There’s something deeply satisfying about a perfectly cooked steak. Whether you prefer it rare, well-done, or somewhere in between, steak represents more than just a meal; it’s a timeless culinary experience.
Across the globe, steak restaurants have become destinations for those seeking the irresistible combination of premium meat, expert cooking, and memorable dining atmospheres. Among this elite group, one name stands out not just in Australia but worldwide: Porteño, Sydney’s own masterpiece of wood-fired cooking.
Porteño’s Journey to Global Fame
Recently ranked No.20 on the 2025 World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants list, Porteño has solidified its reputation as one of the best steak destinations on the planet. This recognition didn’t happen overnight. Since its founding in 2010 by Joe Valore, Elvis Abrahanowicz, and Ben Milgate, the restaurant has been revolutionising Australian dining with its bold, Argentinian-inspired approach to cooking over fire.
Originally located on Cleveland Street in Surry Hills, Porteño quickly became a magnet for steak lovers drawn to its powerful flavours and impressive technique. By 2016, the restaurant had relocated to Holt Street, where it continues to elevate the art of wood-fired cooking.
Their secret? A commitment to excellence that begins long before the first sizzle on the grill. Porteño offers one of the widest selections of steak cuts in Australia, all meticulously dry-aged and butchered in-house. This hands-on process allows the team to control every step of the preparation, ensuring each cut meets their exacting standards.
Defining Australian Steak Culture
What makes Porteño truly remarkable is how it shaped a new era of Australian dining. When Porteño opened, it was one of the first restaurants nationwide to cook over fire at such a high level, breaking new ground in how Australians approached steak. This influence extended beyond the dining room, as their dedication to sourcing premium ingredients and mastering the parilla (a traditional Argentinian grill) set a new benchmark for quality.
Porteño’s influence didn’t stop at the plate. Their ability to share the soul of their cooking—with its foundations in fire and community—is evident not just in their restaurant but also through their cookbook, “Recipes for a Good Time.” This passion for storytelling and connection has left a lasting impression on Sydney’s culinary culture.
Their exceptional artistry even caught the eye of legendary food personality Anthony Bourdain, who featured Porteño on his acclaimed show, No Reservations.
A Legacy of Excellence
Today, under Head Chef Matt Fox, Porteño continues to reign as a leader in Australian dining. It has maintained two Good Food Guide hats for an impressive 14 years, a testament to the team’s dedication to quality and innovation. This enduring success is driven not just by great steaks but also by a spirit of true hospitality.
The owners describe it best themselves. “We built Porteño around good produce, good people, and good times, and we’re proud to still be doing what we love,” says co-founder Elvis Abrahanowicz.
From its Argentinian roots to its global acclaim, Porteño is more than a restaurant; it’s a celebration of flavour, craftsmanship, and community.
Visit Porteño
If you’re in Sydney, make Porteño your next destination for an unforgettable steak experience. Find them at Shop 3, 50 Holt Street, Surry Hills. To learn more or book your table, head to www.porteno.com.au.
At Porteño, every bite tells a story. Discover why this restaurant isn’t just one of Australia’s best—but one of the best in the world.