Endo Edibles

May 9, 2020
11:15 AM
by: Uhockey

Johnny C’s Diner, Las Vegas NV

Johnny C’s Diner

Housemade Dill Pickles, Housemade Bread & Butter Pickles

Housemade Potato Chips

Hand-Cut French Fries

Chef’s Seasonal Market Salad – Garden Greens, Strawberries, Walnuts, Red Wine Drunken Onions, Blue Cheese

Cubano Sandwich – Ham, Roasted Pork, Swiss Cheese, Mayo-Mustard, Housemade Dill Pickles, Pressed Hoagie Roll

Mel’s Mac N Cheese – 5 Cheese, Cheez-It Crust

Thanksgiving Turkey Bob’s Burger – Truffle Mushroom Stuffing, Cheese, Cranberry-Mayo, Toasted Bun

Best Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Local Honey, Brie Cheese, Walnuts, Brioche

Big John’s Philly Sandwich – Swiss Cheese, Red Wine Drunken Onions, Mushrooms, Hoagie Roll

Hen House Sandwich – Fried Chicken, Lettuce, Tomato, Special Sauce, Toasted Bun

Crème Brûlée French Toast – Caramelized Sugar, Mixed Berry Compote, Vanilla Whipped Cream

Anyone familiar with dining around Nevada has likely come across something cooked or created by Johnny Church, and although the idea of opening a Restaurant near Las Vegas Motorcoach Resort amidst a pandemic may seem crazy the Chef’s focus on great products and fundamentals at a fair price are currently precisely what Sin City needs.

Not “fine dining,” though for every great meal at Aureole or Andre’s cooked by Johnny let’s not forget the former Chopped champion also built bangers (literally and figuratively) at Hardway 8 and MTO Café, Johnny C’s focuses on “Food that makes people happy, with the best Ingredients we can find.”

Currently open for take-out from 8:00am until 3:00pm daily, but beginning on-site service May 16th with appropriate social distancing guidelines, Chef Church has incorporated not only former colleagues but local brands in the project, Mothership Coffee just one example while Herbs and Produce frequently come from Johnny’s personal garden.

The latest Strip veteran taking his talents to the community, a space at 8175 Arville Street providing turn-key access when its former owner decided to retire, guests can expect changes to the décor upcoming, but for now a look at the paper menu and row of “Spiceology” Spices already suggests something ‘finer’ about Johnny C’s Diner.

Featuring an open kitchen adjacent vinyl and Formica, all staff working in PPE with great attention to detail, those who know Johnny won’t pass on Chef’s Seasonal Market Salad that currently incorporates backyard Organic Greens, Fruits and Walnuts, nor dueling housemade Pickles previously tasted at his Henderson consultative project.

Delving into heartier plates, the majority Sandwiches served with a choice of Slaw, hand-cut Fries or buttery-crisp Chips, a variety of influences can be seen across Johnny C’s options, “Thanksgiving Turkey Bob’s Burger” clearly riffing on Capriotti’s Bobbie but upgraded by truffled Mushroom Stuffing plus a thick n’ juicy Patty inside a toasted Bun.

Frequently referencing family with items like LJ3 Sliders or the Sunshine Sandwich, “Big John’s Philly” takes a look at Beef, Onions and Mushrooms as offered in Church’s home State of Michigan, and just as this may not be a typical Cheesesteak with Whiz Johnny C’s Cubano is delightfully inauthentic thanks to better-than-average Pickles and subtle Mayo-Mustard that highlights Pork rather than muting it.

Also offering a Fried Chicken Sandwich, the “Hen House” not to be confused with some influencer’s $3.05 #sando as this one contains a sizable Organic Breast cooked golden-crisp and juicy, those seeking things even more comforting need look no further than Mac n’ Cheese with a Cheez-It Crust or Johnny’s “Best Grilled Cheese” with Honey, Brie and Walnuts between slices of Butter-griddled Brioche.

Not forgetting a few sweets, Breakfast offered until 11:00am featuring “Fat Elvis French Toast” while proper Desserts include Church’s family-recipe Orange Creamsicle Cake and Donut Holes, this visit concluded with Crème Brûlée French Toast that travels surprisingly well, tops remaining crunchy and caramelized while mixed Berry Compote and freshly whipped Vanilla Cream add natural sweetness without tasting too sugary.

FIVE STARS: Although such a glowing review may seem premature for a place that hasn’t yet seated a single guest, taken at face value and judged against other Diners it is impossible to suggest Johnny C’s combination of products and talent is anything short of remarkable while the price-point is an undeniable bargain for such quality.

RECOMMENDED: Housemade Potato Chips, Chef’s Seasonal Market Salad, Cubano Sandwich, Best Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Big John’s Philly Sandwich, Crème Brûlée French Toast.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Currently open Monday through Sunday: 8:00am until 3:00pm for Take-Out, look for dine-in starting Saturday and follow @johnnycsdiiner on Social Media for events as well as specials. Call 702-263-0146 for reservations and use convenient online ordering for take-out.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.johnnycsdiner.com

Posted in Breakfast, Dessert, Food, French Toast, Johnny C’s, Johnny C’s Diner, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork, Truffle, Truffles Tagged 5 Cheese, Beef, Berries, Berry, Berry Compote, Best Grilled Cheese, Best Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Big John’s Philly, Big John’s Philly Sandwich, Blackberries, Blackberry, Bleu Cheese, Blue Cheese, Blueberries, Blueberry, Bread, Bread & Butter, Bread & Butter Pickle, Bread & Butter Pickles, Breast, Breasts, Brie, Brie Cheese, Brioche, Brioche Bread, Bun, Buns, Burger, Burgers, Butter, Caramel, Caramelized Sugar, Cheddar, Cheddar Cheese, Cheese, Cheesesteak, Cheesesteak Sandwich, Cheez-It, Cheez-It Cracker, Cheez-It Crackers, Cheez-It Crust, Cheez-Its, Chef’s Salad, Chef’s Seasonal Market Salad, Chef’s Seasonal Salad, Chicken, Chicken Breast, Chicken Breasts, Chickens, Chip, Chips, Cinnamon, Compote, Cow, Cows, Cranberries, Cranberry, Cranberry-Mayo, Cream, Creme, Creme Brulee, Creme Brulee French Toast, Cubano, Cubano Sandwich, Cucumber, Cucumbers, Dessert, Desserts, Dill, Dill Pickle, Dill Pickles, Diner, Drunken Onion, Drunken Onions, endoedibles, feta, Feta Cheese, Food, Foodie, French Fries, French Fry, French Toast, Fried Chicken, Fried Chicken Breast, Fries, Fry, Garden Greens, Goat Cheese, Greens, Grilled Cheese, Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Ham, Hand Cut French Fry, Hand Cut Fries, Hand Cut Fry, Hand-cut French Fries, Hen House, Hen House Sandwich, Hoagie, Hoagie Roll, Honey, Housemade Bread & Butter Pickle, Housemade Bread & Butter Pickles, Housemade Chip, Housemade Chips, Housemade Dill Pickle, Housemade Dill Pickles, Housemade Pickle, Housemade Pickles, Housemade Potato Chip, Housemade Potato Chips, John Church, Johnny Church, Johnny C’s, Johnny C’s Diner, Las Vegas, Lettuce, Local Honey, LV, Mac & Cheese, Mac n' Cheese, Macaroni, Macaroni & Cheese, Macaroni and Cheese, Macaroni Pasta, Market Salad, Mayo, Mayo-Mustard, Mayonnaise, Mel’s Mac N Cheese, Michael Uzmann, Mixed Berries, Mixed Berry, Mixed Berry Compote, Mushroom, Mushroom Stuffing, Mushrooms, mustard, Nevada, NV, Onion, Onions, Pasta, Pastries, Pastry, Pepper, Peppers, Philly, Philly Cheesesteak, Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich, Philly Sandwich, Pickle, Pickles, Pig, Pork, Potato, Potato Chip, Potato Chips, Potatoes, Pressed Hoagie Roll, Pressed Roll, Red Wine, Red Wine Drunken Onion, Red Wine Drunken Onions, Roast Pork, Roasted Pork, Roll, Rolls, Salad, Salads, Sam Brooks, Sandwich, Sandwiches, Sauce, Scott Carson, Sin City, Special Sauce, Spiceology, Strawberries, Strawberry, Stuffing, Sugar, Swiss Cheese, Thanksgiving Turkey Bob, Thanksgiving Turkey Bob’s Burger, Toasted Bun, Tomato, Tomatoes, Truffle, Truffle Mushroom Stuffing, Truffles, Turkey, Turkey Bob, Turkey Burger, Vanilla, Vanilla Whipped Cream, Vegas, Walnut, Walnuts, Whipped Cream, Wine

May 7, 2020
11:15 AM
by: Uhockey

Jainine Jaffer Catering, Las Vegas NV

Jainine Jaffer Catering

Salad

Vegetable Pulao

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Souvlaki Kabobs

Baingan Bharta

Moroccan Koobideh

Paratha

Aloo Chana Saag

Samosa

Laddoo

Seviyan

Although Shiraz had been slow to find its audience inside the old Habib’s space even before COVID-19 closures Chef Jainine Jaffer has been making her way lately via #mealprep services, and having come to trust the Chef through several prior catering gigs a #supportlocal lunch on Thursday once again arrived on time with all the appropriate plates, portions and utensils for a great meal.

Still cooking out of the kitchen at 2575 South Decatur Boulevard, but accepting payment personally via Venmo, PayPal and Zelle, it was at a cost of $15 per staff member that ten individual trays were delivered by 11:15am, Salad with handmade Vinaigrette going over well with those looking to eat light while Saffron Rice with mixed Vegetables also proved popular.

Always on time and never neglecting the essentials, Koobideh Kabobs gone quickly while Chicken Souvlaki lagged behind Chef Jaffer’s Tikka Masala in popularity, those seeking spice found it in pureed Eggplant teaming with Jalapenos and Garlic that tasted good on its own but great atop a piece of buttery Paratha.

Not surprised to see staff leery of Aloo Chana Saag, an unfamiliar dish that assuredly tastes better than it looks, suffice it to say that Samosa are always safe and in this case nicely peppered while both Desserts were traditional and delicious, though Laddoo resembling Donuts predictably received more praise from unadventurous palates than did thin Noodles swimming with Nuts and Raisin in Milk brightened by Cardamom.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone the professionalism exhibited by Chef Jaffer is everything one might hope for, $15 per diner yielding enough Food to feed at least twice as many guests with everything delivered temperature appropriate and delicious as ever.

RECOMMENDED: Chicken Tikka Masala, Baingan Bharta, Moroccan Koobideh, Samosa, Paratha, Seviyan.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Contact Jainine by Social or at 310.612.2945 to discuss.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.facebook.com/jainine.jaffer

instagram: @culinaryqueenj9

Posted in Bread Basket, Catering, Dessert, Food, Jainine Jaffer, Jainine Jaffer Catering, Las Vegas, Nevada Tagged #supportlocal, Aloo, Aloo Chana Saag, Baingan Bharta, Bean, Beans, Beef, Besan, Bread, Butter, Cardamom, Carrot, Carrots, Cashew, Cashews, Catering, Cheese, Chick Pea, Chick Peas, Chicken, Chicken Souvlaki, Chicken Souvlaki Kabob, Chicken Souvlaki Kabobs, Chicken Tikka Masala, Chickens, Chickpea, Chickpeas, Chile de Arbol, Chiles de Arbol, Chili, Chilis, Cilantro, Cinnamon, Coconut, Coconuts, Coriander, Corn, Cow, Cows, Cream, Cucumber, Cucumbers, Cumin, Dessert, Desserts, Eggplant, Eggplants, endoedibles, feta, Feta Cheese, Food, Foodie, Garam Masala, Garbanzo, Garbanzo Bean, Garbanzo Beans, Garbanzos, Garlic, Ghee, Ginger, Goat Cheese, Green Bean, Green Beans, Jainine Jaffer, Jainine Jaffer Catering, Jalapeno, Jalapeno Pepper, Jalapeno Peppers, Jalapenos, Kabob, Kabobs, Koobideh, Laddoo, Lamb, Lambs, Las Vegas, Lemon, Lemons, Lentil, Lentils, Lettuce, Lime, Limes, LV, Masala, Michael Uzmann, Milk, Moroccan Koobideh, Nevada, Noodle, Noodles, Nut, Nuts, NV, Oil, Olive, Olive Oil, Olives, Onion, Onions, Paratha, Paratha Bread, Parsley, Pasta, Pastries, Pastry, Pea, Peas, Pepper, Peppers, Potato, Potatoes, Pulao, Raisin, Raisins, Red Onion, Red Onions, Rice, Saag, Saffron, Saffron Rice, Salad, Salads, Samosa, Samosas, Sauce, Seviyan, Sheep, Shredded Coconut, Shredded Coconuts, Sin City, Spinach, Sugar, Sumac, Tikka Masala, Tomato, Tomatoes, Turmeric, Vanilla, Vegas, Vegetable, Vegetable Pulao, Vegetables, Vermicelli, Vermicelli Pasta, Yogurt

May 7, 2020
9:20 AM
by: Uhockey

Valencian Gold (NY Bagel Menu) [2,] Las Vegas NV

Valencian Gold

Bialy

Knish

Plain Bagel

Everything Bagel

Egg Bagel

Amish Butter

Scallion Cream Cheese

Opting to perform some upgrades even before state pandemic mandates shuttered all on-site dining, Chefs Jeffrey Weiss and Paras Shah spent quarantine making Bagels, many of the rounds from Valencian Gold’s oven finding their way to front-line healthcare workers including office staff located just down Warm Springs.

A project rooted in Jeffrey’s past, and one well-received by Chefs as well as diners, Valencian Gold can be found in the Southwest Marketplace off Rainbow Boulevard, and although returning to “Spanish fast-casual” Cuisine in “Phase One,” the quality and commitment was undeniable.

Launched at 9:00am on April 2nd, and temporarily retired mid-May, it is via time-honored process that Bagels are mixed, formed, proofed, boiled and baked, the “Plain” anything but from its chewy-but-not-overly-dense crumb to a generous golden skin.

Sold for $2.50 each, slightly more expensive than Bagel Café or New York Bagel N Bakery but vastly superior in terms of texture, those seeking added flavor should consider Valencian Gold’s Sesame or Everything, the former packing more seeds per centimeter than would seem possible while “Everything” entails a whole lot of Garlic, Salt and Pepper, plus plenty of Poppy Seeds.

Hand-whipping two styles of Cream Cheese plus Tofu, in addition to other select Jams, Spreads and luxurious Amish Butter, those who like the taste of Scallions should not hesitate to order a double-helping of Chef Shah’s creamy concoction, though in the case of a $3.50 Bialy further Toppings are unnecessary thanks to Caramelized Onions at the center of a Focaccia-soft round.

Adding Lox by popular demand, every Carb-heavy round sold-out daily, another treat came in the form of a Knish with Wonton-crisp Pastry surrounding a dense yet satiny Potato and Onion center at about 33% less than the cost of those at Katz’s or Canter’s.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering or takeout alone, Chefs Shah and Weiss created something unique and delicious with Valencian Gold, and continued to push forward during tough times with a New York Deli Menu that one hopes they’ll find a way to bring back sooner rather than later.

RECOMMENDED: Bialy, Everything Bagel, Knish, Amish Butter, Scallion Cream Cheese.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Look for the return of “Paella for the people” coming soon.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.valenciangold.com

Posted in Breakfast, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Valencian Gold, Valencian Gold NY Bagel Menu Tagged Amish Butter, Bagel, Bagels, Bean, Beans, Bialy, Bialys, Black Pepper, Black Peppers, Bread, Butter, Caramelized Onion, Caramelized Onions, Cheese, Cream, Cream Cheese, Dough, Egg, Egg Bagel, Egg Bagels, Egg Yolk, Egg Yolks, Eggs, endoedibles, Everything Bagel, Everything Bagels, Fennel, Food, Foodie, Garlic, Jeffrey Weiss, Knish, Las Vegas, LV, Michael Uzmann, mustard, Nevada, NV, NY Bagel, NY Bagels, Onion, Onions, Paras Shah, Pastries, Pastry, Pepper, Peppers, Plain Bagel, Plain Bagels, Poppy, Poppy Seed, Poppy Seeds, Potato, Potatoes, Salt, Scallion, Scallion Cream Cheese, Scallions, Seed, Seeds, Sesame, Sesame Seed, Sesame Seeds, Sin City, Stone Ground Mustard, Valencian Gold, Valencian Gold NY Bagel Menu, Vegas, Whipped Cream Cheese, Yolk, Yolks

May 5, 2020
11:20 AM
by: Uhockey

CRAFTkitchen Catering [7,] Henderson NV

CRAFTkitchen Catering

Elotes Dip, Lime Chips

Southwestern Chicken Salad, Green Goddess Dressing

Spanish Rice

Cilantro Lime Black Beans

Three Cheese Enchiladas, Chile Rojo Sauce

Pork Carnitas Enchiladas, Chile Verde Sauce

Cotija, Cilantro, Lime, Sour Cream, Pico de Gallo

Tres Leches Cake

Flan

Kouign Amann

Strawberry Kouign Amann

Gluten Free Raspberry Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin

Almond Croissant

Always happy to #supportlocal with an office favorite, CRAFTkitchen’s re-opening on May 1st offered an opportunity to cater Cinco de Mayo, and just as in the past Chef Jaret Blinn predictably arrived early with all the necessary items for a delicious holiday-themed Lunch.

Previously taking on ethnic themes, this the third time for Mexican, it was largely from CRAFTkitchen’s current take-out menu that eight items were presented, savories starting with housemade Tortilla Chips plus a twist of lime that pair beautifully to creamy Street Corn Dip.

Always well-portioned and fair-priced, a group of twenty-five getting their fill with plenty of leftovers packed to-go, it was alongside these that guests enjoyed Fresh Salad and sides including Spanish Rice, though a tray entitled Cilantro Lime Black Beans was the biggest hit thanks to expected balance despite otherwise bold flavors.

Offering two Entrees, the better Enchilada largely dependent on one’s personal opinion of Tomatillos versus smoky Poblano Pepper “Rojo Sauce,” Dessert continued the theme with Flan and Tres Leches, plus a special gift box including Las Vegas’ best Kouign Amann, an Almond Croissant and a shockingly moist Vegan-Gluten Free Muffin.

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 guests of what made Jaret and Tami’s place great to begin with.

RECOMMENDED: Elotes Dip, Cilantro Lime Black Beans, Three Cheese Enchiladas, Pork Carnitas Enchiladas, Tres Leches Cake, Flan, Kouign Amann, Gluten Free Raspberry Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: See the website for sample catering items or contact the Restaurant directly with a budget and let them do what they do best.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.craftkitchenlv.com

Posted in Catering, CRAFTkitchen, CRAFTkitchen Catering, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, Henderson, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork Tagged #supportlocal, 3 Milk, 3 Milks, 3 Milks Cake, Almond, Almond Croissant, Almond Croissants, Almonds, Bean, Beans, Berries, Berry, Black Bean, Black Beans, Butter, Cake, Cakes, Caramel, Carnitas, Cheese, Cheese Enchilada, Cheese Enchiladas, Chicken, Chicken Salad, Chickens, Chile Rojo, Chile Rojo Sauce, Chile Verde Sauce, Chili, Chili Pepper, Chili Peppers, Chilis, Chip, Chips, Cilantro, Cilantro Lime Black Bean, Cilantro Lime Black Beans, Cinnamon, Confectioner's Sugar, Corn, Cotija, Cotija Cheese, CRAFTKitchen, Cream, Croissant, Croissants, Custard, Dessert, Desserts, Dip, Dressing, Elote, Elote Dip, Elote Dip with Lime Chips, Elotes, Enchilada, Enchiladas, endoedibles, Flan, Flour, Flour Tortilla, Flour Tortillas, Food, Foodie, Frosting, Gluten, Gluten Free, Gluten Free Raspberry Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin, Gluten Free Vegan Raspberry Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin, Gold, Gold Leaf, Green Goddess, Green Goddess Dressing, Icing, Jam, Jaret Blinn, Jelly, Kouign Amann, Las Vegas, Lemon, Lemons, Lettuce, Lime, Lime Chip, Lime Chips, Limes, LV, Mayo, Mayonnaise, Michael Uzmann, Muffin, Muffins, Nevada, NV, Onion, Onions, Pastries, Pastry, Pepper, Peppers, Pico de Gallo, Pig, Poblano, Poblano Pepper, Poblano Peppers, Poblanos, Poppy, Poppy Seed, Poppy Seeds, Pork, Pork Carnitas Enchilada, Pork Carnitas Enchiladas, Preserves, Raspberries, Raspberry, Raspberry Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin, Raspberry Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins, Rice, Roasted Tomatillo, Roasted Tomatillos, Rojo Sauce, Salads, Sauce, Seed, Seeds, Sin City, Sour Cream, Southwestern Chicken Salad, Spanish Rice, Strawberries, Strawberry, Strawberry Jam, Strawberry Jelly, Strawberry Kouign Amann, Strawberry Preserves, Sugar, Tami Blinn, Three Cheese Enchilada, Three Cheese Enchiladas, Three Milks, Three Milks Cake, Tomatillo, Tomatillos, Tomato, Tomatoes, Tortilla, Tortilla Chip, Tortilla Chips, Tortillas, Tres Leches, Tres Leches Cake, Tres Leches Cakes, Vanilla, Vegan, Vegan Muffin, Vegan Muffins, Vegan Raspberry Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin, Vegas

May 2, 2020
11:30 AM
by: Uhockey

Lamaii, Las Vegas NV

Lamaii

White Rice

Tom Kah Gai – Chicken Coconut Milk Soup, Galangal, Mushroom

Kao Soi – Braised Beef in Northern Curry / Thin egg Noodles

Duck Basil Fried Rice – Roasted Duck, Jasmine Rice, Black Garlic Basil Sauce

Pad Thai – Stirred Fried Small Rice Noodles, Chicken, Egg, Green Onion, Bean Sprouts

Som Tum – Shredded Green Papaya Salad, Thai Chili, Lime Juice, Fish Sauce

Garlic Green Beans – Stirred Fried Green Beans, Garlic Sauce (served without Crispy Pork Bits by request)

Gai Him – Crispy Chicken Cubes, Roasted Cashews, Onions, Peppers

Drunken Noodles – Steak, Stirred Fried Wide Rice Noodles, Basil Leaves, Young Peppercorn

Many will remember Bank Atcharawan from his Sommelier days at Lotus of Siam, or later cooking at Chada Thai & Wine and Chada Street, but in early 2019 the restaurateur behind The Patio Desserts & Drinks made a return to his roots with Lamaii.

Having departed both Chadas in early 2018, the Restaurants soon to shutter with both spaces since reconcepted, Lamaii seeks to elevate classic Thai Food through pairings and packaging, Atcharawan’s love of Wine a frequent topic on social media while Lamaii’s décor features a blend of gold, grey and wood that is undeniably chic.

Unfortunately not visited prior to COVID-19 closures, but now available for take-out beginning at 11:00am daily, it was in celebration of a septuagenarian’s birthday that eight dishes were ordered, Bank assisting with dietary restrictions prohibiting Pork and Shellfish that only required the omission of crispy Bacon from Garlic Green Beans.

Translated as “delicately,” a word some may not associate with Thai Cuisine, Lamaii’s menu runs the gamut from “Small Plates” to Soups, Mains and Dessert, the Pad Thai a top-notch iteration with tender Noodles, crisp Bean Sprouts and just enough sweetness to tame a bold combination of Onions and Fish Sauce.

Requesting modest spice levels, the Papaya Salad nonetheless a bit too heated for one diner but a vibrant palate-refresher for others, those seeking spice will likely be fond of Tom Kah Gai teaming with Ginger and Mushrooms while Atcharawan’s Kao Soi sees Beef utilized instead of more traditional Chicken for an expected increase in richness.

Finding Rice better suited for the Curry than the Noodles from which it apparently takes its name, another Beef-based highlight is Lamaii’s “Drunken Noodles” featuring Basil and ground Peppercorns, the $20 pricetag easily justified by what is easily six ounces of tender Steak.

Also offering Duck with the Rice Noodles, but instead opting for crispy-skinned Fowl amidst Jasmine Rice, Black Garlic and Basil, it was on Atcharawan’s recommendation that “Cashew Chicken” rounded out the order, a dish called Gai Him masterfully balancing taste and texture with broad appeal even for those who many not typically gravitate to Thai.

FOUR AND A HALF STARS: Likely suffering slightly from take-out, considering Lamaii’s obvious focus on aesthetics, it is via well-culled menu that executes well across-the-board that Bank Atcharawan again proves highly capable of satisfying diners both familiar and novice with the Cuisine of Thailand.

RECOMMENDED: Tom Kah Gai, Kao Soi, Duck Basil Fried Rice, Gai Him, Drunken Noodles.

AVOID: Garlic Green Beans were requested with Pork on the side. None was included.

TIP: During current COVID-19 precautions business hours are 11:00am – 7:00pm for take-out and delivery. Delivery is offered within a 5 mile radius by calling 702-238-0567.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.lamaiilv.com

Posted in Food, Lamaii, Las Vegas, Nevada Tagged Bank Atcharawan, Basil, Basil Fried Rice, Basil Leaf, Basil Leaves, Basil Sauce, Bean, Bean Sprout, Bean Sprouts, Beans, Beef, Bell Pepper, Bell Peppers, Black Garlic, Black Garlic Basil Sauce, Braised Beef, Braised Beef in Northern Curry, Brown Sugar, Cashew, Cashews, Chicken, Chicken Coconut Milk Soup, Chicken Cube, Chicken Cubes, Chickens, Chili, Chili Pepper, Chili Peppers, Chilis, Coconut, Coconut Milk, Coconuts, Cow, Cows, Crispy Chicken Cube, Crispy Chicken Cubes, Curry, Drunken Noodle, Drunken Noodles, Duck, Duck Basil Fried Rice, Egg, Egg Noodle, Egg Noodles, Egg Yolk, Egg Yolks, Eggs, endoedibles, Fish, Fish Sauce, Food, Foodie, Fowl, Fried Rice, Gai Him, Galangal, Garlic, Garlic Green Beans, Garlic Sauce, Ginger, Green Bean, Green Beans, Green Onion, Green Onions, Green Papaya, Green Papaya Salad, Green Papayas, Jasmine Rice, Juice, Kao Soi, Las Vegas, Leaf, Leaves, Lime, Lime Juice, Limes, LV, Michael Uzmann, Milk, Mushroom, Mushrooms, Nevada, Noodle, Noodles, Northern Curry, NV, Onion, Onions, Pad Thai, Papaya, Papaya Salad, Papayas, Pasta, Pepper, Peppercorn, Peppercorns, Peppers, Red Onion, Red Onions, Rice, Rice Noodle, Rice Noodles, Roast Duck, Roasted Cashew, Roasted Cashews, Roasted Duck, Salad, Salads, Sauce, Shredded Green Papaya, Shredded Green Papaya Salad, Shredded Green Papayas, Sin City, Small Rice Noodle, Small Rice Noodles, Som Tum, Soup, Sprout, sprouts, Steak, Stirred Fried Green Bean, Stirred Fried Green Beans, Stirred Fried Small Rice Noodle, Stirred Fried Small Rice Noodles, Stirred Fried Wide Rice Noodle, Stirred Fried Wide Rice Noodles, Sugar, Thai, Thai Chili, Thai Chili Pepper, Thai Chili Peppers, Thai Chilis, Thin egg Noodle, Thin egg Noodles, Tom Kah Gai, Tomato, Tomatoes, Vegas, White Rice, Wide Rice Noodle, Wide Rice Noodles, Yolk, Yolks, Young Peppercorn, Young Peppercorns

April 30, 2020
11:20 AM
by: Uhockey

Cubanidad 1885 Catering [2,] Las Vegas NV

Cubanidad 1885

Minced Ham and Bechamel Croquette

Chicken Croquette

Cod Fish Croquette

Cuban Rice and Beans Arroz Congri

Sweet Plantain Maduros

Fried Plantain Tostones

The Ybor Original Sandwich – Glazed Ham, Roasted Pork, Genoa Salami, Swiss Cheese, Homemade Mustard Sauce, Cuban Bread

Medianoche Sandwich – Smoked Ham, Roasted Pork, Swiss Cheese, Homemade Mustard Sauce, Sweet Egg Dough Bread

Ham and Cheese Empanada

Ropa Vieja and Plantain Empanada

Spinach and Cheese Empanada

Beef and Olive Empanada

Sweet Coconut Pastelito

Guava and Cheese Pastelito

Tres Leches Cake

Homemade Flan

Now inhabiting the block south of Spring Mountain Road on Fort Apache since just before Memorial Day 2019, it was based on the strength of a recent take-out order that #supportlocal lunch was ordered from Cubanidad 1885, e-mails answered in a timely manner by Mark Snyder making catering for twenty-five simple while the portions that arrived were probably better suited for a group of forty.

Dubbed “the Ybor Original,” locations in Tampa Bay as well as Miami highly regarded for the Cuisine of Chef Dennis Martinez Miranda, it was by one of the Restaurant’s own staff that several trays were delivered at a cost of $25, opting to skip Uber Eats and DoorDash saving Cubanidad 1885 upwards of $100 in fees.

Packing everything in temperature-controlled containers, a fifteen minute drive to the office finding everything but Desserts and Sauces piping hot, it was with items unpacked that staff explored flavors novel yet familiar, several Hispanics quick to praise Empanadas packed with a variety of Filings such as Beef with Olives or Minced Ham and Cheese.

A locally-owned import, Chef Miranda’s Cuban upbringing and professional training in Venezuela followed by Miami yielding products with big flavors as well as proper technique, it is great fortune for fans of Brandade, Baccala or even “Fish Sticks” that Cubanidad’s Coquettes match the quality of those seen throughout southern Florida, the fried Plantains equally oil-free with just a touch of Salt while “Maduros” are tender and amply sweet.

Opting against roast Meats this time, but happy to tuck-into Pork or Chicken Croquettes, it was alongside mixed Beans and Rice that one Cuban employee deemed Cubanidad 1885’s Medianoche “as good as back home,” though The Ybor Original also found its audience in those who preferred their Sandwich more savory.

Not about to skip Dessert, housemade Flan darkened by nearly-burnt Sugar stunning at such a low cost, Tres Leches has improved since visit one thanks to thicker Frosting and more Ciinnamon while Pastelitos in two flavors eat light, flakey and better than those at any local Panaderia thanks to Butter-laminated Pastry nearly bursting with sweetened Coconut or Guava Jam and Cream Cheese.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone, Cubanidad puts on a very impressive display in terms of customer service and preparedness while the product served far outperforms the modest price point.

RECOMMENDED: Cod Fish Croquette, Minced Ham and Bechamel Croquette, Tostones, Maduros, Ham and Cheese Empanada, Ropa Vieja and Plantain Empanada, Medianoche Sandwich, Flan, Guava and Cheese Pastelitio.

AVOID: Catering Order came without plates or serving utensils, a small detail but something to keep in mind.

TIP: Online Ordering available through all the usual suspects, but calling or e-mailing directly saves the Restaurant a lot of money and comes with free delivery within 5 miles for orders over $25.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.cubanidad1885.com

Posted in Catering, Cubanidad, Cubanidad 1885, Cubanidad 1885 Catering, Cubanidad Catering, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork Tagged 3 Milk, 3 Milks, 3 Milks Cake, Arroz, Arroz Congri, Bean, Beans, Bechamel, Béchamel Sauce, Beef, Beef and Olive Empanada, Beef and Olive Empanadas, Bread, Brioche, Brioche Bread, Butter, Cake, Cakes, Caramel, Catering, Cheese, Chicken, Chicken Croquetta, Chicken Croquettas, Chicken Croquette, Chicken Croquettes, Chickens, Cilantro, Cinnamon, Coconut, Coconuts, Cod, Cod Fish, Cod Fish Croquetta, Cod Fish Croquettas, Cod Fish Croquette, Cod Fish Croquettes, Cow, Cows, Cream, Cream Cheese, Croquetta, Croquettas, Croquette, Croquettes, Cuban Bread, Cuban Rice, Cuban Rice and Beans, Cuban Rice and Beans Arroz Congri, Cuban Salsa, Cuban Salsa Tomato Escabeche, Cuban Sandwich, Cubanidad, Cubanidad 1885, Cubanidad 1885 Catering, Cubanidad Catering, Custard, Dennis Martinez Miranda, Dennis Miranda, Dessert, Desserts, Dough, Egg Bread, Egg Dough, Egg Dough Bread, Empanada, Empanadas, endoedibles, Escabeche, Fish, Flan, Food, Foodie, Fried Plantain, Fried Plantain Tostone, Fried Plantain Tostones, Fried Plantains, Frosting, Garlic, Garlic Cilantro Sauce, Genoa Salami, Glaze, Glazed Ham, Guava, Guava and Cheese Pastelito, Guava and Cheese Pastelitos, Guava Jam, Guava Jelly, Ham, Ham and Cheese Empanada, Ham and Cheese Empanadas, Homemade Flan, Homemade Mustard Sauce, Icing, Jam, Jelly, Las Vegas, LV, Maduros, Mark Snyder, Medianoche, Medianoche Sandwich, Michael Uzmann, Midnight Cuban, Midnight Cuban Sandwich, Milk, Minced Ham, Minced Ham and Bechamel Croquetta, Minced Ham and Bechamel Croquettas, Minced Ham and Bechamel Croquette, Minced Ham and Bechamel Croquettes, mustard, Mustard Sauce, Nevada, NV, Olive, Olives, Onion, Onions, Pastelito, Pastelitos, Pastries, Pastry, Pepper, Peppers, Pickle, Pickles, Pig, Plantain, Plantains, Pork, Rice, Roast Pork, Roasted Pork, Ropa Vieja, Ropa Vieja and Plantain Empanada, Ropa Vieja and Plantain Empanadas, Ropa Vieja Cubana, Rub, Salami, Salsa, Salt Cod, Sandwich, Sandwiches, Sauce, Sauce Bechamel, Shredded Beef, Shredded Beef Ropa Vieja Cubana, Shredded Coconut, Shredded Coconuts, Sin City, Smoked Ham, Spinach, Spinach and Cheese Empanada, Spinach and Cheese Empanadas, Sugar, Sweet Coconut, Sweet Coconut Pastelito, Sweet Coconut Pastelitos, Sweet Egg Dough Bread, Sweet Plantain, Sweet Plantain Maduros, Swiss Cheese, The Ybor Original, The Ybor Original Sandwich, Three Milks, Three Milks Cake, Tomato, Tomato Escabeche, Tomatoes, Tostone, Tostones, Tres Leches, Tres Leches Cake, Vegas, White Rice

April 28, 2020
7:30 AM
by: Uhockey

Rosallie Catering [6,] Las Vegas NV

Rosallie Le French Café

Quiche Lorraine – Hardwood Smoked Honey Cured Bacon, Savory Custard

Salade Fraiche – Strawberry, Candied Walnuts, Feta Cheese, Lemon Vinaigrette

Chevre Chaud Salad – Spring Salad, Goat Cheese in Puff Pastry

House Salad

Prosciutto, Saucisson, Paris Ham, Brie Cheese, Reblochon Cheese, Fresh Goat Cheese, Feta Cheese, Homemade Fig Jam, Apples, Cornichons, Olives

Housemade Brioche

Croque Rosallie – Paris Ham, Sweet Onion Bechamel, Mozzarella Cheese, Croissant

Brioche French Toast – Housemade Strawberry Puree, Pure Maple Syrup, Vanilla Cream

Organic Apple Pie

Madeline

Marble Cake Madeline

Pain au Raisin

Butter Croissant

Black Cherry Almond Pie with Caramel and Brown Butter Streusel

Crème Brulee

Nutella Almond Tarte

Raspberry Almond Tarte

Walnut Tarte

Pear Tarte

Almond Croissant

Blueberry Bostock

Nutella Almond Croissant

Cherry Custard with Pastry Cream Danish

Almond Raspberry Croissant

Cinnamon Roll with Frosting

Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tarte

Lemon Tarte with Raspberry Jam

Crunch Chocolate House

Now Las Vegas’ top choice for French Pastry for nearly five years, the re-opening of Rosallie amidst COVID-19 precautions provided a perfect opportunity for catering, and much as prior a #supportlocal breakfast on Tuesday saw Christophe put together an outstanding spread of items both sweet and savory.

Easily arranged through owner Jonathan Pluvinet via ‘Le French Café’s’ e-mail, a budget of $15 per guest yielding enough quality cuisine to feed twice the office’s number of staff, it was by 7:30am that all items were delivered and carefully arranged, Quiche still warm as were several Pastries.

Also serving Salad and Sandwiches, six Croque Rosallie disappearing before second shift even knew they existed, suffice it to say that Christophe’s Brioche proves equally exquisite wrapped around Bacon, Egg and Cheese as it does topped in housemade Preserves, each bite saturated in buttery Custard beneath a surface cooked golden as French Toast.

Happy to see some Cheese and Charcuterie, an ideal accoutrement to Rosallie’s world-class Walnut Tarte or fresh-baked loaves of Bread, it was after a plate with plenty of Pickles and Fig Jam that Pastries took center stage, Jonathan’s Almond Croissant that is better than most in Paris an obvious choice, as too is the version upgraded with Raspberries.

Enjoying one more slice of Brioche, Bostock with housemade Almond Paste and Blueberries baked-in, new Viennoiseries have joined Rosallie’s collection in the form of a Cherry Danish with Custard plus Pastry Cream while the Pie with Black Cherries, Caramel and Brown Butter Streusel is also a must.

Also now offering Crème Brulee, complete with crackling Sugar and a slight-bitter finish akin to what one finds in Europe, additional Desserts include Lemon Custard with a ribbon of Raspberry, or a Dark Chocolate version that would pair beautifully with Coffee or a glass of Wine.

Striding towards Summer with additional Fruit Danishes, but not forgetting Apple Pie, Linzer Tarte or a Cinnamon Roll that takes the American favorite in an entirely new direction by making it light and airy via laminated Dough, both varieties of Madeline seem more dialed-in than ever while the oddly named “Crunch Chocolate House” may be Las Vegas’ current best available flourless slice of Cake.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone Rosallie remains Las Vegas’ premier French Bakery, and having now re-opened for take-out both Jonathan and Christophe’s continuous commitment to quality and customer service sees the “new normal” as delicious as ever.

RECOMMENDED: Brioche French Toast, Almond Croissant, Walnut Tarte, Black Cherry Almond Pie, Croque Rosallie, Blueberry Bostock, Crunch Chocolate House, Cherry Custard with Pastry Cream Danish, Almond Raspberry Croissant, Cinnamon Roll.

AVOID: N/A

TIP: Currently 7a-2p daily. Call or e-mail Info@rosallie.com ahead for pre-orders or catering and consider Yelp! (Grubhub) on-line delivery for smaller orders if you can’t make it to the store.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.rosallie.com

Posted in Bread Basket, Breakfast, Catering, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, French Toast, Las Vegas, Madeline, Madelines, Nevada, Pork, Rosallie, Rosallie 'Le French Cafe', Rosallie Catering, Rosallie Le French Café Catering, Rosallie Le French Cafe Catering Tagged #supportlocal, 100% Maple Syrup, 100% Pure Maple Syrup, Almond, Almond Croissant, Almond Croissants, Almond Pie, Almond Raspberry Croissant, Almond Raspberry Croissants, Almonds, Apple, Apple Pie, Apple Pies, Apples, Bacon, Béchamel Sauce, Black Cherries, Black Cherry, Black Cherry Almond Pie, Black Cherry Almond Pie with Caramel and Brown Butter Streusel, Blueberries, Blueberry, Blueberry Bostock, Blueberry Brioche, Bostock, Bread, Brie, Brie Cheese, Brioche, Brioche Bostock, Brioche Bread, Brioche French Toast, Brioche Toast, Brown Butter, Brown Butter Streusel, Butter, Butter Croissant, Butter Croissants, Cake, Cakes, Candied Pecan, Candied Pecans, Candied Walnut, Candied Walnuts, Caramel, Carrot, Carrots, Cheese, Cherries, Cherry, Cherry Custard with Pastry Cream Danish, Cherry Custard with Pastry Cream Danishes, Chevre, Chevre Chaud Salad, Chevre Cheese, Chip, Chips, Chocolate, Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Cakes, Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Chips, Chocolate-Hazelnut, Cinnamon, Cinnamon Roll, Cinnamon Roll with Cream Cheese Frosting, Cinnamon Roll with Cream Cheese Icing, Cinnamon Roll with Frosting, Cinnamon Roll with Icing, Cinnamon Rolls, Confectioner's Sugar, Cornichon, Cornichons, Cream, Cream Cheese, Cream Cheese Frosting, Cream Cheese Icing, Creme Brulee, Croissant, Croissants, Croquant, Croque, Croque Monsieur, Croque Rosallie, Crunch Chocolate House, Cucumber, Cucumbers, Custard, Custard Danish, Custard Danishes, Danish, Danishes, Dark Chocolate, Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tarte, Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tartes, Dessert, Desserts, Egg, Egg Yolk, Egg Yolks, Eggs, endoedibles, feta, Feta Cheese, Feuilletine, Fig, Fig Jam, Fig Jelly, Fig Preserves, Figs, Food, Foodie, French Brie Cheese, French Saucisson, French Toast, Fresh Goat Cheese, Frosting, Goat Cheese, Goat Cheese in Puff Pastry, Ham, Hardwood Smoked Bacon, Hardwood Smoked Honey Cured Bacon, Homemade Fig Jam, Honey Bacon, Honey Cured Bacon, Housemade Brioche, Housemade Brioche Bread, Housemade Strawberry Puree, Icing, Italian Prosciutto, Jam, Jelly, Jonathan Pluvinet, Las Vegas, Lemon Tarte, Lemon Tarte with Raspberry Jam, Lemon Tartes, Lemon Vinaigrette, Lemons, Lettuce, Linzer, Linzer Tarte, Linzer Tartes, LV, Madeline, Madelines, Maple, Maple Syrup, Marble Cake, Marble Cake Madeline, Marble Cake Madelines, Michael Uzmann, Mozzarella, Mozzarella Cheese, Nevada, Nutella Almond Croissant, Nutella Almond Croissants, Nutella Almond Tarte, Nutella Almond Tartes, NV, Olive, Olives, Onion, Onions, Organic Apple Pie, Organic Apple Pies, Pain, Pain au Raisin, Paris Ham, Pastries, Pastry, Pastry Cream, Pear, Pear Pie, Pear Tarte, Pear Tartes, Pears, Pecan, Pecans, Pickle, Pickles, Pie, Pies, Pig, Pork, Preserves, Prosciutto, Puff Pastry, Pure Maple Syrup, Puree, Quiche, Quiche Lorraine, Raisin, Raisins, Raspberries, Raspberry, Raspberry Almond Croissant, Raspberry Almond Croissants, Raspberry Almond Tarte, Raspberry Almond Tartes, Raspberry Jam, Raspberry Jelly, Raspberry Preserves, Reblochon, Reblochon Cheese, Red Onion, Red Onions, Roll, Rolls, Rosallie, Rosallie Le French Cafe, Salad, Salade Fraiche, Salads, Sandwich, Sandwiches, Sauce, Saucisson, Saucisson Sec, Savory Custard, Sin City, Smoked Bacon, Smoked Honey Cured Bacon, Spring Salad, Strawberries, Strawberry, Strawberry Puree, Streusel, Sugar, Sweet Onion, Sweet Onion Bechamel, Sweet Onions, Syrup, Tart, Tarte, Tartes, Tarts, Toast, Tomato, Tomatoes, Vanilla, Vegas, Viennesoire, Viennesoires, Viennoiserie, Viennoiseries, Walnut, Walnut Tart, Walnut Tarte, Walnut Tartes, Walnut Tarts, Walnuts, Yolk, Yolks

April 25, 2020
11:20 AM
by: Uhockey

Mama Bird Southern Kitchen [2,] Las Vegas NV

Mama Bird Southern Kitchen

Everything Biscuits, Honey Butter

Sausage Gravy

Mac N Cheese

Sweet Cream Corn

White Cheddar Grits

Pimento Cheese

Smoked and Breaded Chicken Wings, Cowboy Candy BBQ Sauce, Sweet Heat Maple + Butter Sauce

Boneless Fried Chicken Breasts, Boneless Fried Chicken Thighs

Cornmeal Waffles, Honey Butter, Maple Syrup

Serving Southern Highlands since Summer of 2018 the current pandemic finds Mama Bird Southern Kitchen pivoting to take-out like many, but doing so with great attention to detail and added safety measures that go above and beyond what other independent operators have deemed ‘appropriate.’

Located at 10550 Southern Highlands Parkway, an area not far from owner Robert Chiti’s own home, it is at 9:00am daily that Pit Master Zachary Substanley and his team open up shop, the menu largely unchanged from an eary-2019 visit but still offering lots of variety at a great value.

Less “Instagramable” with chairs on tables and staff wearing PPE, a “safety first” approach appreciated considering the influx of UberEats and DoorDash drivers, it was via in-house Toast ordering system that a large order was placed through Zach – who also functions as GM – with all items ready for 11:00am pickup on Saturday.

No less than a 20-minute drive from home, careful packaging assuring everything remained temperature appropriate, it was with all items unpacked that eight friends assembled plates while practicing social distancing, an octet of “Everything Biscuits” originally not included delivered free of charge with a $10 gift card added as an apology for any inconvenience.

The sort of Food that comes with a mandatory “Y’all,” most of it classic Southern Cuisine save for the boldly-flavored Biscuits and a few photogenic mash-ups, it was beneath two spoonfuls of Country Gravy that a Buttermilk round became a meal in itself, though a slathering of Honey Butter or chunky Pimento Cheese seems hardly less indulgent.

Speaking of sides, large orders of Mac N Cheese, Sweet Cream Corn and White Cheddar Grits still piping hot and “cheffed up” via toppings such as Crackers or Scallions, only Cornmeal Waffles seemed to suffer at all from transport, though that was remedied by 30-seconds in the toaster which quickly saw the Cornmeal become crisp and ready for a drizzle of Syrup.

Opting against BBQ this time, but instead three-dozen assorted pieces of Fried Chicken, Mama Bird’s Boneless Fried Breasts and Thighs each benefit from adequate brining and Spices in the Batter, but for those seeking the Restaurant’s boldest bite it is hard to ignore smoked and battered Wings that are plump, juicy and tender even before a dip in one of four housemade Sauces.

FOUR AND A HALF STARS: With no marketing budget outside of Social Media Mama Bird has survived nearly two-years on quality Cuisine and customer service, the former coming at fair prices while the other has become even more important (and evident) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RECOMMENDED: Pimento Cheese, White Cheddar Grits, Sweet Cream Corn, Everything Biscuit, Smoked and Breaded Chicken Wings.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Delivery available via multiple sources including Postmates and GrubHub, but offering 10% off for curbside or carryout ordered directly from the Restaurant or via Website.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.mamabirdsk.com

Posted in Bread Basket, Breakfast, Food, Las Vegas, Mama Bird, Mama Bird Southern Kitchen, Nevada, Pork, Waffle, Waffles Tagged Barbecue, Barbecue Sauce, Barbeque, Barbeque Sauce, BBQ, BBQ Sauce, Biscuit, Biscuits, Boneless Fried Chicken Breast, Boneless Fried Chicken Breasts, Boneless Fried Chicken Thigh, Boneless Fried Chicken Thighs, Bread, Breaded Chicken Wing, Breaded Chicken Wings, Breast, Breasts, Butter, Buttermilk, Cayenne, Cayenne Pepper, Cayenne Peppers, Cheddar, Cheddar Cheese, Cheese, Chicken, Chicken Breast, Chicken Breasts, Chicken Thigh, Chicken Thighs, Chicken Wing, Chicken Wings, Chickens, Chive, Chives, Corn, Cornmeal, Cornmeal Waffle, Cornmeal Waffles, Cowboy Candy, Cowboy Candy BBQ Sauce, Cracker, Crackers, Cream, Cream Corn, Dill, Dill Ranch Dip, Dip, Dressing, endoedibles, Everything Biscuit, Everything Biscuits, Food, Foodie, Fried Chicken, Fried Chicken Breast, Fried Chicken Breasts, Fried Chicken Thigh, Fried Chicken Thighs, Garlic, Gravy, Grits, Honey, Honey Butter, Las Vegas, LV, Mac & Cheese, Mac and Cheese, Mac n' Cheese, Macaroni, Macaroni & Cheese, Macaroni and Cheese, Mama Bird, Mama Bird Southern Kitchen, Maple, Maple + Butter Sauce, Maple Syrup, Michael Uzmann, Nevada, Noodle, Noodles, NV, Onion, Onions, Pepper, Peppers, Pimento, Pimento Cheese, Pork Sausage, Ranch, Ranch Dressing, Robert Chiti, Saltine, Saltine Cracker, Saltine Crackers, Saltines, Sauce, Sausage, Sausage Gravy, Scallion, Scallions, Seed, Seeds, Sesame, Sesame Seed, Sesame Seeds, Sin City, Smoked and Breaded Chicken Wing, Smoked and Breaded Chicken Wings, Smoked Chicken Wing, Smoked Chicken Wings, Sweet Cream Corn, Sweet Heat Maple + Butter Sauce, Syrup, Thigh, Thighs, Vegas, Waffle, Waffles, White Cheddar, White Cheddar Cheese, White Cheddar Grits, Wing, Wings, Zach Substanley, Zachary Substanley

April 23, 2020
11:35 AM
by: Uhockey

Metro Pizza Catering [4,] Las Vegas NV

Metro Pizza Catering

Chopped Italian Salad with Ranch Dressing and Italian Dressing

86th Street Square Pie – Mozzarella Cheese, Tomato Sauce, Romano Cheese, Olive Oil, Old School Pepperoni

Brooklyn Jr – Mozzarella Cheese, Tomato Sauce, Romano Cheese, Olive Oil

Zamboni Pizza – Sausage, Old School Pepperoni, Roasted Red Peppers, Mike’s Hot Honey, Mozzarella Cheese

Pepperoni Pizza – Mozzarella Cheese, Tomato Sauce, Pepperoni

Old New York – Thick Sliced Mozzarella Cheese, Italian Tomato Sauce, Basil

Triple Play – Thin Crust, Mozzarella, Tomato Sauce, Triple-Portion Chicago Sausage

Meatball Sliders – Melted Provolone, Fresh-Baked Garlic Knots

Mini Cannoli – Ricotta, Confectioner’s Sugar, Chocolate Chips

Serving Las Vegas for nearly forty years one might well assume Metro Pizza has the delivery game down to a science, and even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic John Arena and Sam Facchini’s Pizzeria remains irreproachable in terms of customer service.

Featuring locations North, South, East and West, with John’s wife currently reprising her former role as catering maestro, it was minutes past 11:30am that delivery arrived porting Food, utensils, plates and condiments, each carefully packaged such that Salad and Sweets were chilled with everything else piping-hot.

Suitable for almost any budget, though late-2019 changes have created a more concise menu, it was focused on old favorites plus a few previously un-tasted options that six Pies plus Knots, Salad and Dessert were received for under $15 per guest, the all-inclusive cost predictably yielding enough for all plus an assortment of leftovers.

Now the eleventh time delivering to this office, in addition to a dozen or more visits to locations on Decatur, Horizon Ridge or Sky Pointe, it was beginning with Salad that many once again praised Metro’s duo of housemade Dressings, though those more concerned with eating while Food was still temperature appropriate predictably went straight for familiar Pepperoni or the “Zamboni” Pizza complete with two Meats, Roasted Peppers and a generous drizzle of Mike’s Hot Honey.

Moving next to Meatballs, the combination of Pork and Beef with almost no binder sandwiched between fresh-baked Garlic Buns, it was a little surprising that staff largely passed on Metro’s Old New York given its classic composition, though the square-cut “Triple Play” beneath a mountain of Sausage stood no chance and was gone fast.

Not about to pass by 86th Street, the cold-fermented Sicilian remaining defiantly light despite its thickness even after traveling ten miles, the offering of “Brooklyn Jr.” allowed those who inexplicably “don’t like” Pepperoni to also get their fill while piped-to-order Cannoli stood ready for those who still had room for Dessert.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone there is a reason John and Sam have been successfully serving Las Vegas for so long, a good part of it skill and doing things the right way, but also by focusing on the customer to deliver on their promises no matter how big or small the budget.

RECOMMENDED: 86th Street Square Pie, Meatball Sliders, Zamboni, Old New York, Chopped Salad, Cannoli.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: The central catering office is currently closed during the pandemic, but by calling any Metro Pizza location they can direct guests as necessary.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.metropizza.com

Posted in Catering, Dessert, Food, Italian, Las Vegas, Metro Pizza, Metro Pizza Catering, Metro Pizza Centennial, Metro Pizza Green Valley, Metro Pizza Henderson, Metro Pizza on Decatur, Metro Pizza on Horizon Ridge, Metro Pizza on Horizon Ridge Parkway, Nevada, Pizza, Pork Tagged #supportlocal, 86th Street, 86th Street Pie, 86th Street Pizza, 86th Street Square Pie, 86th Street Square Pizza, 86th Street Square Sicilian, All Beef Meatball, All Beef Meatballs, Basil, Beef, Beef Meatball, Beef Meatballs, Bread, Brooklyn Jr, Brooklyn Jr Pizza, Butter, Cannoli, Cheese, Cheese Pizza, Chicago Sausage, Chip, Chips, Chocolate, Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Chips, Chopped Italian Salad, Chopped Salad, Chris Decker, Cocoa, Cocoa Powder, Confectioner's Sugar, Cookie, Cookies, Cow, Cows, Cream, Crouton, Croutons, Crust, Cucumber, Cucumbers, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, Dressing, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, Fresh-Baked Garlic Knot, Fresh-Baked Garlic Knots, Garlic, Garlic Knot, Garlic Knots, Hand Made Meatball, Hand Made Meatballs, Handmade Meatball, Handmade Meatballs, Honey, Hot Honey, Italian Dressing, Italian Salad, Italian Sausage, Italian Tomato Sauce, John Arena, Knot, Knots, Las Vegas, Lettuce, LV, Mascarpone, Mascarpone Cheese, Meatball, Meatball Slider, Meatball Sliders, Meatballs, Melted Provolone, Melted Provolone Cheese, Metro, Metro Pizza, Metro Pizza Catering, Metro Pizza Decatur, Metro Pizza on Decatur, Metro-style Square Pie, Michael Uzmann, Mike’s Hot Honey, Mini Cannoli, Mozzarella, Mozzarella Cheese, Nevada, NV, Oil, Old New York, Old New York Pizza, Old School Pepperoni, Olive, Olive Oil, Olives, Onion, Onions, Pastries, Pastry, Pepper, Pepperoni, Pepperoni Pizza, Pepperoni Sicilian Pizza, Pepperoni Sicilian Slice, Peppers, Pie, Pies, Pig, Pizza, Pork, Pork Sausage, Provolone, Provolone Cheese, Ranch, Ranch Dressing, Red Pepper, Red Peppers, Ricotta, Ricotta Cheese, Roasted Red Pepper, Roasted Red Peppers, Romano, Romano Cheese, Salad, Salads, Sam Facchini, Sauce, Sausage, Sicilian, Sicilian Cheese Pie with Pepperoni, Sicilian Cheese Pizza with Pepperoni, Sicilian Pie, Sicilian Pizza, Sicilian Slice, Sin City, Slider, Sliders, Sugar, Thick Sliced Mozzarella, Thick Sliced Mozzarella Cheese, Thin Crust, Tomato, Tomato Sauce, Tomatoes, Triple Play, Triple Play Pizza, Triple-Portion Chicago Sausage, Vanilla, Vegas, Zamboni, Zamboni Pie, Zamboni Pizza

April 21, 2020
11:25 AM
by: Uhockey

Graffiti Bao Catering [4,] Las Vegas NV

Graffiti Bao

White Rice

Scallion Pancakes – Special Soy, Scallion Dressing

Burrata – Scallion Pancakes, Garlic Chili Sauce

Crispy Wings – Secret Seven Chili Rub

Sweet Sesame Beef – Chinese Broccoli, Honey, Sesame Seeds

Szechuan Chicken – Toasted Chilis, Black Bean, Chili Oil

Royale with Cheese Bao Buns – Angus Beef, Cheese, Pickles, Onions, Special Sauce

Szechuan Beef Bao Buns – Angus Beef, Szechuan, Scallions

BBQ Pork Bao Buns – Sweet Soy, Chilis, Shiitake Mushrooms

Vietnamese Crab Fried Rice – Lump Crab, Thai Basil, Mint, Lime, Fish Sauce

Lo Mein – Roast Pork, Celery, Mushrooms, Bean Sprouts, Red Pepper

Nutella Bao

Started as a counter-service concept inside T-Mobile Arena, Graffiti Bao has been making itself known to Southwest Las Vegas since September 2019, the opportunity to cater Marc Marrone’s Food in February going over so well with staff that delivery from 7355 South Buffalo Drive was requested again just two-weeks later, three weeks after that and again on Tuesday.

Previously discussing Chef Marrone’s background here, time with Tao Group unequivocally involved in Asian Cuisine capable of satisfying both discerning diners and folks that typically gravitate to Panda Express, it was on-time that Marc and another Graffiti Bao Chef arrived with everything necessary, professionalism and safety never in question.

Opting for favorites from the first three gigs, in addition to new items from a list that offers far more diversity than its brevity suggests, Crab Rice was predictably the first stop for many, and although the funky Fish Sauce and restrained heat were once again highly praised Graffiti Bao’s Sweet Sesame Beef went just as quickly with the entire tray gone by the end of lunch.

Opting for Szechuan Chicken this time, instead of Kung Pao, the quality of Graffiti Bao’s sourcing shows well from Protein to Produce, three styles of the Restaurant’s eponymous Buns satisfying diners on this day with the BBQ Pork a favorite for many but the Pulp Fiction referencing Royale with Cheese also pretty tough not to love.

Neglecting White Rice to save stomach capacity for better things, at least three whole Scallion Pancakes devoured including one order alongside Burrata and Garlic Chili Sauce, Lo Mein won out over Basil Chow Fun this time while a first time order of Marrone’s Crispy Wings with a numbing sort of heat was welcomed by all who partook.

Finishing with Dessert Bao, or perhaps another Szechuan Beef Bun dipped in Bao Sauce plus more Scallion Pancakes, it was with nearly half the staff packing leftovers that the afternoon passed quickly while trying to decide exactly how many weeks to let pass before catering from Graffiti Bao again.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone, Graffiti Bao sets a very high standard in terms of customer service, while all ten items were nicely presented, displaying “Fusion” without being compromised and appealing to everyone from Indian to Asian to Hispanic to Vietnamese at a range of income levels and travel experiences.

RECOMMENDED: Scallion Pancakes (even better with Burrata,) Royale with Cheese Bao Buns, BBQ Pork Bao Buns, Sweet Sesame Beef, Szechuan Beef Bao Buns, Lo Mein.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Southwest location is open: Monday through Saturday from 11:00am to 9:30pm and Sunday from 11:00am to 9:00pm. Follow @GraffitiBao for specials including Industry discounts and community support projects during the pandemic.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.graffitibao.com

Posted in Catering, Crab, Dessert, Food, Graffiti Bao, Graffiti Bao Catering, Graffiti Bao Southwest, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork Tagged #supportlocal, American Cheese, Angus, Angus Beef, Bao, Bao Bun, Bao Buns, Barbecue Pork, Barbeque Pork, BBQ Pork, BBQ Pork Bao, BBQ Pork Bao Bun, BBQ Pork Bao Buns, Bean, Bean Sprout, Bean Sprouts, Beans, Beef, Beef + Broccoli, Beef and Broccoli, Bell Pepper, Bell Peppers, Black Bean, Black Beans, Bread, Broccoli, Bun, Buns, Burger, Burgers, Burrata, Burrata Cheese, Catering, Celery, Cheddar, Cheddar Cheese, Cheese, Cheeseburger, Cheeseburgers, Chicken, Chicken Wing, Chicken Wings, Chickens, Chili, Chili Oil, Chili Pepper, Chili Peppers, Chili Sauce, Chilis, Chinese Broccoli, Chocolate, Chocolate Hazelnut Spread, Chocolate-Hazelnut, Chow Fun, Cow, Cows, Crab, Crab Fried Rice, Crabs, Crispy Garlic, Crispy Wing, Crispy Wings, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, Dressing, endoedibles, Fish Sauce, Food, Foodie, Fried Rice, Garlic, Garlic Chili Sauce, Garlic Sauce, Graffiti Bao, Graffiti Bao Catering, Graffiti Bao Southwest, Hamburger, Hamburgers, Hazelnut, Hazelnuts, Honey, Las Vegas, Lime, Limes, Lo Mein, Lump Crab, LV, Marc Marrone, Michael Uzmann, Mint, Mints, Mushroom, Mushrooms, Nevada, Noodle, Noodles, Nutella, Nutella Bao, Nutella Bao Bun, Nutella Bao Buns, NV, Oil, Onion, Onions, Pancake, Pancakes, Pastries, Pastry, Pepper, Peppers, Pickle, Pickles, Red Onion, Red Onions, Red Pepper, Red Peppers, Rice, Roast Pork, Roasted Pork, Royale with Cheese, Royale with Cheese Bao, Royale with Cheese Bao Bun, Royale with Cheese Bao Buns, Royale with Cheese Bun, Royale with Cheese Buns, Sauce, Scallion, Scallion Dressing, Scallion Pancake, Scallion Pancakes, Scallions, Secret Seven Chili Rub, Seed, Seeds, Sesame, Sesame Beef, Sesame Seed, Sesame Seeds, Shiitakes, Sin City, Soy, Soy Sauce, Special Sauce, Special Soy, Special Soy Sauce, Spread, Sprout, sprouts, Sugar, Sweet Sesame Beef, Sweet Soy, Sweet Soy Sauce, Szechuan, Szechuan Beef, Szechuan Beef Bao, Szechuan Beef Bao Bun, Szechuan Beef Bao Buns, Szechuan Chicken, Toasted Chili, Toasted Chili Pepper, Toasted Chili Peppers, Toasted Chilis, Todd Lunger, Vegas, Vegetable, Vietnamese Crab Fried Rice, White Rice, Wing, Wings

April 18, 2020
11:30 AM
by: Uhockey

Meraki Greek Grill [3,] Las Vegas NV

Meraki Greek Grill

Yia Yia’s Dolmadakia – Stuffed Grape Leaves, Rice, Herbs, Lemon

Greek Salad – Romaine Lettuce, Tomato, Red Onion, Cucumber, Feta Cheese, Kalamata Olives, Pepperoncini, Greek Vinaigrette

Hummus – Garbanzo Beans, Tahini, Lemon

Falafel – Chickpea Fritters, Herbs

Greek Rice

French Fries

Chicken Kalamakia

Pita

Gyro – Carved Beef/Lamb Mix

Mama’s Rice Pudding – Bourbon Vanilla, Cinnamon

Baklava – Phyllo, Walnuts, Honey

Recently celebrating three years serving Las Vegas, former Estiatorio Milos employee Nikos Georgousis and Girair ‘Jerry’ Goumroian of Henderson’s The Great Greek essentially rescuing the plaza on Rainbow at Tropicana in early 2017, it was amidst COVID-19 precautions that take-out was ordered and unlike a previous to-go experience Meraki Greek Grill was completely on-point this time.

Nothing less than an Off-Strip sensation since opening its doors, and pivoting nicely to off-site dining during the pandemic, it is from a truncated menu including two “Family Feasts” that diners are currently invited to choose, prices downright affordable and in some cases making one wonder how the Restaurant is even making a profit.

Defined as “doing something with soul, creativity and love,” a spirit embodied by courteous employees and staff of Superstar Chef Michael Mina who are currently using Meraki as a point of distribution for family meal to out of work colleagues, it took no longer than five minutes to collect an order placed by e-mail, clerks going the extra mile to assist by carrying bags to the car while clad in PPE.

Exiting the tiled blue space and traveling just five minutes to home, Onions, Garlic and Herbs perfuming the air, it was not long before all items were unpacked and ready for sharing, Hummus an immediate highlight in terms of taste and texture while three orders of Falafel delivered a dozen crisp and oilless nuggets lightly perfumed by Onions and Parsley.

Generously portioned, some added Pita and aforementioned Falafel alongside a Feast and Dessert enough to sate seven, those who think they do not “like” Grape Leaves may see their minds changed by Yia Yia’s Dolmadakia, while Meraki’s Greek Salad fares better than most as a result of fresh Vegetables and plenty of Feta Cheese.

Finding the Salad’s Vinaigrette well-suited to both Fritters and French Fries, the latter arguably Sin City’s best even after transport in a Styrofoam clamshell, it was only too little Tzatziki that compromised built-to-preference Gyro, the Beef and Lamb mix shaved thin but still juicy with a bold Herbs.

Taking a small bit of Chicken, but leaving both the grilled Bird and aromatic Rice for those who specifically requested them, Dessert consisted of Rice Pudding and Baklava, the former easily one of the best in Las Vegas for staying simple and being served at room temperature while crisp layers of Phyllo alternating with Walnuts and Honey is texturally splendid and predictably sweet.

FOUR AND A HALF STARS: Budget friendly, fresh and well-crafted with staff currently making all the right choices in terms of customer safety, Meraki remains Las Vegas’ premier off-Strip spot for Mediterranean cuisine.

RECOMMENDED: Hummus, Tzatziki, French Fries, Gyro, Chicken Kalamaki, Baklava, Rice Pudding, Ravani.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Open 11-9 Tuesday through Saturday and until 8pm on Sunday. Menu currently shortened amidst the pandemic but accurate per the website. Follow on Social Media @merakigreeklv

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.merakigreekgrill.com

Posted in Bread Basket, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Meraki, Meraki Greek, Meraki Greek Grill, Nevada Tagged Baklava, Beef, Bourbon, Bourbon Vanilla, Bread, Carved Beef, Carved Beef/Lamb Mix, Carved Lamb, Cheese, Chick Pea, Chick Peas, Chicken, Chicken Kalamakia, Chickens, Chickpea, Chickpea Fritter, Chickpea Fritters, Chickpeas, Cinnamon, Cow, Cows, Cucumber, Cucumbers, Dessert, Desserts, Dill, Dolmadakia, Dolmadakias, endoedibles, Falafal, Falafel, feta, Feta Cheese, Food, Foodie, French Fries, French Fry, Fresh Herbs, Fries, Fritter, Fritters, Fry, Garbanzo Bean, Garbanzo Beans, Garlic, Girair Goumroian, Girair ‘Jerry’ Goumroian, Grape Leaf, Grape Leaves, Greek, Greek Rice, Greek Salad, Greek Spices, Greek Vinaigrette, Greens, Grilled Chicken, gyro, Herb, Herbs, Honey, Hummus, Jerry Goumroian, Kalamakia, Kalamata, Kalamata Olive, Kalamata Olives, Kalamatas, Lamb, Lambs, Las Vegas, Lemon, Lemons, Lettuce, LV, Mama’s Rice Pudding, Meat, Meraki, Meraki Greek, Meraki Greek Grill, Michael Uzmann, Nevada, Nikos Georgousis, NV, Oil, Olive, Olive Oil, Olives, Onion, Onions, Parsley, Paste, Pastries, Pastry, Pepperoncini, Pepperoncinis, Phyllo, Pita, Pita Bread, Pudding, Red Onion, Red Onions, Rice, Rice Pudding, Romaine, Romaine Lettuce, Salad, Salads, Seed, Seeds, Sesame, Sesame Paste, Sesame Seed, Sesame Seeds, Sheep, Sin City, South Rainbow, Stuffed Grape Leaf, Stuffed Grape Leaves, Tahini, Tomato, Tomatoes, Tzatziki, Vanilla, Vegas, Vinaigrette, Walnut, Walnuts, Warm Pita, Yia Yia’s Dolmadakia, Yogurt

April 16, 2020
11:30 AM
by: Uhockey

Naked City Pizza Catering [4,] Las Vegas NV

Naked City Pizza Catering

Guinea Pie Full Sheet – White Garlic Sauce, Spinach, Grandma’s Meatballs, Mozzarella Cheese, Ricotta Cheese

Pepperoni Pizza Full Sheet – Naked City Red Sauce, Mozzarella Cheese, Cup n Char Pepperoni

Buffalo Chicken-Bacon Mac n’ Cheese – Elbow Macaroni, Cheddar, Mozzarella, Bleu, Buffalo Wings, Bacon

Fried Cauliflower – Fried Cauliflower, Shaved Asparagus, Roasted Vegetable Sauce, Shaved Pecorino-Romano

Gnocchi Gratin – Potato Gnocchi, Gorgonzola Dolce, Cream, Bread Crumbs, Fresh Herbs

Buffalo 22 Half Sheet – White Sauce, Mozzarella, Cup n Char Pepperoni, House Italian Sausage, Crispy Garlic, Hot Honey, Roasted Garlic Crust

Back Home Half Sheet – Red Sauce & Mozzarella Cheese Mixed Together, Cup n Char Pepperoni, House Italian Sausage, Parmesan Cheese, Roasted Garlic Crust

Naked Salad – Iceburg Lettuce, Spinach, Marinated Tomato, Roasted Sweet Peppers, Onion, Mozzarella, Ranch Dressing on the Side, House Vinaigrette on the Side

Chocolate Cheesecake

Officially the first Restaurant ever utilized to #supportlocal, and reprising their catering role several times since, it was on Thursday that Naked City Pizza once again put on a show with classics and novelties alike.

The fifth time bringing Christopher and Michael Palmeri’s Pizza Shop off-site, visits to one of their four locations currently off-limits amidst COVID-19 restrictions, it was minutes prior to 11:30am that a pair of longtime employees arrived with nine items, easily enough Food for forty with plenty of leftovers.

Not exactly a short distance to travel, yet 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.

Changing up Sin City’s best Chicken Wings as part of family meals offered during the pandemic, here serving spicy bits of Meat amidst Macaroni, Cheddar, Mozzarella and Bacon, another heaping portion of Pasta arrived with tender Potato Dumplings in a bloomy Bleu Sauce restrained by Cream, Herbs and Breadcrumbs.

Lightening the load with a big Salad and housemade Dressing, Naked City’s Ranch predictably becoming dipping Sauce for the Crust of many, fans of Cauliflower should not overlook Palmeri’s “fried” version that comes un-breaded and tender with great depth of flavor.

Not about to skip Naked City’s “Back Home Pie,” the blend of Sauce and Cheese creating a unique texture complimented by housemade Sausage plus crispy Pepperoni, those seeking something sweet were happy to see Chocolate Cheesecake recently offered as part of the family meals, though personally the Hot Honey atop a Buffalo 22 Half Sheet was an equally enjoyable way to finish lunch with a bit of Sugar.

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 nearly 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.

RECOMMENDED: Guinea Pie, Buffalo 22 Pie, Back Home Pie, Fried Cauliflower, Gnocchi Gratin.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: wwww.nakedcitylv.com/catering for large parties, and follow @ncpslv for specials such as the bargain family packs.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.nakedcitylv.com

Posted in Catering, Dessert, Food, Gnocchi, Italian, Las Vegas, Naked City, Naked City Catering, Naked City Pizza, Naked City Pizza Catering, Naked City Pizza on Arville, Naked City Pizza on Paradise, Nevada, Pizza, Pork Tagged #supportlocal, Asparagus, Back Home, Back Home Half Sheet, Back Home Pie, Back Home Pie Pizza, Back Home Pizza, Bacon, Basil, Beef, Beef and Pork Meatball, Beef and Pork Meatballs, Beef Meatball, Beef Meatballs, Bell Pepper, Bell Peppers, Bleu, Bleu Cheese, Blue Cheese, Bread, Bread Crumb, Bread Crumbs, Breadcrumb, Breadcrumbs, Buffalo 22, Buffalo 22 Half Sheet, Buffalo 22 Pie, Buffalo 22 Pizza, Buffalo Chicken, Buffalo Chicken Mac n’ Cheese, Buffalo Chicken-Bacon Mac n’ Cheese, Buffalo Wing, Buffalo Wings, Butter, Catering, Cauliflower, Cheddar, Cheddar Cheese, Cheese, Cheese Cake, Cheesecake, Chicken, Chicken Leg, Chicken Legs, Chicken Wing, Chicken Wings, Chickens, Chocolate, Chocolate Cheese cake, Chocolate Cheesecake, Chris Palmeri, Christopher Palmeri, Cocoa, Cookie, Cookies, Cow, Cows, Cream, Cream Cheese, Crispy Garlic, Crust, Cup n Char, Cup n’ Char Pepperoni, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, Dill, Dressing, Dumpling, Dumplings, Elbow Macaroni, Elbow Macaroni Pasta, endoedibles, Food, Foodie, Fresh Basil, Fresh Herb, Fresh Herbs, Fried Cauliflower, Garlic, Garlic Bun, Garlic Buns, Garlic Crust, Garlic Knot, Garlic Knots, Garlic Sauce, Gnocchi, Gnocchi Gratin, Gorgonzola, Gorgonzola Cheese, Gorgonzola Dolce, Gorgonzola Dolce Cheese, Grandma Palmeri's Meatball, Grandma Palmeri's Meatballs, Grandma’s Meatball, Grandma’s Meatballs, Gratin, Guinea Pie, Guinea Pie Full Sheet, Guinea Pie Pizza, Ham, Herb, Herbs, Honey, Hot Honey, Hot Italian Sausage, Hot Sausage, House Italian Sausage, House Vinaigrette, Housemade Sausage, Iceburg Lettuce, Italian Sausage, Las Vegas, Leg, Legs, Lemon, Lemons, Lettuce, LV, Mac & Cheese, Mac n' Cheese, Macaroni, Macaroni & Cheese, Macaroni and Cheese, Macaroni Pasta, Marinated Tomato, Marinated Tomatoes, Meatball, Meatballs, Michael Palmeri, Michael Uzmann, Mozzarella, Mozzarella Cheese, Naked City, Naked City Catering, Naked City Las Vegas, Naked City Marinara, Naked City Pizza, Naked City Pizza Catering, Naked City Red Sauce, Naked City Tomato Sauce, Naked Salad, Nevada, NV, Onion, Onions, Oreo, Oreo Cookie, Oreo Cookie Crust, Oreo Cookies, Oreos, Palmeri, Parmesan, Parmesan Cheese, Pasta, Pastries, Pastry, Pecorino, Pecorino Cheese, Pecorino Romano, Pecorino Romano Cheese, Pepper, Pepperoni, Pepperoni Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza Full Sheet, Peppers, Pig, Pizza, Pork, Pork Meatball, Pork Meatballs, Potato, Potato Gnocchi, Potatoes, Ranch, Ranch Dressing, Red Sauce, Red Sauce & Mozzarella Cheese Mixed Together, Red Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese Mixed Together, Ricotta, Ricotta Cheese, Roasted Bell Pepper, Roasted Bell Peppers, Roasted Garlic, Roasted Garlic Crust, Roasted Sweet Pepper, Roasted Sweet Peppers, Roasted Vegetable, Roasted Vegetable Sauce, Roasted Vegetables, Romano Cheese, Salad, Salads, Salami, Salumi, Sauce, Sausage, Sausages, Shaved Asparagus, Shaved Pecorino-Romano, Shaved Pecorino-Romano Cheese, Sin City, Spinach, Sugar, Sweet Pepper, Sweet Peppers, The Naked City Pizza Shop, The Rebel Pie, The Rebel Pie Pizza, The Rebel Pizza, Tomato, Tomato Sauce, Tomatoes, Vanilla, Vegas, Vegetable, Vegetables, Vinaigrette, White Chocolate, White Garlic, White Garlic Sauce, White Sauce, Wing, Wings

April 16, 2020
7:45 AM
by: Uhockey

Mg Patisserie & Café by Michael Gillet, Las Vegas NV

Mg Patisserie & Café by Michael Gillet

Leek Parmesan Viennoiserie

Spinach Feta Viennoiserie

Nutella Croissant

Chocolate Twist

Original Croissant

Cherry and Greek Yogurt Viennoiserie

Apple Turnover

Rice Pudding

Pain aux Raisins

Pain au Chocolat

Cinnamon Roll

Cheesecake

Pistachio Opera Cake

Matcha Mango Roll Cake

Located at 6365 South Rainbow Boulevard, inside the former Peridot Sweets’ adjacent Starbucks, Mg Patisserie & Café features the talents of Pastry Chef and Owner Michael Gillet, a former Michelin Star recipient with nearly three decades of experience.

Established in June of 2019, a mostly turnkey transition from Tiffany Jones’ well-liked bakeshop, it was in short-order that a line of Cupcakes, Cookies and Muffins transitioned to Viennoiserie and Dessert, prices from $4-8 a veritable bargain considering Chef Gillet’s pedigree and the largely one-man production of nearly two dozen varieties each day.

Currently take-out only amidst COVID-19 restrictions, hours from 10am until 2pm daily seeing the Burgundy-born owner function as Chef, secretary and server, it was via e-mail that a large order was arranged 24-hours early, the decision to chill several Pastries and serve them with re-warming instructions certainly not ideal but more a matter of necessity.

Appearing cozy from the outside, and professing the use of “organic and sustainable Ingredients whenever possible” it was after a five minute drive from store to office that twenty-five items were unboxed and photographed, a significant amount of careful sharing allowing employees a chance to sample items both sweet and savory.

Not benefitted by an oven inside a medical center, and thus making do with a microwave or simply allowing items to achieve room temperature, first bites included two Vegetarian-friendly Danishes, cooked Leeks with Parmesan outperforming Spinach Feta though golden Dough surrounding each unfortunately suffered a bit of sog thanks to storage and temperature change.

Accounting for allergies and restrictions, including Vegan Croissants and Gluten-free Focaccia in recent weeks, it was without such encumbrances that a Nutella Croissant showed well-developed structure and plenty of rise, the “Original” Croissant visually less-so but described as “pretty good” by those who partook.

A “dream” per Gillet, his path from a town of eighty to Sin City making stops in New York at Le Cirque, Chicago at The Peninsula and LA where he worked with Jose Andres inside SLS, it is following stints at Caesars as well as Red Rock that Mg Patisserie’s Desserts embrace diversity, the Rice Pudding gussied up by Puffed Rice, Caramel and Cream while a springy Matcha Mango Roll looks and tastes like something one might see at a sweets parlor in Chinatown.

Jumping back to Viennoiserie, the lamination of Michael’s Cherry and Greek Yogurt parcel holding up better than the savory Danishes, suffice it to say that Pain aux Raisins is a classic in every sense of the word while Cinnamon Rolls weigh less than a quarter of those at Cinnabon without lacking any of the flavor thanks to a significant degree of leavening.

Finishing with two more Desserts, including a Pistachio Opera sweetened by Milk Chocolate and balancing a delicate Macaron, there may be no more delicate Cheesecake in town than Chef Gillet’s, a crustless specimen little different in consistency from those served in Europe that finds a touch of a Sugar and Cinnamon from the crumbles on top.

THREE AND A HALF STARS: A graduate of CFA Marzy Pastry School in France, Michael Gillet spent nearly two decades preparing elegant Desserts at some of America’s top hotels before striking out on his own in 2019, the results of time with Caesars, Red Rock, The Peninsula and Ritz-Carlton evident in items such as airy Cheesecake, decadent Rice Pudding and innovative Cherry-Greek Yogurt Viennoiserie.

RECOMMENDED: Cherry and Greek Yogurt Viennoiserie, Pain aux Raisins, Rice Pudding, Cheesecake.

AVOID: Spinach Feta Viennoiserie and Original Croissant were both compromised by rewarming.

TIP: Currently take-out and curbside pick-up only, 10:00am until 2:00pm daily. Follow @mgpatisserieandcafe for specials.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.mgpatisserie.com

Posted in Breakfast, Croissant, Croissants, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Macaron, Macaroon, Mg Patisserie, Mg Patisserie & Café, Mg Patisserie & Cafe, Mg Patisserie & Café by Michael Gillet, Nevada, Peridot Sweets Tagged Apple, Apple Turnover, Apple Turnovers, Apples, Bread, Butter, Butter Croissant, Butter Croissants, Cake, Cakes, Caramel, Cheese, Cheese Cake, Cheesecake, Cherries, Cherry, Cherry and Greek Yogurt Danish, Cherry and Greek Yogurt Viennoiserie, Chocolate, Chocolate Hazelnut Croissant, Chocolate Hazelnut Croissants, Chocolate Hazelnut Spread, Chocolate Twist, Chocolate-Hazelnut, Chocolatine, Cinnamon, Cinnamon Roll, Cinnamon Rolls, Cookie, Cookies, Cracker, Crackers, Cream, Croissant, Croissants, Crumble, Crumbles, Custard, Danish, Danishes, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, endoedibles, feta, Feta Cheese, Food, Foodie, Frosting, Graham, Graham Cracker, Graham Cracker Crumble, Graham Crackers, Grahams, Greek Yogurt, Green Tea, Guava, Hazelnut, Hazelnuts, Icing, Las Vegas, Leek, Leek Parmesan Danish, Leek Parmesan Viennoiserie, Leeks, LV, Macaron, Macarons, Mango, Mango Cream, Mango Mousse, Mangoes, Mangos, Matcha, Matcha Cake, Matcha Mango Roll, Matcha Mango Roll Cake, Matcha Powder, Matcha Sponge Cake, Mg Patisserie, Mg Patisserie & Café, Mg Patisserie & Café by Michael Gillet, Michael Gillet, Michael Uzmann, Milk Chocolate, Mousse, Nevada, Nutella, Nutella Croissant, Nutella Croissants, NV, Opera, Original Croissant, Original Croissants, Pain, Pain au Chocolat, Pain aux Chocolat, Pain aux Raisin, Pain aux Raisins, Parmesan, Parmesan Cheese, Pastries, Pastry, Pistachio, Pistachio Cream, Pistachio Macaron, Pistachio Macarons, Pistachio Opera Cake, Pistachio Opera. Opera Cake, Pistachios, Pudding, Puffed Rice, Raisin, Raisins, Rice, Rice Pudding, Roll, Roll Cake, Roll Cakes, Rolls, Sin City, Spinach, Spinach Feta Danish, Spinach Feta Viennoiserie, Sponge Cake, Sugar, Tea, Turnover, Turnovers, Twist, Vanilla, Vegas, Viennoiserie, Viennoiseries, Whipped Cream, Yogurt

April 14, 2020
11:20 AM
by: Uhockey

Big B’s Texas BBQ Catering [6,] Las Vegas NV

Big B’s Texas BBQ Catering

Lean Brisket, Fatty Brisket

Pulled Pork, Beef Hot Links, Smoked Turkey Breast

Mac & Cheese

Cream Corn

BBQ Beans

Corn Bread

Housemade Banana Pudding

Still 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 January 2016, it was ten minutes prior to lunch 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, housemade Dessert and Sides.

Already an office favorite, and even more convenient since owners Brian Buechner and Natalia Badzjo took over the former Andre’s Bistro & Bar, guests this Tuesday found familiar favorites hot and fresh, the inclusion of all necessary plates, utensils and serviceware a given just as has always been the case.

Currently take-out only and working with a skeleton crew, COVID-19 precautions seeing all employees clad in PPE, it was really no surprise when Macaroni and Cheese as well as Hot Links were quickly depleted with Brian’s handmade Banana Pudding soon to follow.

Texas through and through, wood driven up from the Lone Star State just one reason why Big B’s Brisket and Turkey outpace growing competition, additional Meat included Pulled Pork that seemed extra moist compared to the past, particularly after a splash of Big B’s subtly sweet BBQ Sauce.

Not about to forget Sin City’s best BBQ Beans or Creamed Corn, the latter a little runny on this day but still delicious, 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.

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.

RECOMMENDED: Fatty Brisket, Hot Links, Smoked Turkey, Cornbread Creamed Corn, BBQ Beans, Banana Pudding.

AVOID: N/A.

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.

www.bigbztexasbbq.com

Posted in Big B’s, Big B’s Texas BBQ, Big B’s Texas BBQ 2, Big B’s Texas BBQ Catering, Bread Basket, Catering, Cornbread, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork Tagged Banana, Banana Pudding, Bananas, Barbecue, Barbecue Sauce, Barbeque, Barbeque Sauce, BBQ, BBQ Bean, BBQ Beans, BBQ Sauce, Bean, Beans, Beef, Beef Brisket, Beef Hot Link, Beef Hot Links, Big B's, Big B's Texas BBQ, Big B’s Texas BBQ 2, Bread, Breast, Breasts, Brian Buechner, Brisket, Butter, Cheddar, Cheddar Cheese, Cheese, Cookie, Cookies, Corn, Corn Bread, Cornbread, Cow, Cows, Cream, Cream Corn, Creamed Corn, Dessert, Desserts, endoedibles, Fatty Beef Brisket, Fatty Brisket, Food, Foodie, Hot Link, Hot Links, Housemade Banana Pudding, Ice Cream, Iced Tea, Jalapeno, Jalapeno Pepper, Jalapeno Peppers, Jalapenos, Las Vegas, Lean Beef Brisket, Lean Brisket, LV, Mac & Cheese, Mac and Cheese, Macaroni, Macaroni & Cheese, Macaroni and Cheese, Macaroni Pasta, Michael Uzmann, Natalia Badzjo, Nevada, Nilla Wafer, Nilla Wafers, NV, Onion, Onions, Pasta, Pastries, Pastry, Pecans, Pepper, Peppers, Pickle, Pickles, Pig, Pork, Pudding, Pulled Pork, Salt, Sauce, Sausage, Sin City, Smoked Pork, Smoked Turkey, Smoked Turkey Breast, Sugar, Turkey, Turkey Breast, Turkey Breasts, Vanilla Wafer, Vanilla Wafer Cookie, Vanilla Wafer Cookies, Vanilla Wafers, Vegas, Wafer, Wafers

April 11, 2020
12:15 PM
by: Uhockey

TRES Cazuelas, Las Vegas NV

TRES Cazuelas

Tortillas

Spanish Rice

Patatas Bravas – Poblano Aioli, Parsley

Roasted Corn Off The Cob “Esquites” – Cilantro, Lime, Chipotle Aioli, Queso

Fettuccine & Braised Short Rib – Mushroom, Parmesan Sauce

Pollo En Mole Poblano – Pasilla-Chocolate Mole “Poblano,” Sesame Seed

Bistec Con Elote En Salsa Tatemada – Beef, Roasted Corn, Tatemada Sauce

Chicken Chilaquiles – Chicken, Guajillo Chilaquiles, Crema, Queso Fresco

They say failure to prepare is preparing to fail, and although Angelo Reyes’ TRES Cazuelas has gotten its fair share of accolades since opening a Saturday take-out order during COVID-19 restrictions sputtered and stalled in almost every manner imaginable.

Located at the corner of Spring Mountain Road and Polaris Avenue for just over a year, and self-described as serving “Artisanal Latin Cuisine,” it is inside homey confines that the former Marché Bacchus General Manager offers family recipes with a broad range of influences, Mexican making up the majority but also inclusive of traditional Spanish and a bit of Basque.

Currently Take-out and delivery only, a failure of anyone answering phone calls during updated business hours necessitating an e-mail to inquire about offerings and portion sizes, it was redirected to Reyes’ cellular phone that questions were answered followed by suggestions, the Fettuccine strongly encouraged and eventually added despite its failure to fit TRES Cazuelas concept.

Placing an order less than six hours later via ChowNow, as requested by ownership given the streamlined zero-fee format that accepts payment by credit card, confirmation was received instantly with Visa charge pending, a second e-mail from ChowNow telling of their brand and benefit to restaurants also appearing under Gmail’s “Promotions” tab.

Noticing minor discrepancies between the ChowNow menu and that on TRES Cazuelas website, it was three days later that an e-mail arrived early-morning to confirm the order would be ready at 11:30am, arrival at 11:25 finding nothing ready and Angelo standing idly while one kid cooked in the kitchen without PPE.

Clearly not expecting a walk-in despite open doors adjacent Sand Dollar Lounge, “I thought your order was 12:30″ followed by a steady stream of excuses, it was without gloves or mask that Reyes hopped on the line claiming everything “will be ready in 20 minutes,” in reality 43 during which conversation was heard including how many extra Tortillas should be included to make up for issues.

Suggested in various reviews to hand-make both Chips and soft Corn Tortillas, the former likely and admittedly excellent with a trio of toppings, suffice it to say that the latter was neither Corn nor made on-site, though lightly warmed in a pan and fine as a delivery mechanism for dishes such as “Bistec Con Elote En Salsa Tatemada” featuring bits of Steak and smoky Salsa with Corn.

Next taking liberties with traditional plates, the Esquites decent but likely better with fresh Corn, it seems hard to believe that anyone with familiarity will be convinced by Patatas Bravas dressed green, the soggy Spuds potentially previously frozen while the Sauce lacks complexity and comes across mostly medium-hot.

Not adding much but filler with Spanish Rice, Reyes description of portions as “generous” seeing two of each item more than capable of sating a family of six, Chicken Chilaquiles were further compromised by cold hunks of Queso atop a strangely Tomato-like Sauce while the aforementioned Fettuccine & Braised Short Rib was fine, but sporting less than 2oz of Protein and none of the menu-listed Mushrooms.

Perhaps making a mistake by not ordering more “cazuelas,” or dishes cooked in saucepots, the one item that did stand out was TRES Cazuelas Pollo En Mole Poblano, a dish often made far too sweet in America here finding great depth and earthiness with an unexpected assist from Sesame Seeds.

TWO STARS: Trying very hard to practice patience during tough times, but there is nothing particularly “artisanal” about TRES Cazuelas process or Ingredients, and If you’re going to use an online ordering system, but don’t know how to use an online ordering system, and thus completely void the reasons behind using an online ordering system…then probably don’t use an online ordering system.

RECOMMENDED: Housemade Tortilla Chips, Pollo En Mole Poblano.

AVOID: Patatas Bravas, Chicken Chilaquiles.

TIP: ChowNow Link currently looks to be down, so perhaps something was learned from this event, but ownership’s failure to answer e-mails or apologize without copious excuses suggests otherwise.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.trescazuelas.com

Posted in Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, TRES Cazuelas, TRES Cazuelas Artisanal Latin Cuisine Tagged Aioli, Angelo Reyes, Beef, Beef Rib, Beef Ribs, Beef Short Rib, Beef Short Ribs, Bistec, Bistec Con Elote En Salsa Tatemada, Braised Short Rib, Braised Short Ribs, Cheese, Chicken, Chicken Chilaquiles, Chickens, Chilaquiles, Chip, chipotle, Chipotle Aioli, Chipotle Pepper, Chipotle Peppers, Chipotles, Chips, Chocolate, Chocolate Mole, Chocolate Mole Poblano, Cilantro, Cinnamon, Corn, Corn Tortilla, Corn Tortillas, Cow, Cows, Cream, Crema, Dark Chocolate, Elote, Elotes, endoedibles, Fettuccine, Fettuccine & Braised Short Rib, Fettuccine Pasta, Flour, Flour Tortilla, Flour Tortillas, Food, Foodie, Guajillo, Guajillo Chilaquiles, Guajillo Pepper, Guajillo Peppers, Guajillos, HOUSEMADE TORTILLA CHIP, Housemade Tortilla Chips, Las Vegas, Lemon, Lemons, Lime, Limes, LV, Michael Uzmann, Mole, Mushroom, Mushrooms, Nevada, NV, Onion, Onions, Parmesan, Parmesan Cheese, Parmesan Sauce, Parsley, Pasilla, Pasilla Pepper, Pasilla Peppers, Pasilla-Chocolate Mole "Poblano", Pasillas, Pasta, Patata, Patatas, Patatas Bravas, Pepper, Peppers, Pickle, Pickled Onion, pickled onions, Pickled Red Onion, Pickled Red Onions, Pickles, Poblano, Poblano Aioli, Poblano Pepper, Poblano Peppers, Poblanos, Pollo, Pollo En Mole Poblano, Potato, Potatoes, Queso, Queso Fresco, Red Onion, Red Onions, Rib, Ribs, Roasted Corn, Roasted Corn Off The Cob, Roasted Corn Off The Cob “Esquites”, Salsa, Salsa Tatemada, Sauce, Seed, Seeds, Sesame, Sesame Seed, Sesame Seeds, Short Rib, Short Ribs, Sin City, Tatemada, Tatemada Sauce, Tomato, Tomatoes, Tortilla, Tortilla Chip, Tortilla Chips, Tortillas, TRES Cazuelas, TRES Cazuelas Artisanal Latin Cuisine, Vegas, “Esquites”

April 9, 2020
11:25 AM
by: Uhockey

Valencian Gold Catering [2,] Las Vegas NV

Valencian Gold

Chicken Adobo

Adobong Sitaw

Garlic Rice

Pancit

Spanish Snickerdoodles

Opting to perform some upgrades even before pandemic restrictions shuttered on-site dining statewide, Chefs Jeffrey Weiss and Paras Shah are back at Valencian Gold currently baking Bagels, but on Thursday to #supportlocal a more traditional route was taken.

This time tapping Chef Shah’s heritage, and piggybacking off the duo’s collaboration with Marc Marrone for @deliveringwithdignity, it was a throwback to 7960 S Rainbow Blvd Suite 8000A’s days as Kulinarya Express Filipino Kitchen that four home-style dishes were served, plus a tray of the Valencian Gold’s Citrus-kissed Snickerdoodles.

An underrepresented cuisine considering the vast number of immigrants from the Philippines throughout Las Vegas, but one accessible to a variety of palates thanks to Spanish and Asian influences, it was on a bed of Garlic Rice that bowls were built, tangy Green Beans a surprising hit with many while slowly cooked Chicken Adobo featured Dark Meat that easily slipped from the Bone into a complex blend of Herbs and cooking Juices.

Also serving a huge tray of Pancit, or “Filpino Chow Mein” according to one native on staff, suffice it to say Noodles slicked with something salty is always a safe bet with this group and none went to waste between lunch and boxes taken home full of leftovers.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering or takeout alone, Chefs Shah and Weiss created something unique and delicious with Valencian Gold, and continue to push forward during tough times while also doing their part to support the community.

TIP: Open 9a-2p Monday through Friday, or until sold out, with their New York Bagel Menu.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.valenciangold.com

Posted in Catering, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Valencian Gold, Valencian Gold Catering Tagged Adobo, Adobong Sitaw, Bay Leaf, Bay Leaves, Bean, Beans, Black Pepper, Black Peppers, Cabbage, Carrot, Carrots, Chicken, Chicken Adobo, Chicken Leg, Chicken Legs, Chicken Thigh, Chicken Thighs, Chickens, Chow Mein, Cookie, Cookies, endoedibles, Filpino, Filpino Chow Mein, Food, Foodie, Garlic, Garlic Rice, Garlic-Vinegar-Soy Sauce blend, Green Bean, Green Beans, Green Onion, Green Onions, Jeffrey Weiss, Las Vegas, Leg, Legs, Lemon, Lemons, Long Bean, Long Beans, Long Green Bean, Long Green Beans, LV, Michael Uzmann, Nevada, Noodle, Noodles, NV, Onion, Onions, Pancit, Paras Shah, Pepper, Peppers, Rice, Salt, Scallion, Scallions, Sin City, Snickerdoodle, Snickerdoodle Cookie, Snickerdoodle Cookies, Snickerdoodles, Soy, Soy Sauce, Spanish Snickerdoodle, Spanish Snickerdoodle Cookie, Spanish Snickerdoodle Cookies, Spanish Snickerdoodles, Thigh, Thighs, Valencian Gold, Valencian Gold Catering, Vegas, Vinegar

April 8, 2020
11:45 AM
by: Uhockey

Crumbl (Blue Diamond) [2,] Las Vegas NV

Crumbl

German Chocolate Cake Cookie – Chocolate Cookie, Coconut Pecan Frosting, Chocolate Drizzle

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie – Peanut Butter Cookie, Milk Chocolate Chips

Carrot Cake Cookie – Carrot Cake Cookie, Cream Cheese Frosting

Chilled Sugar Cookie – Sugar Cookie, Sweet Almond Frosting, Cadbury Eggs

Born in Utah, and now with dozens of locations including three in Las Vegas plus signage for a fourth recently raised on Durango, Crumbl remains a hot commodity thanks to #instagramworthy rounds that change weekly.

The brainchild of Jason McGowan and Sawyer Hemsley, who’ve grown their brand through franchising, it was via delivery during pandemic precautions that four new flavors formed the basis of updated opinions – though issues with homogenous consistency and too much Sugar remain.

Again utilizing the store at 8085 Blue Diamond Road, the week pre-Easter finding pastel M&M’S in one Cookie not ordered, it was at a cost of $10 that four weighty specimens were presented in an elongated box, Sugar slathered in cloying white Icing no better with mini-Eggs no better now than when tinted pink in June of 2019.

Skipping Chocolate Chip based on prior experience, but finding the addition of Peanut Butter to Crumbl’s base able to off-set Milk Chocolate for a Reese’s-like effect, Carrot Cake unfortunately came up short in Spice while Cream Cheese Frosting was not tangy at all, thus leaving the cake-like Chocolate round alone to shine as dressed in faultless Coconut Pecan Frosting.

TWO AND A HALF STARS: Over a year since opening Crumbl continues to lure guests in by rotating flavors weekly, though a lack textural variance from edge-to-center still makes everything seem under-baked and cakelike while toppings are across-the-board too sweet.

RECOMMENDED: German Chocolate Cake Cookie.

AVOID: Carrot Cake, Sugar

TIP: $3 each, $10 for four, and 12 for $25. Delivery range and offerings found at www.crumblcookies.com/order

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.crumblcookies.com

Posted in Crumbl, Crumbl Blue Diamond, Crumbl Cookies, Crumbl Cookies Blue Diamond, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada Tagged Almond, Almond Frosting, Almond Icing, Almonds, Butter, Cadbury, Cadbury Egg, Cadbury Eggs, Cake, Carrot, Carrot Cake, Carrot Cake Cookie, Carrot Cake Cookies, Carrots, Cheese, Chilled Sugar Cookie, Chilled Sugar Cookies, Chip, Chips, Chocolate, Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Chip Cookie, Chocolate Chip Cookies, Chocolate Chips, Chocolate Cookie, Chocolate Cookies, Chocolate Drizzle, Cinnamon, Clove, Cloves, Coconut, Coconut Pecan Frosting, Coconuts, Cookie, Cookies, Cream, Cream Cheese, Cream Cheese Frosting, Cream Cheese Icing, Crumbl, Crumbl Blue Diamond, Crumbl Cookies, Crumbl Cookies Blue Diamond, Crumble, Crumbles, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, Drizzle, endoedibles, Filling, Food, Foodie, Frosting, German Chocolate Cake, German Chocolate Cake Cookie, German Chocolate Cake Cookies, Icing, Jason McGowan, Las Vegas, LV, Michael Uzmann, Milk Chocolate, Milk Chocolate Chip, Milk Chocolate Chips, Milk Chocolate Drizzle, Nevada, Nut, Nuts, NV, Pastries, Pastry, Peanut, Peanut Butter, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, Peanut Butter Cookie, Peanut Butter Cookies, Peanuts, Pecan, Pecans, Sawyer Hemsley, Shredded Coconut, Shredded Coconuts, Sin City, Sugar, Sugar Cookie, Sugar Cookies, Sweet Almond Frosting, Toasted Coconut, Toasted Coconuts, Vanilla, Vegas

April 8, 2020
11:20 AM
by: Uhockey

Locale Italian Kitchen Catering, Las Vegas NV

Locale Italian Kitchen

Bread, Vinegar and Olive Oil

Spinach Salad – Kumquats, Almonds, Goat Cheese, Citrus Vinaigrette

Locale Caesar – Croutons, Anchovy Dressing, Lemon, Parmigiano Reggiano

Rigatoni Bolognese – Veal, Pork & Beef Ragu, Di Napoli Tomatoes, Parmigiano Reggiano

Meatballs – Di Napoli Tomato Sauce

Locale Lasagna – Ground Beef, Ricotta, Mozzarella, Tomatoes

Sicilian Cannoli – Italian Chocolate, Dried Orange, Pistachio

Now part of Las Vegas’ evolving southwest since late-June, it was during peak-pandemic that Locale Italian Kitchen served a medical staff of twenty, General Manager Paulo Duran showing up early with what could have easily fed twice that, plus utensils, plates and napkins.

Best known as home base to James Beard Foundation Semifinalist Chef Nicole Brisson, the former top-toque at Carnevino now serving her community regional Italian plates made with the same attention to detail as any Restaurant inside The Palazzo, it was by request that seven “family-style” items were carefully unwrapped, Bread fairly basic but ideal for scarpetta of Sauces and leftovers well-utilized to make Bread Pudding at home on the weekend.

Moving next to Salad, two entirely different batches of Organic Greens finding Spinach spun sweet while Romaine hailed Caesar, those in search of Sin City’s best Bolognese need look no further than 7995 Blue Diamond Road where Rigatoni currently comes dressed in four types of Meat braised individually before being ground and slowly simmered with Tomatoes and Offal.

Operating with limited hours and menu during the statewide mandate, all curb-side and take-out in addition to a market of essentials, family style Entrees include housemade Meatballs as well as a generous portion of Lasagna, and although many will be exited to receive a bottle of Pinot Noir with their dinner the better choice during work hours was a tray of Sicilian Cannoli piped full of creamy Ricotta.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering alone, Locale Italian Kitchen continues to serve excellent Food made from local Ingredients at a price point that is more than generous while also looking out for its neighbors with small market including Eggs, Toilet Paper, Rice, Cheese and adult Beverages.

RECOMMENDED: Spinach Salad, Rigatoni Bolognese, Locale Lasagna, Sicilian Cannoli.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Follow @localelv on Social Media for hours, updates and menu.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.localelv.com

Posted in Bread Basket, Catering, Dessert, Food, Italian, Las Vegas, Locale, Locale Catering, Locale Italian Kitchen, Locale Italian Kitchen Catering, Nevada, Pork Tagged #supportlocal, Almond, Almonds, Anchovies, Anchovy, Anchovy Dressing, Anchovy Fish, Andy Hooper, Baby Romaine, Baby Romaine Lettuce, balsamic, Balsamic Vinegar, Basil, Beef, Beef and Pork Meatball, Beef and Pork Meatballs, Beef Meatball, Beef Meatballs, Bolognese, Bolognese Sauce, Bread, Breaded Veal, Butter, Caesar, Caesar Dressing, Caesar Salad, Cannoli, Cannolis, Catering, Cheese, Chevre, Chevre Cheese, Chive, Chives, Chocolate, Chopped Romaine Lettuce, Citrus, Citrus Vinaigrette, Confectioner's Sugar, Cow, Cows, Cream, Crouton, Croutons, Dark Chocolate, Dessert, Desserts, Di Napoli, Di Napoli Tomato, Di Napoli Tomato Sauce, Di Napoli Tomatoes, Dressing, Dried Orange, Dried Oranges, endoedibles, Fish, Food, Foodie, Fresh Mozzarella, Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, Garlic, Goat Cheese, Ground Beef, Hand Made Meatball, Hand Made Meatballs, Handmade Meatball, Handmade Meatballs, Homemade Beef and Pork Meatball, Homemade Beef and Pork Meatballs, Italian, Italian Chocolate, Juice, Kumquat, Kumquats, Las Vegas, Lasagna, Lasagna Pasta, Lemon, Lemons, Lettuce, Locale, Locale Caesar, Locale Caesar Salad, Locale Catering, Locale Italian Kitchen, Locale Italian Kitchen Catering, Locale Lasagna, Locally Grown Baby Romaine, Locally Grown Baby Romaine Lettuce, LV, Market Tomato, Market Tomatoes, Mascarpone, Meatball, Meatballs, Michael Uzmann, Mozzarella, Mozzarella Cheese, Nevada, Nicole Brisson, NV, Offal, Oil, Olive, Olive Oil, Olives, Onion, Onions, Orange, Orange Zest, Oranges, Parmesan Cheese, Parmigiano, Parmigiano Cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese, Pasta, Pastries, Pastry, Paulo Duran, Pepper, Peppers, Pig, Pistachio, Pistachios, Pork, Powdered Sugar, Prime Growers, Prime Growers Basil, Ragu, Reggiano, Reggiano Cheese, Ricotta, Ricotta Cheese, Rigatoni, Rigatoni Bolognese, Rigatoni Pasta, Romaine, Romaine Hearts, Romaine Lettuce, Romaine Lettuce Hearts, Rosemary, Rum, Rum Budino, Salad, Salt, Salt Cod, Sandwich, Sandwiches, Sauce, Sea Salt, Shell, Sicilian Cannoli, Sicilian Cannolis, Sin City, Spinach, Spinach Salad, Sugar, Toasted Pistachio, Toasted Pistachios, Tomato, Tomato Sauce, Tomatoes, Vanilla, Veal, Veal Pork & Beef Ragu, Vegas, Vinaigrette, Vinegar, Yukon Gold Potatoes, Zest

April 4, 2020
11:35 AM
by: Uhockey

Cubanidad 1885, Las Vegas NV

Cubanidad 1885

Sweet Egg Dough Bread

Shredded Beef Ropa Vieja Cubana

Sweet Potato Mash Puré de Boniato

Fried Plantain Tostones

Beef and Olive Empanada

Ropa Vieja and Plantain Empanada

Fried Pork Chunk Masitas de Cerdo

All Natural Chicken Breast Mojo Criollo

Cuban Rice and Beans Arroz Congri

Fried Yucca

Dulce de Leche Cortada Receta Cubana

Turrón de Maní

Cabezotes de Capuchino

Inhabiting the block south of Spring Mountain Road on Fort Apache since just before Memorial Day 2019, it was seeking something different for lunch during the pandemic that Cubanidad 1885 came to mind, a variety of dishonest delivery apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash ignored in favor of directly contacting the Restaurant via e-mail a day in advance.

Dubbed “the Ybor Original,” and featuring a menu from Chef Dennis Martinez Miranda, it is inside Spic and Span confines that guests will currently find staff dressed in PPE, a small market to the right offering certain essentials while the counter and kitchen continue to turn out some of Sin City’s very best Cuban Cuisine.

Open at 11:00am daily, an 11:30 pick-up delayed slightly by a sizable order plus three other parties waiting for take-out, it was after assuring all was accounted for that boxes were transported two-miles, their contents each temperature appropriate and everything served in portions commiserate to price.

An unfamiliar genre to some, Cuban food by-and-large underrepresented in comparison to Mexican or Filipino across The Valley, it was after perusing the choices that Empanada started the party, Beef and Olive packing plenty of brine but doing so with balance while Ropa Vieja found itself slightly sweetened by mashed Plantain inside another dozen Pastry pockets.

Selecting three Meats as part of the “Family Completa,” just $39 for tangy Shredded Beef, crispy Pork and Chicken moistened by Mojo Criollo, also included in the package were Tostones and Puré de Boniato, the former crisp and salty while the Sweet Potatoes taste almost sweet as Dessert thanks to a liberal amount of Molasses.

A locally-owned import, Chef Miranda’s Cuban upbringing and professional training yielding big flavors made with proper technique, Sweet Bread typically served around Pork as Medianoche proved quite useful for sopping up Sauces while “Cuban Rice” found added flavor from Beans and bits of Meat.

Making Sauces and Salsas on-site, Garlic Cilantro and Chimichurri both amicable dance partners for Yucca Fries, Desserts are only part-listed on Cubanidad’s website, and although the Flan is indeed good those seeking things a little less ubiquitous should strongly consider chilled Dulce de Leche Cortada, syrup-sweet Cuban Capuchinos or Peanut Turrón on par with some of the best in Spain.

FOUR AND A HALF STARS: Open for just about a year on Fort Apache, Cubanidad 1885 continues to put on a very impressive display in terms of customer service and preparedness while the product served far outperforms the modest price point.

RECOMMENDED: Masitas de Cerdo, Ropa Vieja, Tostones, Arroz Congri, Turrón de Maní, Cabezotes de Capuchino.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Open 11am until 9pm at 3585 South Fort Apache Road, and currently offering free delivery within 5 miles for orders over $25.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.cubanidad1885.com

Posted in Bread Basket, Cubanidad, Cubanidad 1885, Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork Tagged All Natural Chicken Breast, All Natural Chicken Breasts, Arroz Congri, Bean, Beans, Beef, Beef and Olive Empanada, Beef and Olive Empanadas, Bread, Breast, Breasts, Cabezotes de Capuchino, Cake, Cakes, Capuchinos y Cabezotes Cubanos, Caramel, Cheese, Chicken, Chicken Breast, Chicken Breasts, Chickens, Chimichurri, Cilantro, Citrus, Cortada Receta Cubana, Cow, Cows, Cream, Cuban Capuchinos, Cuban Rice, Cuban Rice and Beans, Cuban Salsa, Cuban Salsa Tomato Escabeche, Cubanidad, Cubanidad 1885, Cubanidad 1885 Catering, Custard, Dennis Martinez Miranda, Dennis Miranda, Dessert, Desserts, Dough, Dulce de Leche, Dulce de Leche Cortada Receta Cubana, Egg, Egg Bread, Egg Dough, Egg Dough Bread, Egg Yolk, Egg Yolks, Eggs, Empanada, Empanadas, endoedibles, Escabeche, Food, Foodie, Fried Plantain, Fried Plantain Tostone, Fried Plantain Tostones, Fried Plantains, Fried Pork, Fried Pork Chunk, Fried Yucca, Garlic, Garlic Cilantro Sauce, Las Vegas, Lemon, Lemons, LV, Mashed Sweet Potato, Mashed Sweet Potatoes, Masitas de Cerdo, Michael Uzmann, Milk, Mojo, Mojo Criollo, Molasses, Nevada, NV, Olive, Olives, Onion, Onions, Pastries, Pastry, Peanut, Peanuts, Pepper, Peppers, Pig, Plantain, Plantains, Pork, Pork Chunk, Pork Chunks, Potato, Potatoes, Puré de Boniato, Puree, Puree de Boniato, Rice, Ropa Vieja, Ropa Vieja and Plantain Empanada, Ropa Vieja and Plantain Empanadas, Ropa Vieja Cubana, Rub, Salsa, Sam Chen, Sauce, Shredded Beef, Shredded Beef Ropa Vieja Cubana, Sin City, Spicy Chimichurri, Sugar, Sugar Syrup, Sweet Egg Dough Bread, Sweet Potato, Sweet Potato Mash, Sweet Potato Mash Puré de Boniato, Sweet Potatoes, Syrup, Tomato, Tomatoes, Tostone, Tostones, Turron, Turrón de Maní, Vegas, White Rice, Yolk, Yolks, Yuca, Yuca Fries, Yuca Fry

April 2, 2020
9:00 AM
by: Uhockey

Valencian Gold (NY Bagel Menu,) Las Vegas NV

Valencian Gold

Everything Bagel

Plain Bagel

Sesame Bagel

Egg Bagel

Bialy

Knish with Stone ground Mustard

Whipped Cream Cheese

Scallion Cream Cheese

Opting to perform some upgrades even before state pandemic mandates shuttered all on-site dining, Chefs Jeffrey Weiss and Paras Shah are back at Valencian Gold with new ideas in the works, first up a collection of New York Bagels, Bialys and Knish for a city where such things are infrequently found.

A project rooted in Jeffrey’s past, and thus far well-received by Chefs as well as diners, Valencian Gold can be found in the Southwest Marketplace off Rainbow Boulevard, and although the “Spanish fast-casual” menu is currently not offered those looking for some top-quality Carbs are in luck.

Open at 9:00am on weekdays since April 2nd, though prep-work starts several hours earlier in the former Kulinarya Express Filipino Kitchen, it is via time-honored process that Bagels are mixed, formed, proofed, boiled and baked, the “Plain” anything but from its chewy-but-not-overly-dense crumb to a generous golden skin.

Hand-whipping two styles of Cream Cheese plus Tofu, in addition to other select Jams and Spreads, those who like the taste of Scallions should not hesitate to order a double-helping of Chef Shah’s creamy concoction, though in the case of a $3.50 Bialy further Toppings are unnecessary thanks to Caramelized Onions at the center of a Focaccia-soft round.

Adding Lox by popular demand, nine straight Sold-Out days leading up to Easter Sunday (even with many believers celebrating Passover,) Chef Weiss plans to start serving Breakfast Sandwiches “soon,” but for those seeking something a little more substantial in the meantime the Knish rivals Katz’s or Canter’s in terms of flavor, consistency and heft at about 2/3 the price.

N/A: Making it blog policy to not ‘rate’ places based on catering or takeout alone, Chefs Shah and Weiss created something unique and delicious with Valencian Gold, and continue to push forward during tough times with a New York Deli Menu that has thus far proven better than longstanding options around town.

RECOMMENDED: Bialy, Sesame Bagel, Knish, Scallion Cream Cheese.

AVOID: Not really something to “avoid,” but as tasted on day #1 of the project Valencian Gold’s Egg Bagel was indistinguishable from “Plain.”

TIP: Open 9a-2p Monday through Friday, or until sold out, and currently supporting healthcare workers by donating and delivering a dozen bagels with spreads for every purchase of a dozen.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN: 5 World Class, 4 Excellent, 3 Good, 2 Fair, 1 Poor.

www.valenciangold.com

Posted in Breakfast, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Valencian Gold, Valencian Gold NY Bagel Menu Tagged Bagel, Bagels, Bean, Beans, Bialy, Bialys, Black Pepper, Black Peppers, Bread, Butter, Caramelized Onion, Caramelized Onions, Cheese, Cream, Cream Cheese, Dough, Egg, Egg Bagel, Egg Bagels, Egg Yolk, Egg Yolks, Eggs, endoedibles, Everything Bagel, Everything Bagels, Fennel, Food, Foodie, Garlic, Jeffrey Weiss, Knish, Las Vegas, LV, Michael Uzmann, mustard, Nevada, NV, NY Bagel, NY Bagels, Onion, Onions, Paras Shah, Pepper, Peppers, Plain Bagel, Plain Bagels, Poppy, Poppy Seed, Poppy Seeds, Potato, Potatoes, Salt, Scallion, Scallion Cream Cheese, Scallions, Seed, Seeds, Sesame, Sesame Bagel, Sesame Bagels, Sesame Seed, Sesame Seeds, Sin City, Soy, Soy Bean, Soy Beans, Stone Ground Mustard, Tofu, Valencian Gold, Valencian Gold NY Bagel Menu, Vegas, Whipped Cream Cheese, Yolk, Yolks

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Cubanidad 1885, Las Vegas NV

Valencian Gold (NY Bagel Menu,) Las Vegas NV

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