The History Of St. Elmo

Humble Beginnings

St. Elmo Steak House began in 1902, when a gentleman named Joe Stahr opened a humble saloon in downtown Indianapolis, originally naming it Joe Stahr’s Tavern, featuring the St. Elmo Buffet. At first, it was more of a neighborhood saloon, but it quickly became a gathering spot where travelers passing through Union Station and nearby wholesalers could stop in for beer, spirits, and modest food at fair prices.

Over time, the buffet faded away, and Joe decided to simplify the restaurant’s name, adopting what the locals affectionately called it, St. Elmo. Naming a restaurant after the Patron Saint of Sailors may seem an unlikely choice for a landlocked city hundreds of miles from the nearest ocean; however, Joe was a Navy man and an avid fan of sailing. Staying true to his ocean-loving heritage, the earliest St. Elmo menu featured a delicacy of the day: Shrimp Cocktail, selling for just 10 cents.

What began as a neighborhood tavern gradually transformed into the city’s most celebrated steakhouse, laying the foundation for more than a century of legendary dining. And while menus and décor have evolved through the decades, two things have never changed: the original brick building, home to the tiger-oak bar, and the world-famous St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail, still prepared with the same fiery, horseradish-laden sauce.

The Stewards of Tradition

In 1947, Harry Roth took the reins of St. Elmo and soon partnered with his lifelong friend Izzy Rosen. Harry was charming and warm; Izzy, a gregarious man’s man. This quintessential “odd couple” successfully guided the restaurant for nearly four decades. Under their leadership, St. Elmo became a fixture of Indianapolis dining, a place where tradition deepened, reputations were built, and generations of guests made memories around the table.

A Family Affair

In 1986, iconic Indiana restaurateur Steve Huse purchased St. Elmo Steak House from Harry Roth and Izzy Rosen, envisioning a future that would bring his son, Craig Huse, into the family business. Together, they ushered in a new era of growth and refinement.

From the beginning, Steve and Craig worked to balance innovation and elevated standards with the timeless traditions and classic atmosphere that define St. Elmo. Their leadership shaped more than a legendary dining experience, it created a culture built on care and respect.

St. Elmo quickly became recognized as a premier employer in the hospitality industry, known for prioritizing its people. The Huse family has long believed that when you take exceptional care of your stewards, they, in turn, will take exceptional care of your guests.

An Icon Recognized

By the late 20th century, St. Elmo had become synonymous with Indianapolis itself. Our fiery shrimp cocktail earned a national reputation, daring guests with its unforgettable kick. The James Beard Foundation honored St. Elmo as an America’s Classic. Forbes named us one of “10 Great Classic Restaurants Well Worth Visiting.” And OpenTable recognized us among its Top 100 Restaurants in America — one of only two Indiana establishments to earn the distinction.

A Hidden Retreat

Another chapter was added to the story in 2011. Tucked away on the second floor above the iconic steakhouse, 1933 Lounge was created to extend the St. Elmo experience beyond the dining room. With a discreet entrance and speakeasy-inspired atmosphere, the Lounge invites guests to linger longer, savor refined flavors and enjoy classic cocktails in an intimate retreat.

1933 Lounge became so beloved by patrons that it evolved into its own standalone restaurant concept, now with three locations across Indiana in Fishers, Carmel, and at the Indianapolis International Airport, each carrying forward the same timeless hospitality that has defined St. Elmo for generations.

A Legacy That Endures

At St. Elmo, history isn’t preserved behind glass — it’s lived every night, in every meal, in every memory made around the table.

Today, more than 120 years since that first steak was served, St. Elmo Steak House continues to welcome guests from around the globe. We’re proud of the accolades, but what matters most is the loyalty of generations who return again and again. It’s also a place where talented, career hospitality professionals make their home — some for decades — ensuring the warmth of our service is as legendary as the food.

St. Elmo Steak House remains home to the famously spicy shrimp cocktail that has delighted guests for over a century. After years of patrons asking to take the experience home, we began bottling our signature cocktail sauce so fans could enjoy it in their own kitchens and share it with friends. Over time, the product line expanded to include additional signature sauces, seasonings, and ready-to-pour cocktails. Today, St. Elmo products can be found in more than 3,000 stores nationwide — bringing our legendary flavor to homes across the country.