Sizzle, Slice, Indulge: Gaucho night at Asado

T-Mag Sunday 12/October/2025 10:41 AM
By: Times News Service
Sizzle, Slice, Indulge: Gaucho night at Asado

FOR Muscat’s steak aficionados, Thursday nights are no longer ordinary — they’re a celebration of fire, flavour, and flair.

At Asado South American Steakhouse, nestled in the luxurious Sheraton Oman Hotel, Gaucho Thursday has emerged as a culinary ritual, drawing both locals and expatriates with a singular promise: unlimited, premium cuts of steak served with South American panache.

At OMR 22++ (beverages are extra), guests embark on an indulgent journey that marries Rodizio-style service with a vibrant buffet and decadent desserts.

Step inside Asado, and the senses are immediately captivated. Wood-crafted interiors, cowhide wall panels, and warm, ambient lighting evoke South American charm while maintaining contemporary sophistication.

The restaurant’s outdoor terrace overlooking the pool area offers the perfect vantage for Muscat evenings, while the central bar-style station allows diners to watch the chefs in action, preparing ceviches, tacos, and sliders with meticulous artistry.

“To watch the chefs grill and flame the meat is a treat not many restaurants in Oman offer,” says Rejin Thomas, Sheraton Oman’s hotel manager, noting the draw of the visual spectacle as much as the food itself.

The centrepiece of Gaucho Thursday, of course, is the meat feast. Asanka Fernando, Asado’s supervisor, explains the concept.

"The Gaucho night is Argentinian style. Guests can enjoy unlimited beef, lamb, and chicken. From ribeye, tenderloin, and striploin to T-bone and tomahawk, all cuts are served table-side with live carving. Guests simply signal when they want the serving to pause with a coaster placed on the table, and we ensure the experience flows seamlessly from mains to desserts."

Chef Ehab Al Batsh elaborates on the uniqueness of Asado’s offerings. "The concept comes from the Argentinian grill. At Gaucho, we serve more than eight cuts of beef along with lamb chops and shrimp. Argentina is world-renowned for its beef, and we source the best cuts to deliver an authentic South American experience. Every guest finds a steak that suits their taste, and our slow-cooked short ribs and Tomahawk are among the most sought-after dishes."

Before the main meats arrive, diners are invited to explore an impressive buffet of fresh greens, pickled vegetables, cheeses, and cold cuts. A live ceviche counter offers seabass or tuna cured in citrus juices, garnished with quinoa, avocado, and sweet potato — refreshing bites that whet the appetite. Empanadas, provoleta cheese with caramelised onions, roasted peppers, and jalapeños, as well as freshly made sliders and tacos, create a playful prelude to the main attraction.

And then, the Gauchos begin their rounds. Each cut is grilled to perfection and presented with a flourish, with tableside slicing and flambéing adding theatrical excitement.

The Tomahawk steak, a full kilo of prime beef, is a particular showstopper. Grilled with aromatic rosemary sprigs and carved at the table, it delivers a tender, juicy, and flavorful bite every time.

Chef Ehab emphasises as he says, “It’s all about the correct cuts, proper preparation, and the Argentinian style that makes every bite memorable. Meat lovers feel at home here.”

Fernando highlights the restaurant’s diverse clientele.

"We welcome locals, South Asians, Europeans, and East Asians. Guests choose their preferred doneness, whether rare, medium, or well-done, and everything we serve is 100% halal. Our goal is to offer a unique Argentinian-style steak night in Oman, something no other restaurant currently does."

The Gaucho experience isn’t just about quantity; it’s about the quality, variety, and interaction. Slow-cooked short ribs melt in the mouth, while lamb chops, flank steak, and ribeye offer distinct flavors for every palate. Shrimp and chicken options cater to families or those seeking variety beyond red meat, ensuring everyone enjoys the evening.

No feast is complete without desserts that impress both the eyes and the palate. From churros and chocolate gateaux to mango mousse and molten chocolate cakes, each creation is indulgent yet balanced, offering a sweet finale to a robust, flavorful evening. The dessert presentation is as thoughtful as the preparation, with vibrant colours and textures that make the counter a visual delight.

Hotel boss Thomas reflects on the growing popularity of Gaucho Thursday. "Gaucho Thursday is more than a meal — it’s an experience. The combination of high-quality meats, interactive service, and South American flair makes it unique in Muscat’s dining scene. Guests return week after week, and we continue to innovate to meet their expectations."

Beyond the cuisine, Gaucho Thursday is a social celebration. The relaxed, informal ambience encourages conversation, laughter, and shared enjoyment, whether at the outdoor terrace or central bar area. Watching chefs expertly plate and grill, while servers move through the dining room, transforms dinner into theatre — an experience that lingers in memory long after the last bite.

For steak lovers, Asado’s Gaucho Thursday offers a complete package: premium international meats from Argentina, Australia, and Japan; live Rodizio-style carving; a vibrant buffet of starters and sides; and a decadent dessert selection. The experience runs from 7 pm to 11 pm every Thursday, with reservations recommended to secure a coveted spot.

Chef Ehab sums up the experience: "If you are a meat lover, this is the place to be. Every Thursday, we offer an experience that goes beyond food — it’s a celebration of South American cuisine and steak culture."

From the first refreshing bite of ceviche to the last indulgent chocolate soufflé, Gaucho Thursday at Asado is more than a dinner — it’s a South American culinary journey, an immersive celebration of fire, flavour, and indulgence that keeps diners returning week after week.