Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Jaleo Las Vegas and Jose Andres
Jaleo Las Vegas is the home of the most exclusive José Andrés restaurant in Las Vegas, é by José Andrés. Offering a clever and creative tasting menu of more than a dozen Spanish avant-garde dishes, this intimate space with 8 seats along a chef’s bar sets guests on a culinary journey. Led by José Andrés culinary vision and presented in an inspiring and whimsical style, é is a secluded setting where the best products of Spain shine. A unique experience enjoyed by few but envied by many.
jaleo.com
jaleo.com/las-vegas
Culinary mastermind José Andrés & his ThinkFoodGroup brings the authentic flavor of Spanish tapas and paellas to Las Vegas with the award-winning Jaleo restaurant re-imagined to include the excitement & spectacle of Las Vegas. Housed within The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas with sister restaurant China Poblano, come see what this new Jaleo has in store!
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Holsteins Las Vegas
Holsteins is an exciting new burger concept from Las Vegas restaurateurs Billy Richardson andChef Anthony Meidenbauer of Block 16 Hospitality. This concept was tailor-made for The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas with an emphasis on fresh, natural and organic ingredients. Undoubtedly, Holsteins will bring better burgers to Las Vegas and a funky, homegrown attitude to The Strip. The menu will feature specialty burgers, house-made sausage, riffs on traditional American snacks and appetizers, as well as a wide variety of shakes and sides. All items – including toppings, buns and condiments – will be custom crafted in-house, creating Las Vegas Strip burgers unlike any other.
Monday, May 27, 2013
Estiatorio Milos
Estiatorio Milos
Touted as one of North America’s finest Greek restaurants, Estiatorio Milos by restaurateur Costas Spiliadis features fine Mediterranean cuisine at its best and has a longstanding reputation for serving the freshest, most pristine seafood imported daily in New York City and Montreal. Featuring a one-of-a-kind terrace dining experience, guests can enjoy authentic tastes of Greece while overlooking the gorgeous Las Vegas skyline. This unique Greek restaurant spares no effort in finding the freshest, most delicious fish from around the world, and preparing them in the subtlest, most flavorful ways. The terrace at Estiatorio Milos is unlike any restaurant experience on The Strip. The stylish ambience of this glass enclosed space is complemented by elegant lanterns and features a unique misting system with individual and private dining options. With seating up to 75, it’s perfect for small private celebrations and rehearsal dinners, and can enhance any dining experience with breathtaking views of Las Vegas.
Sunday, May 26, 2013
D.O.C.G. Las Vegas
D.O.C.G. Las Vegas
Chef Scott Conant is the man behind The Cosmopolitan's new wine & espresso bar D.O.C.G. Enoteca, as well as the modern Italian restaurant, Scarpetta. Here he sat down with us to discuss his food indulgences, thoughts on social media and more.
The restaurant collection at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas offers an innovative neighborhood vibe featuring chef-inspired culinary experiences from around the world.
scottconant.com/restaurants/docg
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Zine Noodles Dim Sum
Zine Noodles Dim Sum
The city's most authentic Asian noodle dishes and remarkable dim sum resides on the Casino level of The Palazzo. From acclaimed chef Simon To, recipient of the prestigious blue ribbon by the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts and the genius behind the exclusive Paiza Club, Zine melds traditional dishes with the exotic, simple with the extravagant in a comfortable, contemporary ambience.
Drawing from Cantonese, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, Szechuan and other Asian cooking styles, Chef Simon To has created a menu that’s equally tempting to both the casual and adventurous diner. From the Rare Filet Mignon Noodle Soup and Abalone and Chicken Congee to the Singapore-Style Pan-Fried Crab with Chili and Steamed Lobster in Garlic Sauce, every dish is a delectable transport to the most acclaimed kitchens of Asia.
"TOP 10" CHINESE RESTAURANT IN THE U.S.
CHINESE RESTAURANT NEWS
Noodles are really the best bet in this luxe and lovely pan-Asian restaurant, named one of the country's top 10 Chinese restaurants by Chinese Restaurant News. The Singapore Style Curry Rice Vermicelli ($16.80) is a fried noodle dish piled high and stuffed with shrimp, pork, eggs, red and green peppers, and green onions. Add a little chili sauce for some fire and put it out with the Thai iced tea ($5.50). Skip the spring rolls ($7.25) and try the pork and shrimp dumplings instead ($6.95). (MA) Inside the Palazzo, 3325 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 607-2220
Zine Noodles Dim Sum
http://www.palazzo.com/Las-Vegas-Restaurants/Casual-Dining/Zine-Noodles-Dim-Sum/
Recipe
http://www.palazzo.com/uploadedFiles/Common/Dining/Casual_Dining/ZINE_Noodle_Recipe.pdf
'Wichcraft
'Wichcraft
One of our best sandwich shops shouldn't be on the Strip, but it is, an old-school lunch with modern flavor as conceptualized by the great Tom Colicchio. Try rare skirt steak with fried eggs and oyster mushrooms on a roll. If you're real hungry, you want a thick slab of meatloaf with cheddar, bacon and tomato relish on a roll. This food is too good to be on a roll, but lucky for us, it is. (BR) MGM Grand, 3799 Las Vegas Blvd. South, 891-7777
One of our best sandwich shops shouldn't be on the Strip, but it is, an old-school lunch with modern flavor as conceptualized by the great Tom Colicchio. Try rare skirt steak with fried eggs and oyster mushrooms on a roll. If you're real hungry, you want a thick slab of meatloaf with cheddar, bacon and tomato relish on a roll. This food is too good to be on a roll, but lucky for us, it is. (BR) MGM Grand, 3799 Las Vegas Blvd. South, 891-7777
Tender Steak & Seafood
Tender Steak & Seafood
Featuring six different types of beef and fresh seafood flown in daily from Hawaii, California, New York and Alaska, TENDER is one of Vegas' top rated steakhouses. TENDER also features an intimate dining room and an extensive wine list which has won the restaurant the 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 "Wine Spectator Award of Excellence."
Menu
http://www.luxor.com/files/dining_steakhouse_menu.pdf
Dessert Menu
http://www.luxor.com/files/dining_steakhouse_dessert_menu.pdf
Sundays through Thursdays, Tender hosts two "power hours" from 5-7 p.m. when the bar offers eight different items priced between $5 and $10. Enjoy micro-brew-fried onion rings with homemade ketchup and mustard aioli, "Kobe" beef foie gras meatloaf sliders with caramelized truffle onions and blue cheese, or shrimp cocktail with basil-pesto cocktail sauce and mango salsa. Hell, you can have all four of them for $30, and wash them down with one of nine specialty martinis for just $6 more. (AM) Inside The Luxor, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 262-4778
Website
http://www.luxor.com/restaurants/tender.aspx
The Steakhouse at Circus Circus
The Steakhouse at Circus Circus
When you're looking for a classic old Vegas steakhouse, nothing compares to Circus Circus. Even the prices seem to be trapped in time, especially during happy hour, which runs from 3-5 p.m. daily. Nine different items come in at less than $10. But the real bargain is the prime rib, which diners cook themselves on a hot stone. It's delivered au jus and accompanied by toasted bread. Another $5 surprise: the trio of chicken lettuce wraps with two sauces. (AM) Inside Circus Circus, 2880 Las Vegas Blvd S., 794-3767
Menu
http://www.circuscircus.com/images/PDF/SteakhouseMenu.pdf
Website
http://www.circuscircus.com/dining/the_steakhouse.aspx
Spago
Spago
Acknowledged as the spark that ignited the Las Vegas culinary phenomenon, Spago is the preeminent trendsetter in cuisine, service and style -- synonymous with fine food and celebrity clientele. Executive Chef Eric Klein’s menu features seasonal American cuisine with influences from around the world and trademark Wolfgang Puck touches. The menu is enhanced by an uncompromising international wine list and specialty cocktails from Spago’s bar, a prime venue for celebrity spotting.
Spago is located in The Forum Shops at Caesars just steps away from the casino and Colosseum Theatre. The restaurant’s modern and warm interior design boasts collection of striking, contemporary art complementing Chef Klein's artistic flair. In a city known for its star power, Spago consistently dazzles, remaining one of the most popular dining spots in Las Vegas. Reservations are strongly recommended.
In addition to Spago's main dining room, the restaurant also features a casual, front cafe with a lighter menu of Puck's signature wood-oven pizzas, appetizers, pastas and a selection of entrees. The patio-style cafe extends out into The Forum Shops, creating an ideal vantage point for people-watching. Walk-ins are welcome as reservations are not accepted for the cafe area.
Wolfgang Puck's original Las Vegas restaurant is arguably the place that started the Strip dining revolution. While it's routinely packed with celebrities for dinner, it's also the power lunch spot for Las Vegas' movers and shakers. Yet surprisingly, 75 percent of the lunch entrees are priced at $25 or less. They include free-range chicken breast, pancetta-wrapped meatloaf, and Puck's signature smoked salmon pizza (adding caviar, of course will push it past that price point). (AM) Inside The Forum Shops, 3500 Las Vegas Blvd S., 369-6300
Dinner Menu
Dessert Menu
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Society Café
Society Café
Taking the casino café to a new level, Society is one of the best places in town for breakfast: the food is great and the décor is stunning. Highlights include pumpkin and buckwheat pancakes with pumpkin butter and candied pecans, and Frosted Flake French toast with caramelized bananas and chocolate cream – both $15. If you want to avoid the sweet, go with the trio of mini-quiches. You'll get ham and gruyere, salmon and chive, and asparagus and goat cheese, all for $14. (AM) Inside Encore, 3131 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 770-3463
Taking the casino café to a new level, Society is one of the best places in town for breakfast: the food is great and the décor is stunning. Highlights include pumpkin and buckwheat pancakes with pumpkin butter and candied pecans, and Frosted Flake French toast with caramelized bananas and chocolate cream – both $15. If you want to avoid the sweet, go with the trio of mini-quiches. You'll get ham and gruyere, salmon and chive, and asparagus and goat cheese, all for $14. (AM) Inside Encore, 3131 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 770-3463
Sea Blue
Sea Blue
Sunday through Friday, Michael Mina's MGM Grand seafood restaurant hosts a daily happy hour from 5:30-7 p.m. Oysters and shrimp are priced at $1 apiece, and Stella Artois drafts are $4. If you want something a little more substantial, the restaurant's signature salt-and-pepper calamari are available at half price, just $5. And you can purchase a chremoula chicken skewer for $3. (AM) Inside The MGM Grand, 3799 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 891-1111
Sunday through Friday, Michael Mina's MGM Grand seafood restaurant hosts a daily happy hour from 5:30-7 p.m. Oysters and shrimp are priced at $1 apiece, and Stella Artois drafts are $4. If you want something a little more substantial, the restaurant's signature salt-and-pepper calamari are available at half price, just $5. And you can purchase a chremoula chicken skewer for $3. (AM) Inside The MGM Grand, 3799 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 891-1111
Restaurant Guy Savoy
Restaurant Guy Savoy
Restaurant Guy Savoy, a meal is a celebration of life.
Each Guy Savoy creation is subject to the scrutiny of the eye and the senses of smell, taste and touch.
Seasonal ingredients are combined to make their flavors come together in perfect harmony, or to make their differences play against one another.
The wait staff is attentive and approachable, exhibiting flawless yet discreet service, creating a home-away-from home environment for each guest.
Designed to emulate the menu of the Paris restaurant, the Restaurant Guy Savoy Caesars Palace menu includes many classic Guy Savoy dishes including Soupe d’artichaut à la truffe noire, brioche feuillellée aux champignons et truffes, Artichoke and Black Truffle Soup garnished with toasted mushroom brioche and truffle butter; for dessert there is the Fondant au Chocolat or Terrine de Pamplemousse.
The ultimate destination for fine dining in Las Vegas, Restaurant Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace Las Vegas has won the Forbes Travel Five Star Award, AAA Five Diamond award, two Michelin stars, the Wine Spectator Grand Award, inclusion on the Gayot.com Top 40 Restaurants in America list, the Condé Nast Traveler Hot 100 list and Best New Restaurant lists for Esquire and Travel + Leisure.
This Michelin two-star temple to gourmet dining is one of the town's most expensive restaurants. But you can get an affordable sample of French master Guy Savoy's cuisine from the "Bubbles and Bites" menu in the Bubbles champagne lounge, which offers "small bite" portions of any two of 10 different dishes for $25. Options include signature items such as oysters in ice gelee, crispy veal sweetbreads with potato and black truffle chips, and the restaurant's famed artichoke and truffle soup. (AM) Inside Caesars Palace, 3570 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 731-7110
Menu
Zagat Review
The prestige menu is the ehole point of being there... A wine list so extensive its intimidating (even to connoisseurs), but all is forgiven (even though Caesar's horrible surroundings create a dismal balcony view) once the incredible plates arrive. So many courses with such a dazzling display of creative breadth... there are are astonishing moments of brilliance. The less educated palate may not get it (nor care to) but for the foodie, this is the pinnacle in Vegas.
Rao's
Rao's
The Las Vegas incarnation of New York's legendary Harlem restaurant offers several things the original doesn't. For one thing, it's possible for normal humans to get a reservation. For another, it serves lunch. And the so-called "Lunch in the Park" menu is the only time they offer their delicious thin-crust pizzas. Chef Carla Pellegrino offers five different versions that are among the best pizzas in the city, all priced between $7 and $17. (AM) Inside Caesars Palace, 3570 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 731-7110
The Las Vegas incarnation of New York's legendary Harlem restaurant offers several things the original doesn't. For one thing, it's possible for normal humans to get a reservation. For another, it serves lunch. And the so-called "Lunch in the Park" menu is the only time they offer their delicious thin-crust pizzas. Chef Carla Pellegrino offers five different versions that are among the best pizzas in the city, all priced between $7 and $17. (AM) Inside Caesars Palace, 3570 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 731-7110
Payard Patisserie & Bistro
Payard Patisserie & Bistro
You can enjoy coffee and carefully crafted chocolates for about twenty bucks, or you can wise up, sit down in Payard's quaint little café, fork over $19, and partake of one of the best lunch deals on the Strip. Start with a goat cheese onion tart or lobster salad, choose a delicate salmon en papillotte or snazzy couscous with lamb sausage for your entrée, and still eat your cake, too – since dessert is included. (BR) Inside Caesars Palace, 3570 Las Vegas Blvd. South, 731-7292
You can enjoy coffee and carefully crafted chocolates for about twenty bucks, or you can wise up, sit down in Payard's quaint little café, fork over $19, and partake of one of the best lunch deals on the Strip. Start with a goat cheese onion tart or lobster salad, choose a delicate salmon en papillotte or snazzy couscous with lamb sausage for your entrée, and still eat your cake, too – since dessert is included. (BR) Inside Caesars Palace, 3570 Las Vegas Blvd. South, 731-7292
Morels Steakhouse
Morels Steakhouse
On Morels' dinner menu, salads start at $16, and the least expensive appetizer is $19. But those looking to at least sample the cuisine have a unique opportunity every night from 9 p.m. to midnight. That's when the bar offers nine separate items for $9 each. They include pancetta-wrapped shrimp, stuffed red peppers and miniature beef Wellington. They're complex, delicious dishes, and the portions are surprisingly large. (AM) Inside The Palazzo, 3325 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 607-6333
On Morels' dinner menu, salads start at $16, and the least expensive appetizer is $19. But those looking to at least sample the cuisine have a unique opportunity every night from 9 p.m. to midnight. That's when the bar offers nine separate items for $9 each. They include pancetta-wrapped shrimp, stuffed red peppers and miniature beef Wellington. They're complex, delicious dishes, and the portions are surprisingly large. (AM) Inside The Palazzo, 3325 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 607-6333
Julian Serrano
Julian Serrano
Again with the Spanish tapas? Absolutely, yes, especially when the master is calling the shots. Everything from the paella to the béchamel-laced croquetas is just a little bit better than the neighborhood joints at this Aria hotspot, and everything but that paella and the supreme Pata Negra ham can be yours for less than 15 bucks. Pure and simple joy: sautéed padron peppers for $8, or creamy mushroom risotto for $10. (BR) Aria, 3730 Las Vegas Blvd. South, 590-8250
Again with the Spanish tapas? Absolutely, yes, especially when the master is calling the shots. Everything from the paella to the béchamel-laced croquetas is just a little bit better than the neighborhood joints at this Aria hotspot, and everything but that paella and the supreme Pata Negra ham can be yours for less than 15 bucks. Pure and simple joy: sautéed padron peppers for $8, or creamy mushroom risotto for $10. (BR) Aria, 3730 Las Vegas Blvd. South, 590-8250
Fleur de Lys
Fleur de Lys
Hubert Keller's Fleur de Lys is both delicious and pricey. Fortunately for those who want to sample the Top Chef Masters finalist's cuisine without breaking the bank, Executive Chef Steve Wolf has created a lounge menu. Seventeen dishes are priced below $15, with five desserts just $5 each. A set of four truffle onion soup shooters will only cost you $6, while the spicy rock shrimp with glass noodles and Asian vegetables is just $12. (AM) Inside Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 632-9400
Hubert Keller's Fleur de Lys is both delicious and pricey. Fortunately for those who want to sample the Top Chef Masters finalist's cuisine without breaking the bank, Executive Chef Steve Wolf has created a lounge menu. Seventeen dishes are priced below $15, with five desserts just $5 each. A set of four truffle onion soup shooters will only cost you $6, while the spicy rock shrimp with glass noodles and Asian vegetables is just $12. (AM) Inside Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 632-9400
First Food & Bar
First Food & Bar
New York expatriate Sam Demarco offers up some of the most decadent upscale bar food in town. Among the best: a plate of Philly cheese steak dumplings. At $14.44, these potsticker-style dumplings are stuffed with a glorious combination of steak and cheese, and accompanied by siracha ketchup. Other snacks in the price range include a duck reuben eggroll and Indian tandoori chicken wings. (AM) Inside The Palazzo, 3325 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 792-8900
New York expatriate Sam Demarco offers up some of the most decadent upscale bar food in town. Among the best: a plate of Philly cheese steak dumplings. At $14.44, these potsticker-style dumplings are stuffed with a glorious combination of steak and cheese, and accompanied by siracha ketchup. Other snacks in the price range include a duck reuben eggroll and Indian tandoori chicken wings. (AM) Inside The Palazzo, 3325 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 792-8900
Super Mex
Super Mex
It's Mexican, it's open 24 hours, and it's not Roberto's, which means you can feast late-night minus the mating cries of drunken frat mooks. Super's 24/7 value menu has a glut of $4.99 deals. The best: the Super Burrito or the taco salad with shredded chicken. Stuff yourself, share or doggie bag 'em. (AK) 3455 E. Sunset Road, 436-5200; 6450 S. Durango Road, 312-8000
It's Mexican, it's open 24 hours, and it's not Roberto's, which means you can feast late-night minus the mating cries of drunken frat mooks. Super's 24/7 value menu has a glut of $4.99 deals. The best: the Super Burrito or the taco salad with shredded chicken. Stuff yourself, share or doggie bag 'em. (AK) 3455 E. Sunset Road, 436-5200; 6450 S. Durango Road, 312-8000
Smashburger
Smashburger
This bustling burger joint is snagging buzz for serving gourmet slabs at bargain prices. The Sin City Smashburger – a blur of egg, bacon, beef, cheese and haystack onion – is less a burger than some decadent, unrelenting initiation rite, and a host of smashsalads, smashsides, smashthis and smashthat round out the menu. Burgers of sundry weight classes run $4.99-$6.99, sides $.99-$3.99. A must-taste: the rosemary- and olive olive-coated fries – uh, smashfries. (AK) 7541 W. Lake Mead Blvd, 982-0009; 9109 W. Sahara, 462-5500
This bustling burger joint is snagging buzz for serving gourmet slabs at bargain prices. The Sin City Smashburger – a blur of egg, bacon, beef, cheese and haystack onion – is less a burger than some decadent, unrelenting initiation rite, and a host of smashsalads, smashsides, smashthis and smashthat round out the menu. Burgers of sundry weight classes run $4.99-$6.99, sides $.99-$3.99. A must-taste: the rosemary- and olive olive-coated fries – uh, smashfries. (AK) 7541 W. Lake Mead Blvd, 982-0009; 9109 W. Sahara, 462-5500
Slidin' Thru
Slidin' Thru
Following a nationwide trend, Slidin' Thru is Las Vegas' first mobile food truck that invites fans to follow its movements via Facebook or Twitter. Its legion of hardcore devotees routinely travel across town when they hear about an unscheduled stop, anxious to grab one of the truck's large and constantly evolving variety of delicious mini-sandwiches. Sliders are $3 apiece or two for $5. (AM) Various locations, Slidinthru.com
Following a nationwide trend, Slidin' Thru is Las Vegas' first mobile food truck that invites fans to follow its movements via Facebook or Twitter. Its legion of hardcore devotees routinely travel across town when they hear about an unscheduled stop, anxious to grab one of the truck's large and constantly evolving variety of delicious mini-sandwiches. Sliders are $3 apiece or two for $5. (AM) Various locations, Slidinthru.com
Firefly
Firefly
There's a reason Firefly continues to grow as other tapas joints keep popping up all over town: value. But low prices mean nothing if the food isn't reliably delicious, and that perfectly describes the menu at Firefly. Only about five of some 40 mini-dishes reach the $10 mark. Don't tell, but we'd happily pay more for cool gazpacho, crisp empanadas, a great Thai beef salad and cheese-stuffed piquillo peppers. (BR) 3900 Paradise Road, 369-3971, or at the Plaza, 1 Main St., 380-1352
There's a reason Firefly continues to grow as other tapas joints keep popping up all over town: value. But low prices mean nothing if the food isn't reliably delicious, and that perfectly describes the menu at Firefly. Only about five of some 40 mini-dishes reach the $10 mark. Don't tell, but we'd happily pay more for cool gazpacho, crisp empanadas, a great Thai beef salad and cheese-stuffed piquillo peppers. (BR) 3900 Paradise Road, 369-3971, or at the Plaza, 1 Main St., 380-1352
El Taco Fresco
El Taco Fresco
It's hard not to wish you were already hungover ordering from the window inside this four-table dive. Everything is cheap, large and – guess what? – fresh. Order carne asada, carnitas or fish tacos (all $1.99) a la carte or have a taco plate with rice and beans ($4.99 for beef or chicken). The 24-hour joint's daily dollar add-ons, like Thursday's chicken finger taco (ask for it "hot"), are too good a deal to miss. (MA) 4755 W. Flamingo Road, 247-6633
It's hard not to wish you were already hungover ordering from the window inside this four-table dive. Everything is cheap, large and – guess what? – fresh. Order carne asada, carnitas or fish tacos (all $1.99) a la carte or have a taco plate with rice and beans ($4.99 for beef or chicken). The 24-hour joint's daily dollar add-ons, like Thursday's chicken finger taco (ask for it "hot"), are too good a deal to miss. (MA) 4755 W. Flamingo Road, 247-6633
Boardhouse Serious Sandwiches
Boardhouse Serious Sandwiches
This local chain's grilled portabella is a messy, savory miracle at $7.65, exponentially better than anything you'll find at those $5 foot-long shacks. The Del Mar is roasted, hand-pulled turkey with cranberry sauce, candied pecans, lettuce, mayo and cream cheese on thick slabs of wheat bread; budget decadence at $6.45. Others, including the classic roast beef, pastrami, etc., are also beyond the ordinary. (JH). 4626 S. Maryland Parkway, 736-2537; 170 N. Boulder Highway, 565-3526; 1513 W. Craig Road, 633-4006
This local chain's grilled portabella is a messy, savory miracle at $7.65, exponentially better than anything you'll find at those $5 foot-long shacks. The Del Mar is roasted, hand-pulled turkey with cranberry sauce, candied pecans, lettuce, mayo and cream cheese on thick slabs of wheat bread; budget decadence at $6.45. Others, including the classic roast beef, pastrami, etc., are also beyond the ordinary. (JH). 4626 S. Maryland Parkway, 736-2537; 170 N. Boulder Highway, 565-3526; 1513 W. Craig Road, 633-4006
Archi's Thai
Archi's Thai
Vegas foodies know we've got the goods when it comes to Thai cuisine. The thing about Archi's? It's just as great – for a few dollars less. Spicy lime larb salad is just $7.95, and coconut-based tom yum or tom kha soups are just under $10, even with big juicy shrimp in the mix. Get Archi's specialty pad thai at lunch for under $7, or my favorite, spicy basil chicken. (BR) 9350 W. Sahara Road, 363-9699; 6360 W. Flamingo Road, 880-5550; 6345 S. Rainbow Blvd., 870-5558
Vegas foodies know we've got the goods when it comes to Thai cuisine. The thing about Archi's? It's just as great – for a few dollars less. Spicy lime larb salad is just $7.95, and coconut-based tom yum or tom kha soups are just under $10, even with big juicy shrimp in the mix. Get Archi's specialty pad thai at lunch for under $7, or my favorite, spicy basil chicken. (BR) 9350 W. Sahara Road, 363-9699; 6360 W. Flamingo Road, 880-5550; 6345 S. Rainbow Blvd., 870-5558
Monday, May 20, 2013
CUT
CUT
AAA Four Diamond CUT restaurant in Las Vegas is the second location for master chef and restaurateur Wolfgang Puck’s critically acclaimed, award-winning Beverly Hills steakhouse of the same name in the Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel. Widely acknowledged as one of the most popular restaurants in the United States, CUT has raised the bar within the fine dining industry and has garnered high praise from prestigious publications including the New York Times, Los Angeles Times (Three Stars), Wall Street Journal and Wine Spectator and was named one of the top three steakhouses in America by Bon Appetit Magazine.
Located at The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino in Las Vegas, the Avery Brooks & Associates designed 160-seat restaurant and 60-seat bar, provides a modern aesthetic to the traditional steakhouse. Adjacent to the restaurant’s main dining room is an energetic, upscale bar and lounge showcasing exclusive custom cocktails, classic drinks and a smaller menu called “Rough Cuts” featuring CUT’s popular appetizers. The lounge provides the perfect vantage point to people watch into the bustling Shoppes at The Palazzo, overlooking the famous Barneys New York. Private dining space also is available featuring a fully retractable bronze glass wall that opens to a contemporary wine display.
Desert Companion
Reviews
Wolfgang Puck's Palazzo restaurant is pricey, but it's also the most innovative steakhouse in town. So if you want to get a taste of Puck's genius at deconstructing the classic steakhouse, drop by the bar and order his bone marrow flan with mushroom marmalade and parsley salad. It's only a few bites for $17, but even if you think you don't like marrow, this dish alone should be enough to convince you to start saving for a full dinner here. (AM) Inside The Palazzo, 3325 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 607-6300
Cut Menu
http://www.wolfgangpuck.com/content/files/foodmenu_CUT%20LV%20MENU%20May%2014.pdf
Dessert Menu
http://www.wolfgangpuck.com/content/files/foodmenu_CUT%20MENU%20Dessert%205.13.13.pdf
Cheese Menu
http://www.wolfgangpuck.com/content/files/foodmenu_CHEESE%204.26.13.pdf
Wolfgang Puck's Palazzo restaurant is pricey, but it's also the most innovative steakhouse in town. So if you want to get a taste of Puck's genius at deconstructing the classic steakhouse, drop by the bar and order his bone marrow flan with mushroom marmalade and parsley salad. It's only a few bites for $17, but even if you think you don't like marrow, this dish alone should be enough to convince you to start saving for a full dinner here. (AM) Inside The Palazzo, 3325 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 607-6300
Cut Menu
http://www.wolfgangpuck.com/content/files/foodmenu_CUT%20LV%20MENU%20May%2014.pdf
Dessert Menu
http://www.wolfgangpuck.com/content/files/foodmenu_CUT%20MENU%20Dessert%205.13.13.pdf
Cheese Menu
http://www.wolfgangpuck.com/content/files/foodmenu_CHEESE%204.26.13.pdf
La Creperie
La Creperie
Sometimes it pays to wade through the fanny packs, especially when seeking out a delicacy as heavenly as the crepe. Whether savory or sweet, all crepes here are $9.99, and plenty for two. The du soleil is soooo French countryside with fresh veggie ratatouille, scrambled egg, mozzarella cheese and basil, topped with béchamel. The peanut crepe is a Chantilly cream-covered treasure hunt of fresh bananas among peanut and caramel sauces that even Elvis would approve of. (MA) Inside Paris Las Vegas, 3655 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 946-7000
Sometimes it pays to wade through the fanny packs, especially when seeking out a delicacy as heavenly as the crepe. Whether savory or sweet, all crepes here are $9.99, and plenty for two. The du soleil is soooo French countryside with fresh veggie ratatouille, scrambled egg, mozzarella cheese and basil, topped with béchamel. The peanut crepe is a Chantilly cream-covered treasure hunt of fresh bananas among peanut and caramel sauces that even Elvis would approve of. (MA) Inside Paris Las Vegas, 3655 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 946-7000
Country Club
Country Club
If you're missing the sweet Southern hospitality of brunch at the former locals' Strip favorite Commander's Palace, Chef Carlos Guia is doing an updated version in his well-appointed room at Wynn. Go Saturday to skip the live jazz and all-inclusive Sunday price ($59) and revel in the delicious affordables, which include French toast bread pudding with glazed bacon, sweet corn chowder and a smoked Chipotle burger. (BR) Wynn Las Vegas, 3131 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 248-3463
If you're missing the sweet Southern hospitality of brunch at the former locals' Strip favorite Commander's Palace, Chef Carlos Guia is doing an updated version in his well-appointed room at Wynn. Go Saturday to skip the live jazz and all-inclusive Sunday price ($59) and revel in the delicious affordables, which include French toast bread pudding with glazed bacon, sweet corn chowder and a smoked Chipotle burger. (BR) Wynn Las Vegas, 3131 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 248-3463
Bradley Ogden
Bradley Ogden
Ogden is one of America's most celebrated American chefs. And his signature dish is his Maytag blue cheese soufflé. If you want to see what all the fuss is about, pay a visit to the bar, where you can get the appetizer on its own for $19. Or, if you want something more casual, a special bar menu offers fish and chips, a chicken sandwich, or a burger that famed critic Alan Richman once called "the best burger I ate this year" – all for under $20. (AM) Inside Caesars Palace, 3570 S. Las Vegas Blvd., 731-7110
Ogden is one of America's most celebrated American chefs. And his signature dish is his Maytag blue cheese soufflé. If you want to see what all the fuss is about, pay a visit to the bar, where you can get the appetizer on its own for $19. Or, if you want something more casual, a special bar menu offers fish and chips, a chicken sandwich, or a burger that famed critic Alan Richman once called "the best burger I ate this year" – all for under $20. (AM) Inside Caesars Palace, 3570 S. Las Vegas Blvd., 731-7110
Border Grill
Border Grill
There is not a more innovative Mexican restaurant in Las Vegas at any price, which makes it so much sweeter that the fiery, flavorful cuisine of Border Grill is so reasonably priced. Smoky beef brisket taquitos ($18) and chicken chilaquiles ($19) are my lunch favorites, and – to break the rules for a sec – getting the superior grilled fish tacos Ensenada for $23 or orange-and-cinnamon infused cochinita Pibil for $24 feels like stealing. (BR) Inside Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. South, 632-7403
There is not a more innovative Mexican restaurant in Las Vegas at any price, which makes it so much sweeter that the fiery, flavorful cuisine of Border Grill is so reasonably priced. Smoky beef brisket taquitos ($18) and chicken chilaquiles ($19) are my lunch favorites, and – to break the rules for a sec – getting the superior grilled fish tacos Ensenada for $23 or orange-and-cinnamon infused cochinita Pibil for $24 feels like stealing. (BR) Inside Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. South, 632-7403
B&B Ristorante
B&B Ristorante
At his downstairs restaurant in The Venetian, Mario Batali shocks a lot of customers with pricey exotic dishes that include tongue, tripe, lambs' brains, oxtail and beef cheeks. But you can actually experience a handful of his more traditional, approachable pasta entrees for $25 or less. And if you dine here from 5-6 p.m. or 10 p.m. to midnight, a 20 percent discount brings more offerings under the $25 mark. (AM) Inside The Venetian, 3355 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 266-9977
At his downstairs restaurant in The Venetian, Mario Batali shocks a lot of customers with pricey exotic dishes that include tongue, tripe, lambs' brains, oxtail and beef cheeks. But you can actually experience a handful of his more traditional, approachable pasta entrees for $25 or less. And if you dine here from 5-6 p.m. or 10 p.m. to midnight, a 20 percent discount brings more offerings under the $25 mark. (AM) Inside The Venetian, 3355 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 266-9977
Andre's
Andre's
For the most decadent drink in town, head to the bar at Andre's in the Monte Carlo. The Marti-Gras is essentially a foie gras martini, created by Chef Gary LaMorte by using roasted foie gras, vodka, vanilla bean, honey, huckleberries or other seasonal garnish, and topped with shaved seasonal truffles. At $18, it's accompanied by a tray of four desserts. (AM) Inside The Monte Carlo, 3770 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 798-7151
For the most decadent drink in town, head to the bar at Andre's in the Monte Carlo. The Marti-Gras is essentially a foie gras martini, created by Chef Gary LaMorte by using roasted foie gras, vodka, vanilla bean, honey, huckleberries or other seasonal garnish, and topped with shaved seasonal truffles. At $18, it's accompanied by a tray of four desserts. (AM) Inside The Monte Carlo, 3770 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 798-7151
Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana
Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana
It's real Neapolitan-style pizza, oil and vinegar are on the table and a Peroni comes with a chilled glass. The caprese ($6.99) is aromatic and a misto platter ($11.99) sampling meats, cheeses and olives is a meal in itself. But the inventive pies are the real draw. Move beyond the menu and try the pizza of the week (usually $11.99), like the Pizza Siracusa with Sicilian tuna, thin-sliced onion, crushed tomato, fresh mozzarella and basil. (MA) 140 S. Green Valley Parkway, Henderson, 222-3556
It's real Neapolitan-style pizza, oil and vinegar are on the table and a Peroni comes with a chilled glass. The caprese ($6.99) is aromatic and a misto platter ($11.99) sampling meats, cheeses and olives is a meal in itself. But the inventive pies are the real draw. Move beyond the menu and try the pizza of the week (usually $11.99), like the Pizza Siracusa with Sicilian tuna, thin-sliced onion, crushed tomato, fresh mozzarella and basil. (MA) 140 S. Green Valley Parkway, Henderson, 222-3556
Pizza My Dear
Pizza My Dear
The per-topping regime at this two-table neighborhood spot is heavy with gourmet ingredients, and a basic 8-inch pie with one topping ($4.99) has just the right crust-to-sauce-to-cheese ratio. Pizza by the slice ($1.99), a garden side salad ($3) or the 11 a.m.-4 p.m. lunch special of a one-topping 12-inch pizza will leave you enough dough for the tiramisu ($3.25). (MA) 1725 E. Warm Springs Road, #9; 368-3327
The per-topping regime at this two-table neighborhood spot is heavy with gourmet ingredients, and a basic 8-inch pie with one topping ($4.99) has just the right crust-to-sauce-to-cheese ratio. Pizza by the slice ($1.99), a garden side salad ($3) or the 11 a.m.-4 p.m. lunch special of a one-topping 12-inch pizza will leave you enough dough for the tiramisu ($3.25). (MA) 1725 E. Warm Springs Road, #9; 368-3327
Mac Shack
Mac Shack
This latest venture from Marcello Mauro, whose family owns both Nora's Cuisine and Nora's Wine Bar, is an extremely casual pasta house. You can start with your choice of 15 pastas topped with your choice of nine sauces for $6, then add ingredients for between 50 cents and $1.50 apiece. Or you can choose from more than a dozen of the chef's own creations, none of which are more than $9. (AM) 8640 W. Warm Springs Road, 463-2433
This latest venture from Marcello Mauro, whose family owns both Nora's Cuisine and Nora's Wine Bar, is an extremely casual pasta house. You can start with your choice of 15 pastas topped with your choice of nine sauces for $6, then add ingredients for between 50 cents and $1.50 apiece. Or you can choose from more than a dozen of the chef's own creations, none of which are more than $9. (AM) 8640 W. Warm Springs Road, 463-2433
Johnny McGuire's
Johnny McGuire's
This Colorado-bred joint shoots for maximum satisfaction by really packing it in between the bread. A "regular" sandwich is $7.50, but there's nothing regular about the Olympian, grilled corned beef, turkey, pastrami, grilled onions and peppers, tomato, Swiss cheese, coleslaw and dressing. That's one sandwich, people. Hot or cold, salads, breakfasts or hot dogs, Johnny McGuire's does it all. (BR) Town Square, 6599 Las Vegas Blvd. South #209, 982-0002
This Colorado-bred joint shoots for maximum satisfaction by really packing it in between the bread. A "regular" sandwich is $7.50, but there's nothing regular about the Olympian, grilled corned beef, turkey, pastrami, grilled onions and peppers, tomato, Swiss cheese, coleslaw and dressing. That's one sandwich, people. Hot or cold, salads, breakfasts or hot dogs, Johnny McGuire's does it all. (BR) Town Square, 6599 Las Vegas Blvd. South #209, 982-0002
Hank's Fine Steaks and Martinis
Hank's Fine Steaks and Martinis
It would be hard to find a nicer place to start a night out than the chandelier-draped bar at Hank's. Pre-party noshing is good at the neighborhood eatery and martinis taste twice as nice during half-price happy hour from 5-7 p.m. Try the mixed berry with candied pecan salad ($13) or the jumbo lump crab cake ($18). The buttermilk fried chicken ($28) is perfectly crispy and moist, large enough for two, and paired with an earthy, spicy mustard. (MA) Inside Green Valley Ranch Casino, 2300 Paseo Verde Parkway, 617-7075
It would be hard to find a nicer place to start a night out than the chandelier-draped bar at Hank's. Pre-party noshing is good at the neighborhood eatery and martinis taste twice as nice during half-price happy hour from 5-7 p.m. Try the mixed berry with candied pecan salad ($13) or the jumbo lump crab cake ($18). The buttermilk fried chicken ($28) is perfectly crispy and moist, large enough for two, and paired with an earthy, spicy mustard. (MA) Inside Green Valley Ranch Casino, 2300 Paseo Verde Parkway, 617-7075
Dad's Grilled Cheese
Dad's Grilled Cheese
Once the culinary province of harried moms and dorm kids, grilled cheese has gotten an aggressive gourmet makeover at Dad's Grilled Cheese, resulting in more than a dozen tummy-coating sandwiches such as The Gondolier ($5.99), with hard salami, pepperoni, olives and peppers aswim in melted provolone, and The Executive ($5.99), a veggie number on a bedrock of muenster, Swiss and cheddar. Whatever 'wich you choose, it's guaranteed to be toasty, cheesy and comforting. (AK) 5255 S. Decatur Ave. #115, 247-6640
Once the culinary province of harried moms and dorm kids, grilled cheese has gotten an aggressive gourmet makeover at Dad's Grilled Cheese, resulting in more than a dozen tummy-coating sandwiches such as The Gondolier ($5.99), with hard salami, pepperoni, olives and peppers aswim in melted provolone, and The Executive ($5.99), a veggie number on a bedrock of muenster, Swiss and cheddar. Whatever 'wich you choose, it's guaranteed to be toasty, cheesy and comforting. (AK) 5255 S. Decatur Ave. #115, 247-6640
Caña Latin Kitchen & Bar
Caña Latin Kitchen & Bar
Ceviches and tiraditos, combining fresh raw fish with intense citrus flavors, are the specialty at this hip new Town Square haunt. They're all delicious, and the priciest selection might be the stunning hamachi tiradito at a reasonable $16. Caña's menu of delectable small plates also includes a creamy-rich, secretly spicy serving of mac & cheese for $8. It's a steal. (BR) In Town Square, 6599 Las Vegas Blvd. South #210, 722-6060
Ceviches and tiraditos, combining fresh raw fish with intense citrus flavors, are the specialty at this hip new Town Square haunt. They're all delicious, and the priciest selection might be the stunning hamachi tiradito at a reasonable $16. Caña's menu of delectable small plates also includes a creamy-rich, secretly spicy serving of mac & cheese for $8. It's a steal. (BR) In Town Square, 6599 Las Vegas Blvd. South #210, 722-6060
Bootlegger Bistro
The Bootlegger Bistro
At the Bootlegger Bistro you can get a pasta dinner and a show for $15 or less. The restaurant, which has been in the family of former showgirl and ex-Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt for generations, features live music nightly, with several generations of Strip performers performing regularly. It's a taste of old Vegas included in the price of the meal. And the menu features eleven different pasta dishes under $15. (AM) 7700 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 736-4939
At the Bootlegger Bistro you can get a pasta dinner and a show for $15 or less. The restaurant, which has been in the family of former showgirl and ex-Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt for generations, features live music nightly, with several generations of Strip performers performing regularly. It's a taste of old Vegas included in the price of the meal. And the menu features eleven different pasta dishes under $15. (AM) 7700 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 736-4939
Retro Bakery
Retro Bakery
Cupcakes are super-trendy, but not to Retro's bakers. Cupcakes are deadly serious here, and the flavor explosion from just one of these crazy-moist, buttercream-mountain-topped beauties ($2.65 each) might be too much for a Retro rookie to handle. Break yourself in with the signature Hop Scotch, vanilla dipped in butterscotch ganache, and work your way into extremes like Chocolate Covered Banana and Peanut Butter Cup. (BR) 7785 N. Durango Drive #130, 586-3740
Cupcakes are super-trendy, but not to Retro's bakers. Cupcakes are deadly serious here, and the flavor explosion from just one of these crazy-moist, buttercream-mountain-topped beauties ($2.65 each) might be too much for a Retro rookie to handle. Break yourself in with the signature Hop Scotch, vanilla dipped in butterscotch ganache, and work your way into extremes like Chocolate Covered Banana and Peanut Butter Cup. (BR) 7785 N. Durango Drive #130, 586-3740
Indian Curry Bowl
Indian Curry Bowl
ICB is a true hidden treasure, an ethnic food gem lost in an underdeveloped shopping center in the great northwestern Vegas sprawl. It deserves your love, particularly for some of the best samosas and naan bread in town. Elaborately spiced curries and fresh vegetarian options abound, in share-with-the-table friendly portions for crazy low prices. (BR) 5643 Centennial Center Blvd., 233-2695
ICB is a true hidden treasure, an ethnic food gem lost in an underdeveloped shopping center in the great northwestern Vegas sprawl. It deserves your love, particularly for some of the best samosas and naan bread in town. Elaborately spiced curries and fresh vegetarian options abound, in share-with-the-table friendly portions for crazy low prices. (BR) 5643 Centennial Center Blvd., 233-2695
Camacho's Cantina
Camacho's Cantina
The beautiful and often empty Aliante Station resort in North Las Vegas has some solid eats, but the best deal in the house is Taco Tuesday at Camacho's. Starting at 4 p.m., shockingly delicious street-style tacos of grilled chicken, carne asada or tender marinated pork in small, warm, corn tortillas are a buck each. (BR) Inside Aliante Station, 7300 Aliante Parkway, 692-7777
The beautiful and often empty Aliante Station resort in North Las Vegas has some solid eats, but the best deal in the house is Taco Tuesday at Camacho's. Starting at 4 p.m., shockingly delicious street-style tacos of grilled chicken, carne asada or tender marinated pork in small, warm, corn tortillas are a buck each. (BR) Inside Aliante Station, 7300 Aliante Parkway, 692-7777
Baladie Cafe
Baladie Cafe
Envy the residents of the north, for they have Baladie, where falafel is made the way Greeks intended – soft and moist inside and fried to a sesame-crusted crisp outside. Have the platter ($7.99), stacked with Mediterranean delights, or the pita ($5.99) and add the herb fries ($1.60) or the utterly satisfying and larger-than-usual side Greek salad ($2.99). The Mediterranean platter ($8.99) is a generous tour of the treats the mom-and-pop shop has to offer. (MA) 4872 W. Lone Mountain Road, 658-0024
Envy the residents of the north, for they have Baladie, where falafel is made the way Greeks intended – soft and moist inside and fried to a sesame-crusted crisp outside. Have the platter ($7.99), stacked with Mediterranean delights, or the pita ($5.99) and add the herb fries ($1.60) or the utterly satisfying and larger-than-usual side Greek salad ($2.99). The Mediterranean platter ($8.99) is a generous tour of the treats the mom-and-pop shop has to offer. (MA) 4872 W. Lone Mountain Road, 658-0024
Waffles Cafe
Waffles Cafe
As if you needed another excuse to pile an original single waffle ($3.95) miles high with sweet confections and gooey sauces (50 cents each), fresh cut fruit (75 cents each), powdered sugar and whipped cream. A made-to-order waffle at the colorful counter is a sweet freak's heaven with a calorie-to-cost ratio that will render your blood sugar levels spikier than the Dow Jones. 5165 S Fort Apache Road, Ste. 160; 597-9775
As if you needed another excuse to pile an original single waffle ($3.95) miles high with sweet confections and gooey sauces (50 cents each), fresh cut fruit (75 cents each), powdered sugar and whipped cream. A made-to-order waffle at the colorful counter is a sweet freak's heaven with a calorie-to-cost ratio that will render your blood sugar levels spikier than the Dow Jones. 5165 S Fort Apache Road, Ste. 160; 597-9775
Vintner Grill
Vintner Grill
You, too, can join the train of society ladies and suited execs that seems to run nonstop through Vintner Grill on an invisible stopwatch. The trick: Request the surprisingly hefty half-orders of anything off the lunch menu, from the lamb Bolognese to the crab ravioli to the generous entrée salads, and you've just scored a bargain power lunch. Seal the deal with a frothy cappuccino. (AK) 10100 W. Charleston Blvd. Suite 150, 214-5590
You, too, can join the train of society ladies and suited execs that seems to run nonstop through Vintner Grill on an invisible stopwatch. The trick: Request the surprisingly hefty half-orders of anything off the lunch menu, from the lamb Bolognese to the crab ravioli to the generous entrée salads, and you've just scored a bargain power lunch. Seal the deal with a frothy cappuccino. (AK) 10100 W. Charleston Blvd. Suite 150, 214-5590
TC's Rib Crib World Famous BBQ
TC's Rib Crib World Famous BBQ
The sammies on this beloved barbecue joint's $4.99 lunch menu all sport the prefix "Jr.," but between the sandwich (choices, choices: pulled pork, rib tips, brisket) and the bonus side (Dare you ask? Gotta get the sweet potato fries!), it's a filling bargain. For a buck more, get a pancreas-taunting cup of cobbler or banana pudding. Full yet? (AK) 8470 W. Desert Inn Road, 451-7427
The sammies on this beloved barbecue joint's $4.99 lunch menu all sport the prefix "Jr.," but between the sandwich (choices, choices: pulled pork, rib tips, brisket) and the bonus side (Dare you ask? Gotta get the sweet potato fries!), it's a filling bargain. For a buck more, get a pancreas-taunting cup of cobbler or banana pudding. Full yet? (AK) 8470 W. Desert Inn Road, 451-7427
Hachi
Hachi
Hachi's chef Linda Rodriguez and her husband and sushi chef Martin Swift were both trained under Nobu Matsuhisa, with Martin working at Nobu in London, and Linda working there and at Nobu New York. They offer similar fusion cuisine and sushi at Hachi, but at a fraction of the price. In fact, 38 separate menu items cost $8 each or less, including tempura, fried rice, sashimi, dumplings, ribs and five different specialty rolls. (AM) Inside The Red Rock Casino, 11011 W. Charleston Blvd., 797-7576
Hachi's chef Linda Rodriguez and her husband and sushi chef Martin Swift were both trained under Nobu Matsuhisa, with Martin working at Nobu in London, and Linda working there and at Nobu New York. They offer similar fusion cuisine and sushi at Hachi, but at a fraction of the price. In fact, 38 separate menu items cost $8 each or less, including tempura, fried rice, sashimi, dumplings, ribs and five different specialty rolls. (AM) Inside The Red Rock Casino, 11011 W. Charleston Blvd., 797-7576
Eddie D's Famous Italian Sandwiches
Eddie D's Famous Italian Sandwiches
This unheralded Italian neighborhood deli is joyfully throwing together some of the best sandwiches in town, including chewy hard rolls stuffed with slow-cooked pork and beef that should cost way more than seven bucks. Eddie D's may serve the best homemade meatball sub in town, they've got all your favorite imported ingredients from prosciutto to capacola, and their signature sandwiches are named after Sopranos characters. What more do you want? (BR) 8410 W. Cheyenne Ave. #102, 541-8792
This unheralded Italian neighborhood deli is joyfully throwing together some of the best sandwiches in town, including chewy hard rolls stuffed with slow-cooked pork and beef that should cost way more than seven bucks. Eddie D's may serve the best homemade meatball sub in town, they've got all your favorite imported ingredients from prosciutto to capacola, and their signature sandwiches are named after Sopranos characters. What more do you want? (BR) 8410 W. Cheyenne Ave. #102, 541-8792
Bamboo Bistro
Bamboo Bistro
For a Vietnamese feast like no other, head to Bamboo Bistro. While the menu boasts countless affordable Southeast Asian delicacies, the crowning jewel is Bo 7 Mon Hang Nong. This $21 indulgence (which could easily satisfy two moderately hungry diners or one ravenous one) features seven separate courses of beef. You even get to cook your own meat in the fondue-style bho numg dam, and wrap several of your courses in rice paper yourself. (AM) 8560 W. Desert Inn Road, 838-6770
For a Vietnamese feast like no other, head to Bamboo Bistro. While the menu boasts countless affordable Southeast Asian delicacies, the crowning jewel is Bo 7 Mon Hang Nong. This $21 indulgence (which could easily satisfy two moderately hungry diners or one ravenous one) features seven separate courses of beef. You even get to cook your own meat in the fondue-style bho numg dam, and wrap several of your courses in rice paper yourself. (AM) 8560 W. Desert Inn Road, 838-6770
Uncle Joe's Pizza
Uncle Joe's Pizza
The classic walk-in-and-grab-a-slice pizza joint will never get old, and Uncle Joe's boasts the added benefit of the charms of East Fremont. At lunch, five bucks on the dot will get you two tasty slabs of cheese pizza, glistening with just the right amount of grease and ready for a generous dash of red pepper and dried oregano, and an ice-cold can of Coke. (BR) 505 Fremont St., 385-2162
The classic walk-in-and-grab-a-slice pizza joint will never get old, and Uncle Joe's boasts the added benefit of the charms of East Fremont. At lunch, five bucks on the dot will get you two tasty slabs of cheese pizza, glistening with just the right amount of grease and ready for a generous dash of red pepper and dried oregano, and an ice-cold can of Coke. (BR) 505 Fremont St., 385-2162
Tinoco's Kitchen Express
Tinoco's Kitchen Express
Okay, so it's a glorified casino snack bar, its brand-name appeal deflated a bit by barstool seating that offers you an up-close view of shambling and muttering downtown casino denizens. Still, the food fills you up, cheaply and quickly, whether it's a (surprisingly spicy!) $2 soft taco, Tinoco burrito (chicken, pork or carne asada, $5.95) or more lumpen fare that ranges into hot dogs and club sandwiches in the $5-$7 range. Want ambience? Get it to go and eat in your car. (AK) Inside the Las Vegas Club, 18 Fremont St., 380-5735
Okay, so it's a glorified casino snack bar, its brand-name appeal deflated a bit by barstool seating that offers you an up-close view of shambling and muttering downtown casino denizens. Still, the food fills you up, cheaply and quickly, whether it's a (surprisingly spicy!) $2 soft taco, Tinoco burrito (chicken, pork or carne asada, $5.95) or more lumpen fare that ranges into hot dogs and club sandwiches in the $5-$7 range. Want ambience? Get it to go and eat in your car. (AK) Inside the Las Vegas Club, 18 Fremont St., 380-5735
Second Street Grill
Second Street Grill
You're downtown. You're hungry and you've tried every shrimp cocktail as far as the neon stretches. This slightly geriatric dining room offers a tender, tasty T-bone steak dinner ($18.99) well worth the time spent wondering how far a Social Security check stretches these days. Lighter options: The Peking duck and shrimp tacos ($14) or the pan-fried crab cakes ($15). So what if they pour the fancy water from plastic bottles? (MA) Inside the Fremont Casino, 200 Fremont St., 385-6277
You're downtown. You're hungry and you've tried every shrimp cocktail as far as the neon stretches. This slightly geriatric dining room offers a tender, tasty T-bone steak dinner ($18.99) well worth the time spent wondering how far a Social Security check stretches these days. Lighter options: The Peking duck and shrimp tacos ($14) or the pan-fried crab cakes ($15). So what if they pour the fancy water from plastic bottles? (MA) Inside the Fremont Casino, 200 Fremont St., 385-6277
Mamacita's
Mamacita's
Dinner and a show, downtown-style: Watching tourists stop outside Mamacita's to vamp to the pop music the waiter/DJ sprays onto the sidewalk while you sample Cuban standards like fried yucca ($3.95), crispy beef croquets and fried plantains ($8.95) served with bread, black beans and white rice – or one of the countless Mexican combo plates under $10 – you vow to return in the morning to cure that margarita hangover with the under-$10 breakfast menu. (AK) 611 E. Fremont St., 474-7033
Dinner and a show, downtown-style: Watching tourists stop outside Mamacita's to vamp to the pop music the waiter/DJ sprays onto the sidewalk while you sample Cuban standards like fried yucca ($3.95), crispy beef croquets and fried plantains ($8.95) served with bread, black beans and white rice – or one of the countless Mexican combo plates under $10 – you vow to return in the morning to cure that margarita hangover with the under-$10 breakfast menu. (AK) 611 E. Fremont St., 474-7033
Los Tacos
Los Tacos
You can get tacos on the cheap anywhere, but only at Los Tacos will a single taco qualify as lunch. It'll cost $3.50, it'll be wrapped in two large, soft, corn tortillas, it will include your choice of meat (get the pork carnitas or marinated al pastor) along with whole simmered pinto beans, melted cheese, avocado and pico de gallo, and it will seriously recalibrate your concept of tacoism. (BR) 1710 E. Charleston Blvd., 471-7447
You can get tacos on the cheap anywhere, but only at Los Tacos will a single taco qualify as lunch. It'll cost $3.50, it'll be wrapped in two large, soft, corn tortillas, it will include your choice of meat (get the pork carnitas or marinated al pastor) along with whole simmered pinto beans, melted cheese, avocado and pico de gallo, and it will seriously recalibrate your concept of tacoism. (BR) 1710 E. Charleston Blvd., 471-7447
Lola's Louisiana Kitchen
Lola's Louisiana Kitchen
Lola's in the Holsum Lofts offers a wide variety of Louisiana cuisine for under $15. But it's the oysters that will keep you coming back. The best in Vegas, they're brushed with lemon butter marinade and Parmesan cheese, then grilled to perfection. You can get a half-dozen for just $11.49. Another surefire bargain hit is the chef's own creation: a crawfish version of hushpuppies known as crawpuppies for $5.99. (AM) 241 W. Charleston Blvd., 227-5652
Lola's in the Holsum Lofts offers a wide variety of Louisiana cuisine for under $15. But it's the oysters that will keep you coming back. The best in Vegas, they're brushed with lemon butter marinade and Parmesan cheese, then grilled to perfection. You can get a half-dozen for just $11.49. Another surefire bargain hit is the chef's own creation: a crawfish version of hushpuppies known as crawpuppies for $5.99. (AM) 241 W. Charleston Blvd., 227-5652
Kabob Korner
Kabob Korner
After your night of downtown rawker mayhem, Kabob Korner is cheap, filling, tasty and, best of all, within stumbling distance of your favorite bars and tattoo parlors (forgot to tell you: Look in the mirror). Fuel up on the fat menu of pitas. Standard: the formidable gyro pita ($4.99). Adventurous: the chili chicken pita ($4.99). For grazers: Decent hummus ($4.50), falafel ($2.99) and 99-cent samosas. (AK) 507 E. Fremont St., 384-7722
After your night of downtown rawker mayhem, Kabob Korner is cheap, filling, tasty and, best of all, within stumbling distance of your favorite bars and tattoo parlors (forgot to tell you: Look in the mirror). Fuel up on the fat menu of pitas. Standard: the formidable gyro pita ($4.99). Adventurous: the chili chicken pita ($4.99). For grazers: Decent hummus ($4.50), falafel ($2.99) and 99-cent samosas. (AK) 507 E. Fremont St., 384-7722
Aloha Specialties Restaurant
Aloha Specialties Restaurant
You might feel overwhelmed by the menu wall, but don't panic. The fare is simple but solid – and anything with the teriyaki chicken is delightful. The saimin ($4) is a bowl of brothy noodle heaven with eggs and green onions. Have a rice bowl ($2.95, $3.25) with your choice of teriyaki, or any of the teri sandwiches ($5.00) and a gooey side of mac salad ($1.45). Just make sure to bring cash. (MA) Inside The Cal casino, 12 E. Ogden Ave., 382-0338
You might feel overwhelmed by the menu wall, but don't panic. The fare is simple but solid – and anything with the teriyaki chicken is delightful. The saimin ($4) is a bowl of brothy noodle heaven with eggs and green onions. Have a rice bowl ($2.95, $3.25) with your choice of teriyaki, or any of the teri sandwiches ($5.00) and a gooey side of mac salad ($1.45). Just make sure to bring cash. (MA) Inside The Cal casino, 12 E. Ogden Ave., 382-0338
Pho Thanh Huong Restaurant
Pho Thanh Huong Restaurant
A godsend for the University District, Pho Thanh Huong is Vietnamese for "OMG, that hit the spot" (we think). The grilled chicken banh mi ($2.75) is the usual French roll filled with shredded meat and veggies, but great for the price and a little spicy with extra peppers. A small iced coffee with milk ($3.23) and small pho khong (rice noodle soup, ($4.49) won't break a student-sized budget, but service can be spotty. 1131 E. Tropicana Ave, Ste. D; 739-8703
A godsend for the University District, Pho Thanh Huong is Vietnamese for "OMG, that hit the spot" (we think). The grilled chicken banh mi ($2.75) is the usual French roll filled with shredded meat and veggies, but great for the price and a little spicy with extra peppers. A small iced coffee with milk ($3.23) and small pho khong (rice noodle soup, ($4.49) won't break a student-sized budget, but service can be spotty. 1131 E. Tropicana Ave, Ste. D; 739-8703
Merkato Ethiopian Cafe
Merkato Ethiopian Cafe
Don't let the "neutron-bombed strip mall" vibe put you off. Hey, the countless cabbies who frequent Merkato gotta be on to something. Entrees tend to run under $10, but you can forge a feast from appetizers, whether it's the humongous selata (tomato salad, $3.50) or yemisir sambusa (lentil-stuffed pastry, $1). Brekkie? Try the chechebsa (scrambled bread, $5), or kinche (cracked wheat with butter, $3.50). (AK) 855 E. Twain Ave., 796-1231
Don't let the "neutron-bombed strip mall" vibe put you off. Hey, the countless cabbies who frequent Merkato gotta be on to something. Entrees tend to run under $10, but you can forge a feast from appetizers, whether it's the humongous selata (tomato salad, $3.50) or yemisir sambusa (lentil-stuffed pastry, $1). Brekkie? Try the chechebsa (scrambled bread, $5), or kinche (cracked wheat with butter, $3.50). (AK) 855 E. Twain Ave., 796-1231
Ferraro's
Ferraro's
A deliciously lugubrious piano-and-vox duo croons while you're sipping a bargain syrah ($10 a glass) and sampling the exhaustive antipastini menu – tender gnocchi pomodoro ($8), arugula-topped beef carpaccio ($10) and grancini al tartufo (fried rice balls infused with truffles, $8) – after which you retire next to the patio firepond to sip some port. Barside or fireside at Ferraro's gorgeous new location only feels expensive. (AK) 4480 Paradise Road, 364-5300
A deliciously lugubrious piano-and-vox duo croons while you're sipping a bargain syrah ($10 a glass) and sampling the exhaustive antipastini menu – tender gnocchi pomodoro ($8), arugula-topped beef carpaccio ($10) and grancini al tartufo (fried rice balls infused with truffles, $8) – after which you retire next to the patio firepond to sip some port. Barside or fireside at Ferraro's gorgeous new location only feels expensive. (AK) 4480 Paradise Road, 364-5300
Jean Philippe Patisserie at Bellagio : The Restaurants
The artistic genius of Chef Jean-Philippe Maury is displayed daily at Las Vegas' first truly European-style pastry shop. You'll be welcomed into this imaginative display by a breathtaking chocolate fountain - a fitting entrée to the world of carefully crafted chocolates, cookies, cakes, crepes, salads, sandwiches and sweet inspirations.
http://www.JPchocolates.com
Cottage Café
Cottage Café
Las Vegas has no shortage of Ethiopian restaurants. What sets the quaint Cottage Café apart from the crowd are its location and its prices. It's located within walking distance of both The Hard Rock and the large concentration of gay and alternative watering holes just to the south of the resort, perfect for those looking to grab a cheap, delicious meal before a night of partying. None of the nearly 20 vegetarian and meat dinners is priced above $10. (AM) 4647 Paradise Road, 650-3395
Las Vegas has no shortage of Ethiopian restaurants. What sets the quaint Cottage Café apart from the crowd are its location and its prices. It's located within walking distance of both The Hard Rock and the large concentration of gay and alternative watering holes just to the south of the resort, perfect for those looking to grab a cheap, delicious meal before a night of partying. None of the nearly 20 vegetarian and meat dinners is priced above $10. (AM) 4647 Paradise Road, 650-3395
Veggie Delight
Veggie Delight
After double-taking at every "chicken," "beef" or "pork" on the menu (no real meat is served in this café), you could probably order any of the fairly-reminiscent-of-meat dishes and be pleasantly surprised. The vegetarian black pepper steak sandwich ($4.50) is a tofu-substitute banh mi, and the crunchy and spicy cucumber salad ($3) is perfect for hot summer days. Ordering vegan will break your budget, but only by parking meter fare. (MA) 3504 Wynn Road, 310-6565
After double-taking at every "chicken," "beef" or "pork" on the menu (no real meat is served in this café), you could probably order any of the fairly-reminiscent-of-meat dishes and be pleasantly surprised. The vegetarian black pepper steak sandwich ($4.50) is a tofu-substitute banh mi, and the crunchy and spicy cucumber salad ($3) is perfect for hot summer days. Ordering vegan will break your budget, but only by parking meter fare. (MA) 3504 Wynn Road, 310-6565
Tofu Hut
Tofu Hut
For the preposterous price of just $16.99 (even cheaper if you eat after 11 p.m.), you can engage in one of the most flavorful all-you-can-eats in Vegas. The grill on your table is roomy enough for tender, marinated bulgogi, chili- and sugar-laden pork belly and other Korean barbecue treats, but the real deals are the infinite side dishes: great kimchi, sesame oil salad and the molten tofu soup that gives this laid-back joint its name. (BR) 3290 Spring Mountain Road, 257-0072
For the preposterous price of just $16.99 (even cheaper if you eat after 11 p.m.), you can engage in one of the most flavorful all-you-can-eats in Vegas. The grill on your table is roomy enough for tender, marinated bulgogi, chili- and sugar-laden pork belly and other Korean barbecue treats, but the real deals are the infinite side dishes: great kimchi, sesame oil salad and the molten tofu soup that gives this laid-back joint its name. (BR) 3290 Spring Mountain Road, 257-0072
Tea Station
Tea Station
Like your tea chewy? Hit this brightly lit China Town teahouse popular with the otaku hipsters. If slurping tapioca nodules through a cartoon straw isn't your idea of a meal, skip the boba and leap into the menu for novel yums such as the sticky rice tamale ($3.75) or tea-infused eggs ($2.75). The hot and cold flavored teas are a bargain, too, served in generous mugs for under $5. (AK) 4355 E. Spring Mountain Road # 106, 889-9989
Like your tea chewy? Hit this brightly lit China Town teahouse popular with the otaku hipsters. If slurping tapioca nodules through a cartoon straw isn't your idea of a meal, skip the boba and leap into the menu for novel yums such as the sticky rice tamale ($3.75) or tea-infused eggs ($2.75). The hot and cold flavored teas are a bargain, too, served in generous mugs for under $5. (AK) 4355 E. Spring Mountain Road # 106, 889-9989
Shuseki
Shuseki
Tucked into a hive-like strip mall west of China Town proper, the low-key Shuseki boasts cheap eats galore for the luncher or late-nighter, from standards such as pork dumplings ($2.99) to green tea-infused rice with salmon ($4.99) to a generous bowl of crispy, lightly battered fish cakes ($3.99). (AK) 5115 Spring Mountain Road, 222-2321
Tucked into a hive-like strip mall west of China Town proper, the low-key Shuseki boasts cheap eats galore for the luncher or late-nighter, from standards such as pork dumplings ($2.99) to green tea-infused rice with salmon ($4.99) to a generous bowl of crispy, lightly battered fish cakes ($3.99). (AK) 5115 Spring Mountain Road, 222-2321
Ronald's Donuts
Ronald's Donuts
For vegans: Donuts that won't kill your soul. For non-vegans: Donuts that won't ruin your day. Bonus: They're truly tasty! Airy, soft and with just the right amount of icing, the regulars (75 cents each) from the top two shelves have never even seen an animal's shadow. The flaky vegan apple burrito ($1.10) is mom's apple pie rolled into breakfast. Bring cash, though, or you'll be digging for loose change for the donut holes ($1 a dozen). (MA) 4550 Spring Mountain Road, 873-1032
For vegans: Donuts that won't kill your soul. For non-vegans: Donuts that won't ruin your day. Bonus: They're truly tasty! Airy, soft and with just the right amount of icing, the regulars (75 cents each) from the top two shelves have never even seen an animal's shadow. The flaky vegan apple burrito ($1.10) is mom's apple pie rolled into breakfast. Bring cash, though, or you'll be digging for loose change for the donut holes ($1 a dozen). (MA) 4550 Spring Mountain Road, 873-1032
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