Walking through the doors of St. Elmo Steak House feels like stepping into a piece of Indianapolis history. Since 1902, this legendary restaurant has been serving up some of the finest steaks and seafood in the Midwest.
Located at 127 S Illinois St in downtown Indianapolis, St. Elmo has become more than just a place to eat. It has turned into a destination that keeps diners talking long after they leave.
The combination of classic old-school charm, exceptional service, and unforgettable flavors creates an experience that sticks with you. From the moment you walk in, you know you are somewhere special.
The dark wood paneling, crisp white linens, and walls covered with photographs tell stories of decades past. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary, closing a business deal, or simply treating yourself to an incredible meal, St. Elmo delivers every single time.
This is not just dinner. This is a memory in the making.
The Legendary Shrimp Cocktail That Clears Your Sinuses
Ask anyone who has eaten at St. Elmo Steak House what they remember most, and nine times out of ten, they will mention the shrimp cocktail. This is not your average appetizer.
The jumbo shrimp arrive perfectly chilled and beautifully presented, but the real star is the cocktail sauce.
Loaded with freshly grated horseradish, this sauce packs a punch that hits you straight in the sinuses. The heat is intense but fleeting, lasting about ten seconds before mellowing into a bold, savory flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
First-timers often take a generous scoop and immediately feel the fire rush through their nasal passages.
The experience has become so famous that over 1,100 customer reviews mention it specifically. People love watching friends and family try it for the first time, capturing their surprised reactions on camera.
The shrimp themselves are plump, sweet, and cooked to perfection, providing the perfect contrast to the spicy sauce.
Even if you think you can handle spicy food, this cocktail will test your limits in the best way possible. The flavor is outstanding, and despite the heat, you will find yourself reaching for another shrimp almost immediately.
Many diners say they could eat this appetizer every single day if given the chance.
St. Elmo even sells jars of their famous cocktail sauce so you can take a piece of the experience home with you. Whether you are a heat lover or just curious, this shrimp cocktail is an absolute must-try.
It has earned its place as one of the most iconic dishes in Indianapolis dining history.
Steaks Cooked to Absolute Perfection
St. Elmo Steak House built its reputation on one simple promise: serving the finest steaks in Indiana. Over a century later, that promise still holds true.
Diners rave about the filet mignon, ribeye, and New York strip, each one cooked exactly to order and bursting with flavor.
The filet mignon is so tender it practically melts in your mouth. Seasoned with a subtle sweet steak rub, the meat showcases its natural richness without being overpowered by heavy sauces or complicated preparations.
Many guests call it the best filet they have ever tasted, and some even plan return trips from out of state just to enjoy it again.
The prime ribeye offers a heartier option with beautiful marbling that delivers incredible juiciness in every bite. Cooked over high heat to develop a perfect crust, the ribeye remains tender and flavorful throughout.
The Cowboy Ribeye, a larger cut with the bone still attached, provides an even more dramatic presentation and robust taste.
One thing to note is that St. Elmo tends to cook steaks slightly more on the rare side, so if you prefer medium or well-done, make sure to communicate that clearly to your server.
Complimentary Navy Bean Soup That Steals the Show
Before your meal even begins, St. Elmo surprises you with a complimentary bowl of their famous navy bean soup. This humble starter has developed a devoted following over the years, with many diners claiming they could eat it every single day.
The soup arrives steaming hot, rich, and deeply flavorful.
Made with tender navy beans, smoky pork, and a blend of savory seasonings, this soup feels like a warm hug on a cold day. The texture is perfectly balanced, with some beans left whole for bite while others break down to create a creamy, velvety base.
Each spoonful delivers layers of flavor that keep you reaching for more.
What makes this soup even more special is that it comes as a gift from the house, setting the tone for the generous hospitality you will experience throughout your meal. Guests often find themselves scraping their bowls clean, not wanting to waste a single drop.
The soup has become so beloved that it frequently appears in customer reviews alongside the shrimp cocktail and steaks.
Old-School Atmosphere With Over a Century of History
Stepping into St. Elmo Steak House is like traveling back in time to an era when dining out was a true occasion. The restaurant has occupied the same location since 1902, and the interior reflects that rich history.
Dark wood paneling covers the walls, crisp white tablecloths dress each table, and the lighting creates an intimate, classic ambiance.
Photographs from different eras line the walls, showcasing celebrities, athletes, politicians, and regular folks who have all shared meals within these walls. Taking a few minutes to walk through the restaurant and admire these images adds another layer to your visit.
You can see the names and years of service for longtime employees displayed proudly, showing how St. Elmo values its staff.
The restaurant features nine different dining rooms, each with its own character and charm. Some rooms feel more intimate and cozy, perfect for romantic dinners or quiet business meetings.
Others accommodate larger groups and celebrations, filling with the happy buzz of conversation and laughter.
Service That Makes Every Guest Feel Like a VIP
Great food can only take a restaurant so far. What truly sets St. Elmo apart is the level of service provided by their professional, attentive staff.
From the moment you arrive until you finish your last bite of dessert, you are treated with genuine care and respect. Servers like Kenny M., Doug, Kyle, and others earn specific mentions in customer reviews for their outstanding work.
The staff members are true professionals who know the menu inside and out. They can guide you through wine selections from one of the best-stocked cellars in Indiana, suggest the perfect steak for your taste, and time each course so everything flows smoothly.
They remain attentive without hovering, checking in at just the right moments.
What really stands out is how the team handles special occasions. Celebrating an anniversary?
You might receive a personalized card signed by the staff. The restaurant often comps desserts for special celebrations, adding an extra touch of thoughtfulness to your evening.
These gestures show that St. Elmo sees you as more than just another table to turn.
The service feels confident and steady, the kind that only comes from years of experience and proper training.
Side Dishes and Extras Worth the Splurge
While the steaks rightfully claim the spotlight, the side dishes at St. Elmo deserve their own moment of recognition. The redskin mashed potatoes have earned a reputation as some of the best in the business.
Creamy, buttery, and perfectly seasoned, they complement the rich flavors of the steaks beautifully. One guest even called them show-stealers.
The Potatoes Romanoff offer another delicious option, featuring layers of potatoes baked with cheese and cream until golden and bubbly. The creamed spinach arrives rich and velvety, providing a classic steakhouse side that never disappoints.
Fresh vegetables cooked just right add color and balance to your plate.
For something indulgent, try the crab mac and cheese. When prepared fresh, this dish combines tender pasta with a creamy cheese sauce studded with sweet chunks of crab meat.
The onion rings come out hot and crispy, with a light batter that lets the sweet onion flavor shine through.
St. Elmo also offers excellent seafood options beyond the famous shrimp cocktail. The chargrilled oysters arrive topped with butter and Parmesan, creating a rich and savory bite.
The lobster bisque delivers smooth, creamy texture with generous pieces of lobster meat adding substance and flavor. Crab-stuffed shrimp provides another luxurious choice for seafood lovers.
The loaded baked potato receives mixed reviews, with some finding it perfectly satisfying while others consider it a bit plain compared to the excellence of everything else. Your best bet is to ask your server for their personal recommendations based on what you are ordering for your main course.
The portions are generous, so consider sharing sides if you are dining with others.
Desserts and Drinks That Complete the Experience
Just when you think you cannot eat another bite, the dessert menu arrives and tempts you all over again. The bourbon butter cake stands out as a customer favorite, offering rich, moist cake with the warm notes of bourbon running through every forkful.
Topped with a buttery glaze and often served with ice cream or whipped cream, this dessert provides the perfect sweet ending to a savory meal.
The double chocolate mousse pie delivers intense chocolate flavor in a smooth, creamy texture that melts on your tongue. Light yet satisfying, this dessert appeals to serious chocolate lovers who want something elegant rather than heavy.
Each slice arrives beautifully plated, making it almost too pretty to eat.
Before or after dinner, consider visiting the upstairs speakeasy for a cocktail experience that matches the quality of the food. The signature St. Elmo Coke, made with cherry vanilla whiskey and drunken cherries, offers a unique twist on a classic drink.
The bartenders craft classic cocktails with perfect balance, no unnecessary twists or theatrics, just steady, competent mixology.
The wine list is extensive and impressive, featuring one of the best-stocked cellars in the state of Indiana. Whether you prefer a bold red to complement your steak or a crisp white to pair with seafood, the selection covers every taste and budget.
The staff can guide you through options if the menu feels overwhelming.
Even a simple gin and tonic arrives strong and perfectly balanced, showing that St. Elmo takes every detail seriously. These finishing touches transform a great meal into a complete dining experience that you will remember for years to come.
The restaurant understands that exceptional food deserves equally exceptional drinks and desserts to round out the evening.
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