Open 11am until 5pm Sunday through Friday Snack Otoamana largely serves as a lunch spot for locals, though fair prices and idyllic beachfront seating with shade won’t disappoint tourists tired of overpriced resort Food.
One of many “Snack” Restaurants along Bora Bora’s main road, tucked behind the stairs of a home presumably owned by the Cook, Lunch at Otoamana ranges from a 450xpf Croque Monsieur to 1800xpf for Mahi Mahi with Salad and French Fries, with “Burgers” of Beef or Fish just 800-900 with an enormous Side of FIED Potatoes just 400xpf extra.
Nicely cooked and well-portioned, whole Tuna visibly being fileted in the Kitchen, another bargain comes in the form of a half-meter Nutella Banana Panini richly-filled, pressed and grilled until crispy.
To suggest Boulangerie Pâtisserie Matira is a local secret undersells the situation, its location down a small road near Povai Bay, no website and even an absence from Tripadvisor assuring only those who truly seek it out will experience the beauty created by Christian Blumet and his team.
About halfway between Vaitape and Matira Beach, minimal signage suggesting current hours from 6:30a to 12:30p Tuesday through Saturday and Sunday 5:00a until 10:00a, it is from a small standing area that choices are made, Viennoiseries featuring expert lamination more than capable of standing up to the island’s heat and humidity.
Impressed most by a Raisin Snail, wisps of Butter amidst a delicate crumb, Croissants fair almost equally while Pate a Choux also dazzles thanks to a brisk crackle and supple insides whether wrapped around Tahitian Vanilla Custard or Hazelnut Cream.
Offering a choice of Tartelettes, Salted Caramel and Banana sweeter than glazed Walnuts, be sure not to overlook Blumet’s Mille Feuille if it is available, because if one arrives close enough to opening the freshly-stacked specimen rivals those found in Paris or Lyon in terms of both taste and texture.
Parrot Fish – Rice, Green Beans, Broccoli, Carrots, Tahitian Vanilla Sauce
Ahi Tuna – Rice, Green Beans, Broccoli, Carrots, Wasabi Sauce
Coconut Pie – Whipped Cream, Housemade Coconut Ice Cream
Profiteroles – Dark Chocolate, Whipped Cream, Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream
Opened by a Polish noble in 1979, and later purchased by Los Angeles businessman Dexter Hewett, Bloody Mary’s hangs its reputation on locally caught Fish and New Zealand grass-fed Beef – plus a collection of A (and B)-list celebrities who’ve eaten there through the years.
Unquestionably Bora Bora’s most famous restaurant, thatched roof and sand floor sandwiching wooden tables and bar, it is during Dinner service that Bloody Mary’s develops a buzz thanks to a menu of daily specials where diners select their meal by sight.
1000xpf per person for round-trip transport, taxi or boat to a private dock depending on hotel, it is upon entry that daily choices are presented while reggae-replacements for real music play a bit too loudly overhead.
Soon seated on tree stumps, fair-priced Cocktails such as the easy-sipping Frozen Peach Coconut memorable for better reasons than flavorless Bread, starters range 1800-2400xpf with the Beef Kabob high-quality, as was Ceviche on this night featuring Mahi Mahi bright with Lime in a Coconut with its Milk.
All-grilled for Entrees, a focus on Fish justified, fans of Tuna will find Sashimi-grade Ahi barely kissed by flame while locally-caught Parrot Fish eats a lot like Flounder with its buttery flesh complimented by Tahitian Vanilla Sauce.
Not looking to reinvent the wheel with included Vegetables or Rice, each main around 3200xpf, Desserts are recited by memory and find the Profiteroles below average thanks to chewy Choux and a dearth of Chocolate while the Coconut Pie is wonderful in terms of both toothsome texture and subtle flavor.
Located on Matira Beach, and quite popular at Dinner, Bora Bora Beach Club offers a laid-back Lunch for those in the area beginning at 10am daily.
Built with lagoon views in mind, a menu of Sandwiches and Entrees augmented by dayboat specials from local fisherman, guests can expect friendly service to compliment prices competitive with the likes of Lucky House or Bloody Mary’s.
Shaded with sea breezes, Cocktails such as the bitter-sweet “Beach Club Signature” offered at 1600xpf, it was in bathing suits with coverups that Food arrived quickly, “Carbonara” clearly made with Cream upgraded by smoked Moonfish that is enjoyable albeit inauthentic while fried Duckbill shined thanks to Vanilla Sauce and a Crust of Coconut.
Unfortunately suffering a temporary oven issue, Fries a stand-in for other baked Sides, Dessert saw the “Exotic Vacherin” replace Profiteroles and Tart Tatin with good-quality Ice Cream beneath Meringue, Whipped Cream, Biscuit and dueling Sauces.
Pancakes, Maple Syrup, Hash Browns, Sauteed Mushrooms, Sausage
Butter Croissant, Pain au Raisin, Pain au Chocolat, Ham, Salami, Mortadella, Crisp, Brie, Reblochon, Mimolette
Like many Island Resorts Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora offers on-site dining, a pair of Restaurants from which The Haere Mai is ‘finer,’ and also host to a daily Breakfast Buffet.
Located at Maitai’s center, tables available inside or out, The Haere Mai offers “an eclectic mix of French cuisine and Polynesian flavors” at a cost of 3200xpf per person, or included in the price of stay if one is willing to sign a contract at check-in.
Not much to look at, a promise of “very welcoming and romantic” hardly accurate at all, it is alongside self-serve Coffee or Juice that items are available for perusal, the entirety basic and visually unappealing.
Nothing like InterContinental Le Moana down the street, though service was equally perfunctory, diners are left to choose between boxed Cereal and store-bought Yogurt, the “hot” section strictly American or British with everything from flaccid Bacon to chewy Pancakes and admittedly good Mushrooms.
Visited by feral cats during Breakfast, a good place to offload leftover Sausage, Cheeses are good but limited while Pastries are undoubtedly pulled from plastic wrap and soggy as a result, with or without little packets of Jelly.
Like many Island Resorts InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora offers on-site dining, a pair of Restaurants from which Noa Noa is ‘finer,’ and also host to a Tuesday International Buffet.
Located at Le Moana’s center, tables overlooking the lagoon, Noa Noa offers “Gourmet French-inspired cuisine, international fare and local delicacies” a la Carte mostly, but on this occasion matches them in all-you-can-eat format to a Tahitian dance group performing to the sound of drums, guitars and ukuleles.
Offered at a cost of 7500xpf per person exclusive of Drinks, outdoor seating benefiting those who reserve early with a privileged view, Dinner begins at 6:00pm with showtime at 7:30, the live cooking station buy throughout with Chicken, Tuna, Moonfish and mid-grade Beef.
Featuring far better service than at Breakfast, a Mai Tai served quickly and water kept full, plate one was filled with small Appetizers and steam-tray choices, Fried Shrimp in spicy Mayo a highlight along with traditionally prepared Pork and sticky Ribs.
Impressed next by a bowl of velvety Pumpkin Soup, a wealth of Vanilla filling the palate, creamy Bread Fruit is always highly recommended as a side to lagoon-caught Fish with a choice of housemade Sauces.
Baking Breads on-site, and presumably also Dessert, Fondue was skipped in lieu of small bites, a Pistachio Financier and Fruit Tart outpacing Choux affected by humidity while Crème Brulee and a Red Fruit Entremet each featured good flavor and technique.
Offering five Pies, the only logical choice a slice of each, both Coconut and Almond are delightful in terms of taste and texture while the Mango Pudding atop buttery Streusel and Jelly is also a highlight.
Mostly done eating by showtime, though a few items warranted seconds, fans of tribal dance will undoubtedly be impressed by the troupe’s athleticism, everything from belly dances to breaking a Coconut with bare hands culminating with swirling fire.
Located on the southmost tip of Bora Bora’s unnamed circumferential road is Snack Moi Here, one of several such thatched huts selling inexpensive eats bolstered by a lagoon view.
Open daily at 9:30am, cash-only with a concise menu of Sandwiches and Entrees, roughly 1500xpf per person will secure a filling meal, though both quality and variety fall short of other “Snack” Restaurants.
Quick service, with wait times best spent in shade overlooking white sand and blue water, Moi Here’s Coconut Shake is an icy concoction without much intrinsic flavor or sweetness, while Chicken Chow Mein thankfully features plenty of Protein to make up for a dearth of Seasoning.
Popular with locals who paddle up in boats or drive up on scooters, shallow water and free parking both plentiful, the Tuna Burger stands out with good flavor despite a smaller than average portion while Fries are crisp and offered with or without the same tangy Sauce on the Sandwich.
Although many will say dining in Bora Bora is expensive it certainly needn’t be, between various Snack, Roulotte and Food Trucks plus weekday roadside stands.
Focused here on the latter, though certainly less abundant than Tahiti, two popular spots for locals to grab Breakfast are from a white van in front of Vaitape’s Protestant Church and North of the bend near Pofai Bay.
Predictably cash only, both locations charging roughly 2000xpf per item, everything from the van is made daily by a man with a heavy French accent, his Croissant a bit affected by humidity while the Raisin Curl performed better, though the real standouts were glazed Brioche and a weighty Danish with Cream Cheese.
Onward to the stand, a young woman who doesn’t speak English or have bags setting up at 6:00am Monday through Friday, it is here that workers line up each day for Sandwiches and Baguette, though the real stars are crumbly Coconut Cake and a soft Waffle folded around Nutella.
Considered by many the best Restaurant on Bora Bora’s main island, St. James is hidden in the back of a Vaitape shopping center, and for those who decide to visit the Food, view and service are unparalleled.
Rooted in French technique with reliance on local ingredients, an accented Maître D’ from France greeting guests, checking in regularly and even escorting them to a private shuttle, it is with a glorious sunset that dinner began with Fish soon jumping and even a Black Tip Shark cruising by around 7:30pm.
Open at Lunch and Dinner, their Patisserie next door something of a hidden secret in the morning, those seeking Wine will find a substantial cellar, while Cocktails are plentiful including a Mai Tai reminiscent “Saint James Special.”
More French than many of the spots one will find in Paris, housemade Baguettes and Mushroom Bisque shooters offered complimentary, Saint James Foie Gras is flawlessly prepared and complimented by Chutney made from local Mangoes plus spiced Brioche Fruit Bread.
Smart to upsell “The Grand Special,” a thick Tenderloin whose complex Sauce is made tableside, fans of Duck will find the Breast here cooked low and slow with fat perfectly rendered alongside local Sweet Potatoes more than happy to sop up a Sauce of sweet Wine.
A good value for what is offered, informal but nonetheless special, Dessert predictably offers Crème Brulee featuring Tahitian Vanilla, but if the daily special is Saint James’ Apple Tart Tatin it is an absolute “must order” with exquisite flavor and diverse textures as well as temperatures.
Part of Le Maitai Bora Bora Resort, Tama’a Maitai overlooks the lagoon with continuous service from 11:30am until 9:00pm daily.
Considered Le Maitai’s more casual eatery, with Sandwiches, Pizza, Salads and Entrees at fair prices, it is under shade with breeze and fans that service is pleasant, Cooks visible working on grills and stoves in the middle of an open kitchen.
Using convection ovens for Pizzas, no blister like nearby Lucky House but a crisp Crust, Tama’a Maitai’s Dame Blanche is luxuriously appointed while their Burger arrives thick and properly cooked next to a pile of crispy Fries.
Not “fine dining,” but offering a number of upscale Desserts, fans of Profiteroles will find the version here every bit as good as those throughout France thanks to textbook Choux and Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream plus delicate Crème Chantilly and dark, thick Fudge.
Like many Island Resorts InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora offers on-site dining, a pair of Restaurants from which Noa Noa is ‘finer,’ and also host to a daily Breakfast Buffet.
Located at Le Moana’s center, tables overlooking the lagoon available inside or out, Noa Noa offers “Gourmet French-inspired cuisine, international fare and local delicacies” at a cost of 5000xpf per person, or half-off for every day of the stay if one is willing to sign a contract at check-in.
Not much to look at, décor akin to the InterContinental’s bungalows spread across two rooms, it is after accepting or declining Coffee that items are available for perusal, the majority fairly basic though everything is reportedly made on-site.
Requiring masks during the pandemic, perfunctory service neglecting to fill water or clear empty plates in a timely manner, round one featured Bread, Jam and Fruit with the Pain aux Céréales commendable, as too were Financiers with a delicate crumb.
Less impressed by Pancakes and French Toast, though Crepes made to order are worth the wait, skip Noa Noa’s flavorless Baguette in favor of Viennoiseries such as the spiral with Cinnamon plus soft and buttery Pound Cake.
Cooking Omelets to order, with a wide choice of additions, Breakfast Meats are outpaced by imported French Cheese plus roasted and dried Fruits.
At the southmost point of Bora Bora’s circumferencing “Unnamed Road” resides Lucky House Fare Manuia Restaurant, its reputation as a “Sports Bar” supported by everything from Nachos to Pizza though the Wine selection and Polynesian fare also deserves respect.
Founded in 2002 by Régis Jacquet, a brick oven in front and shaded seating with an indoor pool different from other nearby Restaurants overlooking the lagoon, it was at a cozy table that menus were presented from gracious servers fluent in English as well as French.
Upping the ante with Chalkboard Specials, plus featured Beverages at a discount, dinner began with semi-sweet Rose from blended Grapes that paired itself well to Pizza featuring a lightly charred bottom able to support dueling Cheeses, Potatoes and a trio of Meats.
Also doing good takeout business, though the kitchen was never slow, entrees arrive well-plated at justified cost, a 9000xpf slice of Duck Liver enhancing already delicious Magret while skewered Beef with Fries tasted a bit bland without a pour of Peppercorn Sauce.
Just steps from Matira Beach, and a bargain in comparison to Food from nearby resorts, wise diners won’t leave without an order of Profiteroles featuring above-average Choux and two types of Ice Cream liberally covered in warm Chocolate, Almonds and Chantilly.
Cheeseburger, Lettuce, Onions, Mayonnaise, Ketchup, Sesame Seed Bun
Fish Samoussa
Located just a few meters from the beach on Bora Bora’s southern tip, this caravan features a concise menu that varies from day to day depending on time of arrival and available Ingredients.
Seemingly run by a middle-aged woman and her children, the former cooking while youngsters collect Polynesian Francs from a small cart, prices range 500-1000 XPF for items ranging from Fruit to Burgers, Fish sold out on Sunday at noon and the Beef with Cheese an overcooked Patty drowned in Condiments on a dry Bun.
Friendly enough, but without any escape from midday sun, it was in an overwater bungalow that Samoussa proved better, though “Fish” at approximately $1 USD per bite tasted mostly like Vegetables inside the golden-crisp Pastry.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Apples and Pumpkin Seeds
Cranberry Sauce
Mushroom Gravy
Cornbread Stuffing
Roasted Ham with Sweet Glaze
Roasted Turkey with Mushroom Gravy
The Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll
The S’mores Turnover
The Lemon Blueberry Scone
The Pumpkin Spice Cookie
The Banana Flax Cake
The Loving v Virginia Brookie
The Peanut Butter Snickerdoodle
The Chai Spice Cookie
The Carrot Cake
Always on the move, both the Restaurant’s physical location and their health-conscious Cuisine, it was for Catering that David and Peter Mozes were again called upon Friday, the owners of Bronze Café offering to prepare a Thanksgiving Feast instead of the usual delicious Salads and Sandwiches.
Located near Desert Shores in Summerlin, the former home of Beau Monde Bakery providing turnkey access for a Restaurant now offering Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, it was from Chef Mozes’ home recipes that Lunch consisted of several bowls and trays, Roasted Sprouts making fast fans of those who opt to eat light while sized-down Croissants shined thanks to skilled lamination.
Complete with plates and utensils, Bronze Café’s Turkey tender and juicy, Sweet Potatoes again proved peerless while Cranberry Sauce, Cornbread Stuffing and an enormous glazed Ham each warranted a second (or third) helping.
Happy to receive a glut of Desserts, all Vegan and The Peanut Butter Snickerdoodle still Las Vegas’ best Cookie despite mounting competition, those missing Beau Monde’s gluten-free offerings will be happy to know the Banana Flax Cake is made without any Wheat protein, as too is a fully loaded Carrot Cake that has only gotten better with time.
Continuing strong with the cleverly titled Loving v Virginia, a Brookie that sees both halves nicely textured, Chai Spice Cookies remain soft and almost Cake-like while Pumpkin Spice rounds feature a soft and “buttery” crumb despite the lack of Butter, Milk or Eggs.
Rounding out the afternoon with a Cinnamon Roll, this month with subtle notes of Pumpkin, others delighted in S’Mores made with Vegan Marshmallows plus Lemon Blueberry Scones that are anything but dry like the ones served in England.
N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone, no matter where Chef Peter and David are set-up the quality has never declined, lunch on Thursday continuing to show quality and creativity bound to please those with and without dietary restrictions, whether they want to be gluttonous or eat light.
RECOMMENDED: Glazed Ham, Butter Croissant, Mashed Sweet Potatoes, Cornbread Stuffing, The Peanut Butter Snickerdoodle, The Carrot Cake, The Loving v. Virginia, The Banana Flax Cake.
AVOID: N/A.
TIP: 8a-8p daily at 2380 N Buffalo Drive, Suite 110. 702-852-2830. Online ordering via all the usual apps but catering best coordinated by contacting the Restaurant directly.
WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.
Roasted Trumpet Mushroom, Chili Honey, Fried Herbs
Pommes Puree, Butter
Bone Marrow, Lemon Gremolata, Toast Soldiers
Soy Glazed Short Rib, Apple, Rosemary
Fried Delicata Squash, Wildflower Honey, Parmesan Cheese, White Truffle
Warm Valrhona Chocolate Cake, Vanilla Ice Cream
Market Apple Pie, Maple Pecan Ice Cream
Last visited in October, and seventeen times prior including a yearly tradition, it was somewhat last-minute that Jean Georges Steakhouse once again found Chef Sean Griffin and his team executing at an unparalleled level on Thursday.
Led by Chef Griffin since 2015, including a renovation that upgraded décor and delivery of pristine Proteins and Produce, guests entering Jean Georges Steakhouse are greeted first at a podium before being led to spot-lit tables, the mood upscale but never stuffy while prices track similar to other like-Restaurants that feature far less creative cuisine.
Decorated in gold, and buzzing with activity, it was at a quiet table that carte blanche was deferred to the kitchen, Beverage service quickly followed by buttery Loaves of Brioche and appetizers such as Wagyu Carpaccio plus complex plate of Arugula with shaved Sprouts and Cheese.
Always inventive, Foie Gras with Figs and Granola brightened by Baking Spices, Octopus served as a segue to grilled Meats, the snappy Cephalopod decidedly Spanish prior to full Bones of Marrow alongside A5 Wagyu and Grass-Fed Piedmontese that is lean yet tender and rich.
Omitting the Wagyu Brisket until things are back to “normal,” Jean George’s Soy Glazed Short Rib standing in nicely, no guest should leave Jean Georges without a taste of the city’s best Fried Chicken, and if in season also the fried Squash with Honey and White Truffles.
Refreshing the palate between bites with Mushrooms, Vegetables and Potatoes, Dessert saw Apple Pie make a triumphant return along with Chef Vongerichten’s Chocolate Cake served with tableside theatrics.
FIVE STARS: Lots of people like to misappropriate terms like “farm-to-table” or “chef-driven” to differentiate their idea from others, but if one wants the very best of what Vegas has to offer there’s no finer place to trust the Chef than at Jean Georges Steakhouse at ARIA where Chef Griffin continues to create sides and starters every bit on par with the stunning selection of Meats.
RECOMMENDED: Japanese Wagyu Carpaccio, Foie Gras, Octopus, A5 Mishima Rib Eye Cap, Piedmontese All Natural Filet Mignon, Bone Marrow, Crunchy Organic Chicken, Tempura Squash, Market Apple Pie.
AVOID: N/A.
TIP: Online Menu is currently up-to-date, though daily specials are exactly that.
WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Pineapple and Marshmallows
Pumpkin Bread Pudding with Vanilla Creme Anglaise
Always happy to #supportlocal with one of Sin City’s very best, CRAFTkitchen again catered lunch on Wednesday, Chef Blinn predictably arriving early with all the necessary serviceware and this time wowing staff with a special Thanksgiving spread.
Making the twenty minute trek from Henderson, several trays delivered temperature-appropriate from a Restaurant that knows a thing or two about catering, it was around 11:30am that dishes were unpacked, the Cranberry Compote not to be confused with “Jelly” from a can while Stuffing made from housemade Bread was herbal and savory with bright spots of sweetness here and there.
Always well-portioned and fair-priced, a group of twenty-five getting their fill with plenty of leftovers packed to-go, the entree consisted of tender roasted Breast plus indulgent confit dark Meat amicable to smooth Gravy that also tasted great atop Vegetables glazed lightly with Soy.
Continuing with Cornbread, mini-Muffins that were moist even before a liberal spread of sweet Butter, it’s easy to forget overly sweetened Yams with Marshmallows when roasted Sweet Potatoes and Pineapple come dressed similarly, and the same can be said of Pumpkin Pie in comparison to Bread Pudding only gets better with the addition of Creme Anglaise.
N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone CRAFTkitchen has always gone the extra mile to assure off-site dining is every bit as delicious as inside the Restaurant on South Eastern, and in the era post-COVID 19 it will be that same dedication which draws guests back, reminding diners of what made Jaret and Tami’s place great to begin with.
RECOMMENDED: Everything pictured.
AVOID: N/A.
TIP: Patio or Dine in Reservations Recommended via Yelp! waitlist. Curbside & Delivery Available. Open 7 days, 8am-3pm.
WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.
Open from 11:00am until 9:00pm daily at Suite 110 of 6115 South Fort Apache Road, and Sin City’s best place for Barbecue ever since the Henderson original debuted in January 2016, it was just prior to 11:30am that the smell of Big B’s Texas BBQ began to drift down the hallway, staff quick to arrive for what was once again an overabundance of smoked Meat, Dessert and Sides.
Named after its Pit Master, and changing the long-held belief that Las Vegas is not a Barbeque town ever since the original opened in Henderson, Big B’s Texas BBQ features the work of Brian Buechner and Natalia Badzjo, the husband and wife team taking a hands-on approach to every aspect of the operation from build-out to driving in fresh piles of wood as needed from the Lone Star State.
Available for dine-in, take-out, catering and delivery, all presented by staff clad in PPE, it was really no surprise when Macaroni and Cheese as well as Hot Links were quickly depleted, with slices of gooey Pecan Pie, Banana Pudding and Chocolate Cake soon to follow.
Texas through and through, the aforementioned wood just one reason why Big B’s Brisket and Turkey outpace growing competition, the choice of lean versus moist generally sees the former go first at this office, though thanks to a deeply penetrating ring of smoke both live up to high standards.
Not about to forget Sin City’s best BBQ Beans, or a large Salad requested by some, suffice it to say Rolls were underutilized with several leftover, not because they aren’t good but more so as a result of the abundance of Cornbread that seems to get better and better with time.
Adding on Creamed Corn, plus thick-cut Fried Onions, a second helping of everything proved mandatory, though even for someone with a decidedly large appetite it might be smart to stop a bit short of stuffed next time to avoid wanting an afternoon nap instead of four more hours of work.
N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone it was a disastrous lunch from Famous Dave’s that got the #supportlocal idea going in May of 2018, Big B’s Texas BBQ immediately stepping up and becoming a go-to both then and now with the experience never less than exemplary.
TIP: Now open 11:00am to 9:00pm daily at Suite 110 of 6115 South Fort Apache Road, call (702) 844-8206 for take-out and the city’s best dollar-for-dollar catering value.
WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.
Iron Chef Burger 2.0 – Prosciutto, Onion Jam, Cheddar, Spicy Tots, Ketchup
Pork Meatloaf – Molasses Glaze, Crispy Onions
Rainbow Cauliflower – Garlic, Lemon Juice, Chili Flake
Halibut – Acorn Squash Coulis, Pecan Crumble, White Balsamic
Shootin’ Blanks – Rye Whiskey, Amaretto, Grand Marnier, Limoncello
Coffee
Pineapple Upside Down Buckle – Tart Cherry, Gose Gastrique
Bourbon Fudge Brownie – Brown Butter Bacon Ice Cream
Donut French Toast – Three Rum Caramel, Vanilla Crème Anglaise
Glazed Donut Bread Pudding – Three Rum Caramel, Vanilla Crème Anglaise
Fortunate to have tasted every new plate at Carson Kitchen since summer of 2015, Chefs Harwell, Simon and team forever rethinking even longtime best-sellers, it was with greetings from Director of Operations Rachel Tate that six diners were seated at a familiar table, Sunday at noon seeing every seat occupied within an hour of opening.
Still DTLV’s best Restaurant since its inception, a team of talented servers providing faultless service with the utmost attention to guest safety, it was alongside paired Cocktails that dining began shortly, “Fine, You?” herbal and potent in a manner well suited for crispy Chicken Skins, spicy Shrimp and Bacon Jam bubbling beneath molten Havarti.
Continuing with dueling Salads, “Pickled Pear Panzanella” delivering a refreshing autumnal spin on an Italian Summer favorite while Beet “Tartare” features all the flavors guests have come to love ground and spread across Bread, diners in the know will also make certain not to pass Foie Butter & Jelly with creamy Mousse and Pecan Crumble.
Pouring a “Banana Hammock” for round two, think Tiki drink with a bit of acid finishing smooth, David English’s Bald Aussie casts a wide net anchored by Scotch that stands up well to both new Flatbreads plus hearty Clam Chowder that Scott Simon describes as “Chicago-style” thanks to Hot Sausage bridging Manhattan and New England.
Brining back the Warm Spinach Salad, alongside iconic Rainbow Cauliflower that never takes a break, Cory’s Butter Burger is now on hiatus in favor of Kerry Simon’s version from Iron Chef with Prosciutto and Onion Jam – plus, of course, some Spicy Tots.
Taking a chance with “Shootin’ Blanks’,” the complexity of Amaretto and Grand Marnier atop Rye, Pork Meatloaf is precisely as decadent as one might expect while Halibut kissed by Balsamic arrives tender and flaky atop creamy Squash.
Yet another thorough overhaul, Dessert comprised two day-one stunners and a new idea, the Brownie and Bread Pudding each previously discussed at length while Pineapple Upside Down Buckle sacrifices photogenic-for-delicious and a Coffee Cake texture…though on Sundays it is probably a good idea to also order some deep-fried French Toast Sticks.
FIVE STARS: Innovative since opening, Carson Kitchen’s excellence has seemingly become so expected that locals are prone to overlook it, but with the current menu as good as ever Cory Harwell, Scott Simon, David English, Rachel Tate and Ethan Asch continue to run Downtown Las Vegas’ most important Restaurant.
RECOMMENDED: Banana Hammock, Bald Aussie, Crispy Chicken Skins, Beet Tartare, Foie Butter & Jelly Sando, Clam Chowder, Pork Meatloaf, Halibut, Pineapple Upside Down Buckle, Bourbon Fudge Brownie, Donut French Toast.
AVOID: N/A.
TIP: Full Menu 11:30 to 10pm Mon-Thu and till 11pm Friday as well as Saturday. Brunch is offered 11:00am until 4:00pm on Sundays, with the whole menu also available then and up to closing.
WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.
Sausage & Meatball Parmesan Skillet – Red Sauce, Meatball, Housemade Italian Sausage, Ricotta, Mozzarella, Parmesan
Stuffed Mushrooms – White Button Mushrooms, Naked City Sausage, Mozzarella, Parmesan, Garlic Sauce
Chris’ Special Sub – Marinated Fresh Mozzarella, Provolone, Genoa Salami, Ham, Garlic, Hot Peppers, Tomato, Lettuce, Black Peppercorn Sauce, Toasted Bun
Naked City Pizza – Red Sauce, Pepperoni, Sausage, Onion, Sweet Peppers, Green Olive
Meatlovers Pizza – Red Sauce, Pepperoni, Bacon, Sausage, Meatball, Ham, Salami, Mozzarella
Cheese Pizza – Naked City Red Sauce, Mozzarella
Pepperoni Pizza – Naked City Red Sauce, Mozzarella, Cup n Char Pepperoni
Guinea Pie – White Garlic Sauce, Spinach, Grandma’s Meatballs, Mozzarella Cheese, Ricotta Cheese
Oreo Brookies
Historically the first Restaurant ever tapped to #supportlocal with lunch at the office, and reprising their catering role several times since, it was on Friday that Naked City Pizza delivered from the Blue Diamond Road “Express” location approximately ten minutes away.
The 16th time bringing Christopher and Michael Palmeri’s Pizza Shop off-site, indoor dining now reopened brand-wide, it was minutes prior to 11:30am that Michael arrived with a glut of items, easily enough Food for twice the number of guests with plenty of leftovers for later.
Presenting everything temperature appropriate with PPE to assure customer safety, it was not long before first-shift lunchers called dibs on Slices, Cup n’ Char Pepperoni predictably proving popular atop melted Mozzarella and housemade Sauce with plenty of Herbs, as did Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives famous Guinea Pie featuring White Garlic Sauce and Grandma Palmeri’s Meatballs.
Slinging Sin City’s best Chicken Wings, a few dozen devoured in minutes, Entrees included toasted Subs served alongside Mushrooms stuffed with Sausage and topped with Garlic Cream Sauce, Breadcrumbs and dueling melted Cheeses.
Continuing with hand-cut Fries, still crispy, slices continued to be enjoyed alongside a mixed Sausage and Meatball Skillet while Dessert consisted of housemade Brookies impregnated with Oreos that taste great warm, cold or even two days later.
N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone there is a reason Naked City Pizza has been serving Sin City for over a decade, and so long as Christopher and Michael continue to work as hard as they always have there is little doubt that any order will delight a crowd whether at the Shop or delivered.
Smashed PeeWee Potatoes, Rosemary, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Stuffed Bell Peppers, Beef, Quinoa, Farro, Tomato, Cheddar Cheese, Herbs
Cheesy Dinner Rolls
Chicken Schnitzel, Lemon
The Mocha Chip Muffin
The Fruity Pebbles Treat
The Lemon Blueberry Scone
The Cocoa Pebbles Treat
The Chocolate Chip Cookie
The Pumpkin Spice Cookie
The Banana Flax Cake
The Loving v Virginia Brookie
The Peanut Butter Snickerdoodle
The Chai Spice Cookie
The Strawberry Cookie
The Carrot Cake
Always on the move, both the Restaurant’s physical location and their health-conscious Cuisine, it was for Catering that David and Peter Mozes were again called upon Wednesday, the owners of Bronze Café again offering to prepare a special menu instead of the usual delicious Salads and Sandwiches.
Located near Desert Shores in Summerlin, the former home of Beau Monde Bakery providing turnkey access for a Restaurant now offering Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, it was from Chef Mozes’ home recipes that Lunch consisted of several bowls and trays, Zucchini Salad making fast fans of those who opt to eat light while Dinner Rolls shined thanks to melted Cheese.
Complete with plates and utensils, Bronze Café’s Chicken Schnitzel again crisp and juicy, roasted Potatoes proved enjoyable in their simplicity while stuffed Peppers featured a light but meaty mix and unexpected brightness in each bite.
Happy to receive a glut of Desserts, all Vegan and The Peanut Butter Snickerdoodle still Las Vegas’ best Cookie despite mounting competition, those missing Beau Monde’s gluten-free offerings will be happy to know the Banana Flax Cake is made without any Wheat protein, as too is a fully loaded Carrot Cake that has only gotten better with time.
Continuing strong with the cleverly titled Loving v Virginia, a Brookie that sees both halves nicely textured, Chai Spice Cookies remain soft and almost Cake-like while Pumpkin Spice rounds taste soft and “buttery” crumb despite the lack of Butter, Milk or Eggs.
Rounding out the afternoon with Muffins, Mocha Chip both soft and moist, others delighted in Fruity Pebbles Treats made with Vegan Marshmallows plus Lemon Blueberry Scones and the Strawberry Cookie making a triumphant return.
N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone, no matter where Chef Peter and David are set-up the quality has never declined, lunch on Thursday continuing to show quality and creativity bound to please those with and without dietary restrictions, whether they want to be gluttonous or eat light.
RECOMMENDED: Stuffed Bell Peppers, Chicken Schnitzel, The Peanut Butter Snickerdoodle, The Carrot Cake, The Loving v. Virginia, The Strawberry Cookie.
AVOID: N/A.
TIP: 8a-8p daily at 2380 N Buffalo Drive, Suite 110. 702-852-2830. Online ordering via all the usual apps but catering best coordinated by contacting the Restaurant directly.
WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.
