De Carne Somos Grill in Columbia: Argentine Grilled Meat and Wine

What De Carne Somos Grill serves and where to find it

De Carne Somos Grill is an Argentine steakhouse in Columbia that specializes in grilled meats cooked over open flame, paired with South American wines. The restaurant focuses on high-quality beef cuts prepared in the traditional asado style—slow-grilled over charcoal to develop a crust while keeping the interior tender. You'll find it in downtown Columbia, where it draws both locals and visitors looking for a different take on American steakhouse dining.

The menu centers on beef, with offerings that typically include ribeye, New York strip, and cuts specific to Argentine butchery. Beyond beef, the kitchen also grills chicken, lamb, and seafood. Side dishes lean toward simple preparations—grilled vegetables, chimichurri sauce, and potatoes—letting the quality of the meat and the grilling technique be the focus.

Key Takeaways

• De Carne Somos Grill specializes in Argentine-style grilled meats cooked over charcoal, not the typical American steakhouse preparation.
• The wine list emphasizes South American selections, particularly Argentine Malbecs and other wines that pair with grilled beef.
• The restaurant is located in downtown Columbia and operates as a full-service dining venue with table service.
• Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service and weekends, as the restaurant draws a steady crowd.

The grilling method and meat quality

Argentine asado grilling differs from American steakhouse cooking in both technique and philosophy. Rather than using a closed broiler or high-heat sear followed by an oven finish, asado relies on direct heat from charcoal and time. The meat cooks slowly, allowing fat to render gradually and smoke to penetrate the surface. This method produces a distinct crust and a different flavor profile than you'll find at most American steakhouses.

De Carne Somos sources beef cuts chosen for this style of cooking. Argentine butchery emphasizes different sections of the animal than American butchery, so you may see cuts on the menu that don't appear elsewhere in Columbia. The restaurant's commitment to this specific approach means the quality of the raw meat and the skill of the grill operator both matter significantly to what lands on your plate.

Wine selection and pairings

The wine program at De Carne Somos reflects the restaurant's Argentine roots. You'll find a curated list of wines from Argentina, Chile, and other South American regions, with an emphasis on reds that complement grilled meat. Argentine Malbec appears prominently—it's the country's signature red varietal and pairs naturally with beef cooked over charcoal.

The staff can guide you through the list based on which cut you've ordered and your preferences. Wine prices vary, but the selection includes options at different price points rather than focusing only on high-end bottles. If you're unfamiliar with South American wines, this is a good place to explore them alongside food designed to showcase them.

Dining experience and atmosphere

De Carne Somos operates as a full-service restaurant with table service, not a casual counter-order venue. The atmosphere reflects the Argentine steakhouse tradition—more formal than a neighborhood grill but not black-tie formal. The dining room typically features wood tones, warm lighting, and an open kitchen or visible grill area so you can watch the cooking process.

Service moves at a deliberate pace, which is intentional in this style of restaurant. Courses arrive separately rather than all at once, and the staff paces the meal to allow time between courses. This is different from the faster turnover of many American steakhouses, so plan your evening accordingly if you have time constraints.

How to plan your visit

De Carne Somos is located in downtown Columbia. The restaurant accepts reservations and recommends making them, particularly for dinner service and weekends. You can typically reach them by phone to book a table and ask about any specials or seasonal offerings.

Dress code is business casual to smart casual—not formal, but not athletic wear. The restaurant accepts major credit cards. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, calling ahead allows the kitchen to prepare accordingly. Parking in downtown Columbia is available on the street and in nearby lots; the restaurant can provide specific guidance when you make your reservation.

What to expect on the menu

The menu changes seasonally and based on what's available from the restaurant's suppliers, so specific dishes vary throughout the year. Typically, you'll see beef cuts listed by weight and price, with options ranging from smaller portions to large cuts meant for sharing. Appetizers often include grilled vegetables, empanadas, or other Argentine-style starters. Desserts lean toward traditional options like flan or chocolate preparations.

Chimichurri—the Argentine herb sauce made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and oil—appears as a standard accompaniment to grilled meats. Some restaurants offer it as a table condiment; ask your server about the house version. Sides are typically ordered separately and include grilled vegetables, potatoes, or salads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are not required but are strongly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Calling ahead ensures you have a table and allows the kitchen to prepare for your party size. Walk-ins may be accommodated depending on availability.

What's the difference between De Carne Somos and a typical American steakhouse?

The main difference is the grilling method and the cuts of meat used. Argentine asado cooking uses charcoal and time rather than high-heat broilers, producing a different flavor and texture. The wine list and side dishes also reflect Argentine tradition rather than American steakhouse convention.

Are there non-beef options?

Yes. The menu typically includes grilled chicken, lamb, and seafood prepared in the same asado style as the beef. Vegetable sides and appetizers are also available, though the restaurant's focus is clearly on grilled meat.

What wine should I order if I'm not familiar with Argentine wines?

Start with an Argentine Malbec—it's the country's signature red and pairs naturally with grilled beef. The staff can recommend specific bottles at different price points. If you prefer white wine, Argentine Torrontés is a good alternative, though red pairs better with the restaurant's focus on grilled meat.

How long should I plan to spend at dinner?

Plan for two to two and a half hours. The pacing is deliberate, with courses arriving separately. This is intentional and part of the dining experience, not a sign of slow service.