented in full color, with vivid photography and clean design, it’s one of the most creative menus we’ve encountered. The wide range of offerings speaks to a culinary team that knows how to balance authenticity with artistry.
We chose the Salento Special for Two. A generous spread that showcased the kitchen’s talents. The platter arrived brimming with carne asada, chicken, ribs, chorizo, and pork rind. A feast designed for sharing. Each component was distinct yet harmonious. The carne asada was seasoned to perfection, tender and deeply flavorful. The chicken, while thinner than expected, was juicy and well-prepared. The ribs, with their subtle dry rub, became the star of the show; smoky, tender, and effortlessly falling off the bone. The chorizo sausage brought a burst of spice and richness, while the crispy pork rind added both visual flair and satisfying crunch.
To complement the spread, we ordered shrimp in garlic sauce. Plump, buttery, and infused with bold flavor. The vegetable skewer, cooked just right, added balance and color to an already impressive table.
The service matched the quality of the cuisine. From the warm greeting at the door to the attentive pacing of each course, every touch reflected care and pride. Our waiter was both personable and professional, anticipating our needs with ease.
As for value, Salento confidently earns its place in the upscale dining category. Prices reflect the quality, yet portions are more than generous. The Salento Special for Two was enough to satisfy more than a couple, and when paired with the shrimp entrée, it felt like a full culinary journey across Colombia.
Our overall experience was nothing short of delightful. Salento proves that great dining isn’t about location or hype; it’s about passion, precision, and hospitality. For those in search of an unforgettable date-night destination or a vibrant social dinner, this is it.
“This is one of the best-kept secrets in the area,” we agreed as we finished our meal. “The kind of place you tell your friends about but almost want to keep for yourself.”
The Culinary Duo Rating: ★★★★★
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David
via Google
· 12 months ago
Fantastic! Steak was sizzling, tender and delicious. Empanadas were flavorful with a nice crispy exterior. Rice and beans were perfect. Salad was the only thing that was a bit basic. Ranch dressing however made up for it. Sangria was fresh made, light, and fruity. Unique Colombian beer selection. Looking forward to coming back.
