July 29, 2024

Carmelo’s in Makati: Chef Cristina’s Ode to the Steak Man of the Philippines

Considered to be the steak man of the Philippines, Carmelo “Melo” Santiago was the one who introduced certified Angus beef (CAB) to the country in 1988. Founding his flagship restaurant, Melo’s Steakhouse, in the same year marked the beginning of a new era in fine dining, where premium steaks became the gold standard. By sourcing the best beef and creating exquisite steak dishes, he had earned widespread recognition and admiration among his fellow restaurateurs and entrepreneurs. And though he may have passed on, Melo’s enduring legacy and spirit are being upheld by his family, especially his daughter Chef Cristina Santiago, the brilliant mind behind Carmelo’s Steakhouse.

IMAGE from Carmelo’s Steakhouse

Before helping with the family business, Cristina first learned the ropes by going to a culinary school in the US. After studying at the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Cristina–now a fully pledged chef–returned to the Philippines in 1997 to help her father manage Melo’s. In 2014, she opened the first iteration of Carmelo’s at Greenbelt 5 out of love and respect for her dear father by elevating the steakhouse’s brand of excellence to new heights. They would serve exquisite offerings such as Tomahawk Bone-in Ribeye and Wagyu T-bone that became instant hits among sophisticated diners in the Metro. Award-winning desserts (courtesy of Sweet Bella Desserts, another venture of hers) made the sweet ending to every dining experience. Though the business was doing great, she decided to close the restaurant following the death of Melo due to post-COVID complications in 2021.

Chef Cristina Santiago / IMAGE from Carmelo’s Steakhouse

Fast forward to 2024, Chef Christina reopened Carmelo’s at the Proscenium, Rockwell Center to continue her beloved father’s legacy. “I wanted to continue his legacy with my own touch and make sure that our guests experience the same quality and warmth that he envisioned,” she shared when asked on her thoughts about the brief hiatus.

The steakhouse stands out not only for the food, but also for the ambiance and service. Her personal touch also ensures that each guest feels important, making dining at the steakhouse a truly magical experience. “We strive to make every visit special and memorable. Our staff [goes above and beyond] to provide personalized service. They even know our regulars by name and preference,” she added.

CAB Ribeye / IMAGE from Carmelo’s Steakhouse

With a strong social media presence, everything at Carmelo’s is designed to be visually appealing, perfect for sharing online. This is particularly evident with the slicing and weighing of their dry-aged ribeye steaks in front of the customers. “Our ribeye presentation is a favorite among diners,” Christina said. “It’s part of the showmanship and the Carmelo’s experience. People love to see their steaks being prepared and served [with flair].”

The ambiance and vibe at Carmelo’s are as rich and sumptuous as the steaks they serve!

IMAGE from Carmelo’s Steakhouse

The dining space is draped in golden chains that shimmer and sway above your head like a cascading waterfall. The golden hues are everywhere and will make guests feel like they’ve entered a posh steakhouse. The plush chairs are velvety and comfy, while the equally elegant tables are set with white linens, sparkling glasses, and fine cutlery glinting under the warm, ambient lighting.

For an intimate dining experience, Lé Salon, a private room for a maximum of 10 diners, makes for the ideal venue for business meetings or special occasions.

Lé Salon / IMAGE from Carmelo’s Steakhouse

While listening to classical music and jazz, guests can admire the grandeur of the bar’s well-stocked shelves. They are stacked with rows upon rows of premium bottles that will surely beckon them to sit down, relax, and enjoy one of their signature cocktails such as the Manila Heat, a tequila-based concoction garnished with fresh basil, a slice of dried lime, and a whole chili pepper. It has notable notes of citrus and pepper, perfect to stimulate the palate as a precursor to a grand meal.

IMAGE from Carmelo’s Steakhouse

Manila Heat / IMAGE from Carmelo’s Steakhouse

Carmelo’s reputation as one of the best steakhouses in the Metro has earned it a loyal following over the years. And while Chef Cristina continues to innovate while staying close to its origins, she ensures that the steakhouse remains a top choice for Manila’s fine dining community. As she has put it, “Carmelo’s is [built] on passion and family tradition that we are proud to continue and share with our guests.”