Carmina Mesias, Camille Santiago, Carolina Macasaet. Photo by Zion Lim. Courtesy of Melo’s Steakhouse
For almost four decades, the Santiagos have established Melo’s Steakhouse through the cornerstones of consistency, loyalty, and family
Nestled in the heart of Manila, Melo’s Steakhouse stands as a beacon of tradition and culinary excellence. With a history spanning 36 years, this family-owned restaurant has become synonymous with premium steaks and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Founded by Carmelo Santiago, affectionately known as Papa, Melo’s introduced Manila to US Certified Angus Beef, setting a new standard in the local dining scene.
The story of Melo’s Steakhouse began with their father’s vision and dedication. “Thirty-six years ago, our dad Carmelo Santiago opened the first Melo’s on Pasay Road, introducing US Certified Angus Beef to Manila,” recalls one of Carmelo’s daughters. While he juggled his travels between Manila and San Francisco, his children were completing their studies in the United States. This blend of dedication and perseverance laid the foundation for what the restaurant is today.
As the children graduated and returned home, they gradually took on more significant roles within the restaurant. Today, they continue to uphold the quality and tradition that have become synonymous with their establishment’s name, with the legacy of their father continuing to live on in every dish, every detail, and every smile that greets each customer.
“Melo’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s a family,” the Santiago family emphasizes. The values and traditions instilled by its founder are not just passed down to the family’s children but also to the loyal staff, many of whom have been with the family for decades. Their success over the past few years can be attributed to two fundamental values: consistency and loyalty. “These values bring our customers back to us time and time again,” says one of the sisters. This dedication to quality and tradition has allowed the chain of restaurants to remain a classic in an ever-evolving industry.
Over the years, they have expanded their offerings to include Australian and Japanese Wagyu, catering to a diverse clientele while maintaining its core identity. The introduction of sub-brands like M Eats and My Food Trays reflects the family’s ability to innovate while staying true to their roots.
The younger members of the Santiago family bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table, ensuring that their business remains relevant and vibrant. “Cricket’s kids, Cheska and Franco, both have an eye for up-and-coming trends, helping our restaurant stay current,” one of the sisters proudly mentions. Whether it’s managing social media, creating new dishes, or mingling with guests, the younger generation is well-equipped to carry their legacy forward. The family places great importance on preparing the next generation for bigger responsibilities. As a restaurant, its service is just as integral as its product. Through Cheska and Franco’s approach of creating an environment that is inviting and involving of the diner, this too invites the siblings to continue in creating meals and services that grow with the restaurant such as their M Eats and My Food Trays food brands.
Looking ahead, the Santiago family envisions their dining establishment thriving for generations to come. “In the long term, we hope Melo’s continues to thrive until our children’s children have children,” they share. The younger generation is already bringing new concepts and ideas to the table, promising an exciting future moving forward.
To other family-owned businesses looking to pass the torch to the next generation, the Santiago family offers this advice: “Never forget who you are, where you came from, and why you’re doing what you’re doing. Staying true to your core values will keep you grounded and focused on what truly matters.”
Melo’s Steakhouse is officially located at the following ares:
Forbes Town Center 29th Street, Burgos Circle, Taguig.
58 Sgt. Esguerra Ave. Diliman, Quezon.
Precinct 41, Westgate Center Alabang, Muntinlupa.
