Carmelo’s Steak House in Rockwell - is it worth the price?

If you're in the mood for an intimate dining experience, perhaps to celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary, Carmelo’s might be the place you're looking for. As a fancier spinoff of the well-known Melo’s Steakhouse, Carmelo’s offers a luxurious setting for those special occasions. But before you make a reservation, here's what you need to know in a Q&A format.

Interior of Carmelo's Steak House featuring the aged steaks and wine selection

Q: How much will I be spending per head on average?

On average, you can expect to spend around ₱3,000 to ₱4,000 per head at Carmelo’s. This includes appetizers, a main course, and perhaps a glass of wine or two. The price can vary depending on your choice of steak or other dishes, as well as your beverage selections. If you keep it lean like sticking to the steak and nothing else, the average per head will just be around ₱2,500.

Q: Is there a dress code?

There isn’t a strict dress code enforced at Carmelo’s, but the ambiance certainly calls for it. While you can dine with a smart casual attire, it feels good to dress up once in a while, and dining at Carmelo’s can be a great opportunity to do so. Think of it as an occasion to bring out that special outfit you’ve been wanting to wear so bad.

Enjoying a glass of Amaretto Sour

Q: Is it worth the price?

The value for money at Carmelo’s is subjective. The experience, ambiance, and quality of food are all top-notch, but if you're purely looking at the cost relative to the taste and portion sizes, some might find it a bit steep. For the price, you'd expect an exceptional experience, and while Carmelo’s does deliver in many aspects, it may not always justify the premium for everyone.

Ribeye Wagyu G5 each plate averages 1.5kg which costs less than ₱10,000, (₱580 per 100g), price as of July 2024

Q: What makes Carmelo’s different than other steakhouses?

What sets Carmelo’s apart is its attention to detail and the upscale experience it provides. From the elegant interiors to the personalized service, Carmelo’s aims to offer a dining experience that feels exclusive and refined. The steak selections are also more curated, often featuring premium cuts that are aged to perfection. The restaurant also emphasizes pairing their dishes with an excellent selection of wines, making it a complete culinary experience rather than just a meal.

Another star of the night was the Lamb Chops, I recommend this!

Q: Aside from steak, what else should I try?

The steaks are undoubtedly the star of the show, and honestly you may just want to stick with that. We tried other dishes but the only one that was able to be up to par was the Lamb Chops and the Baked Oysters. The Vongole and Risotto we had were a bit of a lackluster in comparison, both of which costs ₱1,200 each. 

Other dishes in Carmelo's might pale in comparison with the steaks, so you may skip

Q: Why should I dine here?

You should dine at Carmelo’s if you're looking for a high-end steak experience where the focus is on quality and ambiance. It’s perfect for special occasions or for any night of indulgence. The personalized service, coupled with its elegant modern interior, makes it a memorable place to celebrate milestones.

The Baked Oysters were of great quality as well

Q: Why should I NOT dine here?

If you're on a budget or if value for money is your primary concern, Carmelo’s might not be the best choice. The prices are on the higher end, and while the experience is premium, it might not be enough to justify the cost for everyone. Additionally, if you're looking for a more casual, laid-back dining experience, the formal atmosphere at Carmelo’s might feel “too expensive”. It’s the experience and ambiance that we are paying for in this restaurant, because there are other restaurants offering steaks at more than half the price. 

My sister and brother celebrating their birthday here in Carmelo's Steak House, Rockwell

Q: Any other caveats and things to note?

One thing to keep in mind is that reservations are highly recommended. The restaurant can get busy especially if they are holding private events, and securing a table in advance will save you from disappointment. It has a wide seating capacity, but you’ll never know, so yes, do call in advance.

Carmelo's Steak House is located at the 2nd Floor, The Proscenium Retail Row, The Proscenium Residences, Rockwell Center, Estrella, Makati. You may reserve using this hotline: +639159038005 • +63287331088