St Elmo Steak House
St Elmo Steak House Overview
Industry
About St Elmo Steak House
St. Elmo Steak House, established in 1902, is a historic landmark located in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. Renowned for its exceptional steaks and seafood, it stands as the oldest steakhouse in the city, offering a dining experience steeped in tradition and culinary excellence.
Signature Dishes and Offerings
The restaurant's menu is highlighted by its world-famous shrimp cocktail, featuring four jumbo shrimp accompanied by a dollop of its signature spicy cocktail sauce.
Each year, St. Elmo serves over 100,000 portions of this iconic appetizer, utilizing four tons of horseradish, 48,600 pounds of shrimp, and 3,800 gallons of sauce. In 2012, the restaurant began bottling and selling its signature sauce through regional grocers.
Entrées include a variety of steaks, locally sourced Amish chicken, king crab mac 'n' cheese, and wedge salad. Sides include green beans and three varieties of potatoes – fries, baked, or redskin-mashed.
The basement wine cellar boasts 20,000 bottles, including a rare 1902 Château Lafite Rothschild. The Elmo Cola, a signature cocktail made with Maker's Mark bourbon infused with Luxardo cherries and Madagascar vanilla beans, is a popular beverage choice.
Atmosphere and Location
Situated at 127 S. Illinois St., St. Elmo Steak House occupies the historic Braden's Block building, completed in 1875. The establishment has expanded over the years, incorporating neighboring buildings to accommodate its growth while preserving the unique historic façades.
The atmosphere is lively, with a dress code ranging from elegant to business casual. The restaurant welcomes jeans, tennis shoes, and shorts.
Additional Offerings
For those unable to dine in person, St. Elmo offers a range of products for purchase including world-famous sauces, seasonings, and shrimp cocktail shipped directly to homes.
St. Elmo steaks are also available for nationwide shipping through a partnership with Goldbelly. The restaurant provides ready-to-pour cocktails crafted and approved by career bartenders, which have earned medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Events and Community Engagement
St. Elmo hosts annual events such as the Beefsteak, an afternoon gathering during the first week of March Madness. This event features all-you-can-eat St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail, sliced beef tenderloin, French fries, and a variety of beverages.
The event is separated into men's and women's sessions and has grown significantly since its inception in 2008.
Reservations and Hours
Reservations can be made as far as one year in advance. Restaurant hours are:
- Monday to Thursday: 4:00pm – 10:00pm
- Friday: 4:00pm – 11:00pm
- Saturday: 3:00pm – 11:00pm
- Sunday: 4:00pm – 9:00pm
Happy hour is available Sunday to Thursday from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. The 1933 Lounge, an extension of St. Elmo, offers additional dining options with similar hours.
Location
- Indianapolis, IN, USA
St. Elmo Steak House continues to be a cherished institution in Indianapolis, offering a blend of historic charm, exceptional cuisine, and a commitment to quality that has delighted patrons for over a century.