As someone who comes from a state where steak isn’t just a meal it’s a point of pride I walked into Noble Argentinian Steakhouse in Charlottesville with a HIGH EXPECTATIONS. Scene: the wood fire casting a smoky aroma that hinted at the kind of bold, flame-kissed flavors you’d expect, and an antique ranch steakhouse feel. The classic leather on the chairs and menu give you a feel of great things to come.
We started with the cheese and onion empanadas, and frankly, that stole the show. Served piping hot and fresh, they were everything you want in a starter crispy on the outside, gooey and savory inside. If that is just from the appetizers, then we couldn’t wait for the main course.
Side Bar: If we return, it’ll be for these. My only note? A touch more caramelization on the onions would push them from excellent to unforgettable.
WELCOME TO THE MAIN EVENT! The steak. I ordered the Skirt steak, and it was cooked to a perfect medium rare-to-medium, the temperature and texture were spot-on. But the flavor? Surprisingly muted. It lacked the seasoning and depth that should be the hallmark of any great steakhouse. We had to add salt and pepper to it. This small antidotal will let you know how NEW this place is and still have some kinks to workout. When we asked for the salt and pepper, the salt grinder was missing its only ingredient (SALT). HA!
We addressed our concerns with our server about the sides and were pointed toward the “creamy cauliflower mash”. What arrived, however, was anything but creamy. It came out cold, lacked flavor, and was nearly indistinguishable from the bed of cauliflower my wife had beneath her Cauliflower entrée. The server did nothing to offer to mitigate the issue we addressed. In effect, my wife had a cauliflower on top of cauliflower dish. We both agreed the dish was far too bland to justify its place on the menu.
The atmosphere was solid. Rustic, warm, and inviting, with attentive staff and a setting that feels authentic. AGAIN, a new place, has things to work out and work on. But for a place that promises steakhouse excellence, the steak and the sides need to rise to the occasion. We will consider going back. Possibly for the empanadas and to sit at the bar and see if the kitchen finds its stride.
Correcting EDITs: 15 Sept 2025: Noble, Thank you for pointing that out. I should have clarified my original comment to provide more context and acknowledge how my personal preferences might have influenced my opinion.
To those who read my previous review of Noble: I’d like to address one point in particular. I meant to mention this but didn’t lay it out clearly. Noble Argentinian Steakhouse prepares its steaks in the most traditional Argentine way, grilled over charcoal and seasoned simply, allowing the natural flavor of the meat to shine. This approach can differ from what some diners, myself included, might be accustomed to.
So just a heads-up: what you order will be prepared in line with Argentine tradition, which emphasizes purity and restraint over heavy seasoning. If you're looking for a richer flavor profile, I’d recommend choosing a cut with more fat or marbling it tends to complement the minimalist style beautifully.
Thanks again for the...
Read moreThe place smelled great! Ambiance was perfect for an evening out- food was ok at best but incredibly expensive for just ok food. The apps were decent - empanadas and proveleta. Not very memorable though and more bread could have been given with the Provoleta. That was the best thing I had.
Main course was pretty lackluster. I was very pumped about having another steakhouse in town just cause I love steak and I had been looking forward to trying this place out ! I got the ribeye which was the highest priced cut(I like all cuts) and I have no problem paying a higher price for a quality steak but This had hardly any taste. I realize this is somewhat the idea with cooking traditionally Argentinian with minimal Seasoning but that would be better if I was eating an amazing steak. This ribeye was like anything I could buy at the grocery store. The photos online show large beautiful steaks with grill marks - my steak was gray all over and looked like it had been baked or cooked in foil. It was also very unevenly cooked (ordered medium as I normally do for a ribeye) some areas were medium rare, some medium and some were easily medium well.- this is not a huge deal for me- I can eat a steak from rare to well done but you would think at this price - the steak would be cooked perfectly. The steak comes with no side so I ordered rustic potatoes which were just basic potato wedges and we each got about 5 for another 11.00 each. Again, I don't mind paying for the sides but these were Pretty weak and were about two steps up from potato wedges you would get anywhere. The meal was just ok overall and pretty pricey for something not really amazing. I understand they are new and maybe it will improve but I was...
Read moreNoble Steakhouse – The Best Steak and Cocktails in Charlottesville
Noble Steakhouse truly raises the bar for dining in Charlottesville. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere feels both refined and inviting — a perfect balance of elegance and warmth.
The steaks are hands down the best in town — perfectly cooked, deeply flavorful, and clearly sourced with care. Every cut I’ve tried has been executed flawlessly, from the rich, buttery ribeye to the tender filet that melts in your mouth.
The cocktail program is just as impressive. Each drink is balanced and creative, made with top-quality spirits and thoughtful presentation. Whether you want a classic martini or something modern and seasonal, the bartenders here deliver every time.
What truly sets Noble apart, though, is the service. The staff is attentive without being intrusive — professional, personable, and genuinely proud of what they do. Every visit feels like a special occasion.
Charlottesville has no shortage of great restaurants, but if you’re looking for the best steak, impeccable cocktails, and first-class service, Noble Steakhouse is the...
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