Santa Elena: the Argentinian grill on rue Sainte-Hélène
Charcoal grilled Argentinian cuts, empanadas and Malbec on rue Sainte-Hélène: 4.7 on Google, a small room, and the reference address for meat eaters.
The verdict
At 11 rue Sainte-Hélène, Santa Elena imports the tradition of the Argentinian parrilla, the charcoal grill: selected cuts of meat cooked over embers, served in a warm room that smells of Buenos Aires. For meat eaters after something other than the Alsatian repertoire, it is the reference address in the centre.
What to eat
Empanadas to start, then the cuts from the grill: bife de chorizo, entraña and their chimichurri, with Argentinian wines, Malbec first among them. The portions are cut Argentinian style, so come hungry.
Visiting tip
Book for the evening, the room is small and the address is well known to enthusiasts. Le Café des Sports is on the same street, and an aperitif there before the meat follows naturally.
Frequently asked questions
What is a parrilla?
Do you need to book Santa Elena?
Camille Roth
Born in Schiltigheim, Camille spent ten years working in Strasbourg kitchens before swapping the apron for a notebook. She writes about winstubs, the city's newer tables and Alsatian produce. Her rule: never recommend an address she would not send her own parents to.
