Endo Edibles

October 3, 2015
9:34 AM
by: Uhockey

The Bootlegger Italian Bistro, Las Vegas NV

The Bootlegger Italian Bistro

Ciabatta and Whole Wheat Bread Basket

Italian French Toast – Ciabatta bread dipped in egg batter, crusted w/Captain Crunch

House Stack Cakes – Three homemade pancakes w/butter & maple syrup

Eggplant Benny – Breaded eggplant topped w/sliced tomatoes, poached eggs, basil & marinara sauce

Maria’s panetti breads & tomato basil dip

Meat Ravioli Fritti – lightly breaded & flash fried w/marinara sauce

House Specialty Maria’s classic baked lasagna w/meat sauce

Pizza Basilico with Artichokes, tomato, basil & mozzarella cheese

Cannoli – Crispy pastry shells filled with Maria’s orange scented cream filling and garnished with chocolate chips

Located at the south end of Las Vegas Boulevard with a heritage stretching back to an era long past and a location off-Strip, it was with three friends and a smiling youngster that breakfast bridging to lunch was enjoyed at Bootlegger Bistro, the 24/7 space celebrated for late night music and red sauce Italian proving far more sedate so early in the day.

Not particularly well staffed at our 10:30am arrival, one friend left in a lobby that the waitress admittedly “doesn’t really check” since most enter through the bar, it was with all soon accounted for that we were offered a cozy four-top alongside the windows overlooking the an outdoor patio, the rose lighting making for challenging pictures while music from the 50s played from speakers neither too soft nor too loud.

Admittedly timing the meal to coincide with the eleven o’clock transition from breakfast to lunch it was with both menus presented that eyebrows raised to bargain-basement prices, the pre-tip total of just over $80 a veritable bargain for such a table twice overflowing with food.

Starting off the day with breakfast, myself particularly famished after a late night and early morning run, it was in a trio of plates that opening bites were entrusted, a Pancake and French Toast pairing showing the former simple and fluffy while the latter was sweet with custard and cereal even before adding pure maple syrup from home, the Benny surprisingly excellent with crispy eggplant crowned in perfectly poached eggs and housemade red sauce.

Offering hot bread with each course, the first a basket of toasts from which ciabatta proved lovely for sopping up sauce, it was with a sizable basket of buttery garlic knots that the lunch portion of the morning kicked off, the fried ravioli stuffed with finely ground meat teaming with spices while the doughy pizza was only fair-to-middling compared to the restaurant’s ‘signature’ lasagna, the enormous wedge topped in meat sauce and mozzarella more than enough to share.

Doing a lot of the legwork during on the lasagna when it came for dessert I almost decided to opt out, but spotting cannolis made in the Italian tradition one couldn’t help but order a trio, the crispy tubes elegant with bittersweet chocolate chips playing off cream tinged in orange zest.

THREE AND A HALF STARS: Far better than many traditional ‘checkered tablecloth’ spots in town with favorable pricing considering the quality of the food, suffice it to say although I’m not sure I’d invest in the crowd and cost of dinner I’d strongly encourage anyone looking for breakfast or brunch in a Vegas Classic to give Bootlegger Bistro a look.

RECOMMENDED: Eggplant Benny, French Toast, Fried Ravioli, Cannoli.

AVOID: Pizzas are doughy and overpriced compared to many others in town.

TIP: Celebrated for their late night shows featuring live music and celebrity sightings The Bootlegger Bistro is also known to be an afterhours favorite of Strip performers who are often coaxed into an impromptu bit of showmanship for those fortunate enough to be in the crowd.

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

http://bootleggerlasvegas.com

Posted in Bootlegger Italian Bistro, Bread Basket, Breakfast, Dessert, Food, French Toast, Italian, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pancakes, Pizza, The Bootlegger, The Bootlegger Italian Bistro

October 2, 2015
6:14 PM
by: Uhockey

Mizumi, Las Vegas NV

Mizumi

Green Tea

Tempura Scallop with Avocado Puree, Osetra Caviar, Micro Basil

Chilled Shigoku Oysters with Ponzu-Red Wine Mignonette, Fresh Wasabi, Micro Shiso

Organic Tofu and Shinseki Pear Salad – Furikake Lavosh, Kokabu Turnops, Pomegranate, Yuzu Vinaigrette

Angus Beef Tataki – Fried Leeks, Ponzu Gelee, Ginger Oroshi, Kimchee, Kokabu Turnips

Giant Clam, Clam Muscle in Yuzu Butter Sauce, Pink Snapper, Kampachi, O-Toro, Bluefin, Ocean Trout, Bay Scallop with Premium Soy Sauce and Ponzu

Big Island Abalone and Black Truffle Chawanmushi with Mitsuba Leaves

Seared Foie Gras with Kabocha Puree, Micro Green and Pomegranate Salad, Chestnut Foam, Fall Spice, Pomegranate-Balsamic Reduction

Miso Grilled Octopus – Ruby Red Grapefruit, Frisee and Fennel Salad, Crispy Garlic, Yuzu Kosho

Kami Nabe Hot Pot – Seabass, White Shrimp, King Crab, Scallop, Tokyo Negi, Shiitake Mushrooms, Shirataki Noodles, Mitsuba, Carrots

Green Tea Panna Cotta – Green Tea Sponge, Pistachio Crumble, Fresh Plums / Liquid Lemon-Yuzu Cheesecake – Graham Walnut Streusel, Sour Cherry Compote, Sugared Walnuts, Morello Cherry Sorbet / Vegan Coconut Croquant – Coconut Snow, Organic Sugarloaf Pineapple, Lime Gel, Pandan Sorbet

Honey Toast – Toasted Brioche Cubes, Honey-Peach Jam, Brown Butter Ice Cream, Hazelnut Crunch

Mizumi Chocolate Mask – White Chocolate, Hazelnut Dacquiose, Chocolate Mousse, Praline Puffed Rice, Vanilla Ice Cream

Long residing on a fine dining ‘to-do’ list that never seems to shorten in a city where change is far more common than a truly classic space it was finally on Friday evening that myself and two friends sat down to dinner at Devin Hashimoto’s Mizumi within the Wynn, the former chef at Michelin 2* Alex serving up modern Japanese cuisine as exquisite in execution as it is high in price.

No doubt one of the best rooms in Las Vegas, a waterfall view in the main room sure to wow both tourists and locals alike, it was just after the restaurant’s 5:30 opening that all were seated in plush chairs gathered around a spacious marble four-top, the menu presented and perused as forgivingly light EDM pulsed overhead.

Greeted by the Chef who graciously agreed to cook for the table it was with hot green tea charged at $15 with unlimited refills that the evening commenced, one member of the table instead opting for a modestly priced sake that reportedly proved to be a bargain given the quality as a lightly battered scallop crowned in briny caviar spoke to high quality sourcing and plating intended to impress.

Served in five courses in a time-span just over two hours and a half, the first round saw the kitchen focus on raw presentations including a half-dozen oysters enlivened by fresh wasabi alongside strips of paper-thin beef as well as an ambitious tofu salad, each bite of the later showing a complex interplay of textures as well as flavors while melt-in-your-mouth Angus found balance in ponzu and cabbage aged to ferment.

Requesting the kitchen ‘go easy’ on sushi, but clearly ignoring such constraints when allowed to offer at their whim, course two saw Devin send out a large sampling of items flown in daily, the tender toro taken from just below the collar perhaps the best piece of tuna to ever grace my palate while the clam and its warmed extras were nearly as thrilling and tender, the snappy pink snapper another memorable bite.

Onward to warm items, all three menu mainstays with slight variance in the accoutrements depending on what is most fresh, suffice it to say that $40 for a small pot of egg custard seems expensive no matter how exotic the ingredients while both the unctuous duck liver and lightly grilled octopus competed to steal the spotlight from one another, the autumnal notes of the former no less lovely despite the warm weather while the bitter grapefruit gracing the latter dazzled in juxtaposition to fennel and garlic fried crisp.

Light on the stomach, as Japanese cuisine often seems to trend, a hot-pot was presented as the night’s final savory, the admixture of seabass and shellfish all cooked to a semi-firm texture above still-burning flames as the mushrooms, vegetables, and springy noodles all lent textural variance to a broth that was crystal clear but umami rich.

Truly a restaurant worthy its accolades, though the pre-tip bill trumped $350 even with few items offered as gifts, it was with Devin standing tableside discussing Las Vegas dining in general that the meal would end, a trio of molecular-influenced ‘sundaes’ each memorable in their own way while an additional request for cubed honey-toast riffing on a parfait or bread pudding was absolutely outstanding beneath fresh peach jam and brown butter ice cream, the “Mizumi Chocolate Mask” a destination sort of signature as beautiful as it was enjoyable to eat.

FOUR AND A HALF STARS: Only short of the city’s very best meals thanks to the premium charged for prime real estate along the man-made lake, there is no doubt that Mizumi offers a true dining ‘experience’ that extends beyond just sushi or contemporary Japanese dining, the humble chef’s French training coming across in plates reminiscent of Robuchon and at times even more refined.

RECOMMENDED: Toro, Angus Beef Tataki, Foie Gras, Chocolate Mask, Liquid Lemon-Yuzu Cheesecake.

AVOID: Oysters are aggressively priced at $4.25 each while the Chawanmushi, as elegant as it is, seems criminal at around $4-5 per spoon.

TIP: Offering several seating options beyond the main dining room, those interested in alternatives are encouraged to explore the bar, curved sushi counter, Robatayaki station, Teppanyaki room, or even the exclusive private dining room tucked behind a wall of fine wines.

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

http://www.wynnlasvegas.com/Dining/FineDining/Mizumi

Posted in Bread Pudding, Dessert, Foie, Food, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Mizumi, Nevada, Octopus, Sushi, Tasting Menu, Truffle

October 2, 2015
2:04 PM
by: Uhockey

Sunville Bakery, Las Vegas NV

Sunville Bakery

Date and Walnut Mooncake

Lotus with Yolk Puff

Taro Puff

Egg Custard Bun

Pork and Corn Bun

Red Bean with Yolk Puff

Orange Sponge Cake

Having set out several weeks ago to explore the ethnic pastries of Las Vegas it was Friday evening prior to dinner that I approached Sunville Bakery, to the best of my knowledge the final standalone shop on Spring Mountain left to visit, and with a friendly staff despite somewhat depleted shelves at 4:30 the results were not quite a case of “saving the best for last,” though certainly not too far off.

Larger than some and more spacious than most, with clean floors plus a small seating area providing an added perk, it was after a few walks around to explore the goods that the middle-aged woman behind the counter was approached and able to answer a few simple questions about sliced cakes and unlabeled items behind the counter it was with a plastic tray in hand that seven bagged pastries were selected, none but the flaky Lotus puff served warm but each executing well on its intentions with flavors running the gamut from savory to sweet.

Attempting best to sample the products in a progression of light to heavy with a focus on not flooding the palate with sugar too soon it was first to the interesting pork and corn bun that fork and knife were turned, the texture not unlike most Asian buns with the enriched flour base soft and spongy around a creamy mayo emulsion speckled with good pork and what one can only assume to be kernels straight from a can.

Moving onward to a similarly textured bun that saw sweet egg custard replace the previous savory center before delving into a light sponge reminiscent of my childhood favorite orange Hostess cupcake suffice it to say that those looking to experience Sunville at its very best are encouraged to invest in the housemade Moon Cakes, no less than seven versions offered with a $3-$6 range in price.

At this point growing more impressed as the taste of date paste and butter lingered on my lips, it was next to three “puffs” that remaining appetite was invested, both the egg yolk iterations offering plenty of natural sweetness to balance out the salty richness while the dainty pastry surrounding smooth taro was something like a lightly sweetened knish, the sort of thing around which any return visit will be planned.

FOUR STARS: Slightly more limited than other bakeries on Spring Mountain Road, but at the same time executing better with service that tries its best to help, Sunville Bakery is a worthy contender for the best Asian bakery in all of Las Vegas, and to the best of my knowledge the only one offering housemade moon cakes year round.

RECOMMENDED: Taro Puffs, Moon Cakes, Egg Custard Bun.

AVOID: A late arrival as many items were unfortunately already sold out.

TIP: Whole cakes can be preordered while slices apparently change on a rotating basis I was not able to decipher despite the server trying her best to explain.

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

Posted in Dessert, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork, Sunville Bakery

September 26, 2015
8:33 PM
by: Uhockey

Bob Taylor’s Ranch House, Las Vegas NV

Bob Taylor’s Ranch House

Lobster Bisque

Garlic Cheese Bread

Half-Smoked Chicken with Twice Baked Potato

16oz NY Strip with Twice Baked Potato

12oz Filet Mignon with Vegetables

16oz Smoked Prime Rib with Ranch House Potatoes

Carrot Cake

Warm Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream

Serving Las Vegans since 1955 and apparently a dirt road destination for locals before The Valley extended in all directions towards the burbs, Bob Taylor’s Ranch House was chosen for an eveningtime meeting for friends discussing the current boom in local dining, the juxtaposition ironic in how unintentional it actually was when taking into account a setting that has not changed in decades.

Located on the verge of Las Vegas and its neighboring city to the North and the sort of place where feral cats are free to roam on premises decorated with grass and a loose-gravel lot, it was just after 7 o’clock that our group of five was seated on the cusp of a dining room that reminisces of days long before most of us were born, the open kitchen to the left with a team of chefs searing a number of steaks, chickens, and chops.

Predating the era of artisan purveyors, outlandish sourcing from overseas, and even meats served singularly with sides to be ordered a la carte, it was with conversation and cheap cocktails from the bar that the evening commenced, and soon to be served a basket of Wonderbread topped in cheese and garlic the presentation was actually better than one may have expected, a second basket later delivered free of charge and arguably one of the three best items to arrive on the table that night.

No doubt a place more celebrated for its heritage than the items that appear on the plate, it was after an included low bowl of bisque flavored something like lobster that entrees arrived, each offered with a choice of a starch, both the creamy twice baked potatoes and bacon imbued Ranch House iteration competent with the former actually on-par with pricy versions on the Strip while the latter compared favorably to a good breakfast hash.

Moving onward to the meats, suffice it to say that the two bites of New York Strip tasted were sinewy enough that fork was subsequently kept to myself and as much as the half smoked chicken may have seemed like a good option for those seeking something lighter, the actual execution was so dry that even dark meat saw one of my tablemates nearly choke when attempting to swallow without water, a veritable disaster of a dish with 2/3 left to waste.

Told by a friend that Smoked Prime Rib was really the only thing to order at Bob Taylor’s it was in a 16oz cut that $34.95 was sank and although certainly not much to look at both the flavor and texture were complex and ind indulgent, each bite seeing the tender flesh thoroughly permeated with perfume from mesquite that helped offset the heft of melting fat.

A lot of food for the dollar, though not exactly a bargain unless one puts a monetary value on experiencing a “classic” in its almost original form, it was in a duo of desserts that remaining appetites were invested, the brownie and ice cream combination really no different than any diner classic while the huge wedge of carrot cake was enough to share around the table, the moist base chock-full of nuts and raisins with cream cheese frosting that came across tangy and only modestly sweet.

TWO STARS: Perhaps a poor choice for dinner the week after doing CUT and Carnevino on back-to-back nights it still warrants mention that the quality of Bob Taylor’s Ranch House is really no better than any number of low-to-mid-range chains, the price too high to justify anything other than the smoked prime rib and perhaps a dessert no matter how historic the space.

RECOMMENDED: Smoked Prime Rib, Garlic Cheese Bread, Carrot Cake.

AVOID: Smoked Chicken, New York Strip.

TIP: Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, those looking for a bargain sort of Bob Taylor’s experience may be interested in the midday Steak Sandwich, two friends independently claiming they enjoyed it enough to warrant checking the Ranch House off ‘the list.’

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

http://bobtaylorsranchhouse.com/

Posted in Bob Taylor's, Bob Taylor's Ranch House, Bread Basket, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Lobster, Nevada, Pork

September 26, 2015
5:40 PM
by: Uhockey

EllaEm’s Soul Food, North Las Vegas NV

EllaEm’s Soul Food

Cornbread Muffins

Fried Chicken, Chicken Gravy, Fried Okra, Mac n’ Cheese, Candied Yams

Sweet Potato Pie

Red Velvet Cake

Tucked away in a strip mall on West Craig Road in North Las Vegas, but frequented by locals and those within the proper city limits for what some consider to be the best Soulfood in The Valley, it was just after 5pm that I entered the stripped down confines of EllaEm’s for a bite before dinner and although several take-out orders unfortunately caused a rather lengthy delay from the kitchen one would be hard-pressed to name another place offering a more authentic experience, particularly at such a price.

Not at all billed to be the upscale experience of Yardbird and far less often discussed than either location of underwhelming M&M Soul Food Cafe found further South, it was at a four-top surrounded by a crowd of all ages and ethnicities that I was seated mere moments after entry and perusing the menu it a young Hispanic hostess offered smiling greetings before filling water and presenting the first of two rounds of complimentary cornbread muffins, each bite tinged with sweetness amidst a delicate yet toothsome base.

Offering a la carte options, but generally a far better deal when ordered as a combo or traditional “Meat + 3,” it was in rejecting temptation offered by fried pork chops as well as several other entrees that my original target of EllaEm’s signature fried chicken was selected and although attempts to add-on a waffle were thwarted by poor kitchen timing the nearly thirty minute wait was rewarded by two legs and a thigh of crisply breaded brined bird, the spice profile well represented straight through the skin and into the flesh while sides of yams and fried okra were reference standard in execution, the man & cheese largely forgettable with overcooked noodles plus a soupy thin sauce.

Apologies offered by the young server for the missing waffle and delays that were in no way her fault, there was little doubt that a meal at any Southern eatery was likely to end without a sampling of dessert, and although the lack of banana pudding would seem to be a serious menu oversight both the small slice of warm red velvet cake and one of Sweet Potato pie were far better than one may have expected, the former far sweeter than other cocoa-laden iterations while the latter atop a crisp and flaky crust impressed by taking the traditional savory route.

FOUR STARS: No doubt one of “Hidden Gems” of North Las Vegas, an area oft lamented for a dearth of quality places to dine, EllaEm’s offers not only a relative bargain for the dollar but also some of the city’s very best fried chicken and Red Velvet Cake, no small praise considering the omnipresence of each on menus throughout town.

RECOMMENDED: Fried Chicken, Red Velvet Cake, Fried Okra, Sweet Potato Pie.

AVOID: Macaroni and Cheese.

TIP: Closed on Mondays, 11a-9p Tuesday through Saturday and closing at 7 on Sunday.

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

http://ellaems.com/

Posted in Bread Basket, Cornbread, Dessert, EllaEm's, EllaEm's Soul Food, Food, Las Vegas, Nevada, North Las Vegas

September 26, 2015
11:51 AM
by: Uhockey

Amore Taste of Chicago, Las Vegas NV

Amore Taste of Chicago

Thin Crust – Half Cheese, Half Pepperoni

Deep Dish – Sausage and Mushroom

Cannoli

Said by some to be the best Chicago Style Pizzeria in Sin City, or perhaps just the one most decked-out in Windy City swag, it was for lunch on Saturday that a party of three stopped in to Amore Taste of Chicago and inhabiting a table in front of a mural of the 2013 Blackhawks a ‘taste’ of two pizzas plus a pair of Cannolis was fine, if not memorable – certainly not a spot worth going out of the way for unless one is completely inexperienced or overly curious to verify whether the rumors are true.

More sizable than one would gather from the exterior and brighter than many places of its ilk as a result of large windows exposed to the strip-mall parking lot out front, it was to an empty dining room that we arrived as doors clicked open and remaining that way throughout the duration of our 60 minute stay the service was expectedly attentive, pies requested to be delivered as completed with thin crust presented after a mere ten minute wait.

Admittedly benefited by a Midwestern upbringing, not to mention a sister who lives minutes from Wicker Park, suffice it to say that the circle cut into rectangles was far less novel to me than it may be to others while tomato sauce seemingly straight from a can did little to improve rather flavorless crust, the mozzarella not particularly impressive either while Pepperoni was the typical oily store-bought stuff.

Not really expecting much from the deep-dish considering the overall quality of the traditional pie it was with a medium-thick version removed from the pan and served atop cardboard that the meal progressed, the same ingredient quality generally marring crust that would have been better off with more butter left to caramelize though the sausage and mushrooms were a touch more successful than pepperoni as toppings, each cannoli perfectly serviceable with a shattering shell filled to order, though far from the best available in town.

TWO STARS: Generally not the sort to assume that Las Vegas should meet or exceed the quality of signature dishes from cities a thousand or so miles away, Amore Taste of Chicago simply is not as good as any of the classics offered within the confines of The Second City, a more substantial search necessary to see if it is even the best in the (702.)

RECOMMENDED: Snowbirds in need of a fix may find some use for the Deep Dish.

AVOID: Expectations or exclamations that this is anywhere near on par with Pequods, Lou’s, Burt’s, Gino’s, or even the original Uno or Due.

TIP: No doubt a place for Chicago Sports, those interested in catching a game may wish to check the place out on Sundays or during Cubs, Hawks, or Bulls games throughout the year.

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

http://www.amoretasteofchicago.com/

Posted in Amore, Amore Taste of Chicago, Dessert, Food, Italian, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pizza, Pork

September 26, 2015
9:23 AM
by: Uhockey

L’Epid’or Bakery, Las Vegas NV

L’Epidor Bakery

Red Bean Pastry

Puff Pastry Roll

Asian Pound Cake

Custard Cream Donut

Corn Stick

Egg Custard Pastry

Chestnut Roll

Tucked away amidst one of the larger complexes along the Western portion of Spring Mountain it was early Saturday morning that a stop was made at L’Epidor Bakery and although several items were coming forth warm from the kitchen as I perused the options results were only fair-to-middling, the prices slightly higher than those at Diamond or Sunville as well.

Smaller than other Asian pastry shops in town, but similarly staffed by clerks whose English is barely enough to answer the most basic of questions, shelves were unfortunately a bit less well-stocked than would have been ideal during the early morning hours but managing to craft an order just under $20 the first bites were of miniature cornbreads, the flavor not dissimilar to the American iteration though texture was a bit bit more spongy, an almost ‘gluten-free’ sort of density seeing the majority of the bag discarded later that morning.

Moving next to a pair of items not seen elsewhere in Sin City, nor anywhere else on limited sampling around the United States, the soft Chestnut Roll was a delightful bit of sweetness dotted by tender smoky nuts while the Napoleon wrapped in starchy white bread seemed almost ridiculous in execution, the exterior no different from Wonder or Bunny while the interior fared far better, the lightness of the puff pastry reminiscent of phyllo while the cream was light and only modestly sweet.

Showing well with more traditional items such as the Egg Custard and Red Bean Buns, the latter potentially to have benefited from a touch more filling, it was onward to a cream-packed donut that the tasting marched forward, the exterior a bit oily beneath the granulated sugar though the interior was light and fluffy – a descriptor I only wish would have been applicable to the “Asian Poundcake” which instead presented like a wispy mouth sponge virtually inedible without some sort of beverage and as such left to the birds.

TWO AND A HALF STARS: Hit and Miss compared to others, the high points quite impressive while lows were abysmal, L’Epidor is a spot that likely requires a return visit when shelves are better stocked in order to better assess the overall quality of execution, though a first look indicates there are certainly better Asian Bakeries to be found.

RECOMMENDED: Chestnut Bun, Egg Custard Pastry, Interior of the Puff Pastry Roll.

AVOID: Asian Pound Cake, Corn Sticks, Arriving too Early.

TIP: Mislisted as 4850 or 6850 on various online listings the actual address is 6870 Spring Mountain Rd, #8. Open 9a-9p Seven-Days a week.

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

Posted in Breakfast, Cornbread, Dessert, Food, L'Epid'or Bakery, L'Epidor, L'Epidor Bakery, Las Vegas, Nevada Tagged L'Epid'or Bakery

September 19, 2015
9:23 PM
by: Uhockey

Carnevino [6,] Las Vegas NV

Carnevino

Corpse Reviver #2 – Broker’s Gin, Lillet, Cointreau, Lemon Juice, Pernod Rinse

Gougeres with Gorgonzola

Rosemary Rolls with Lardo and Salted Butter

Crab Stuffed Squash Blossom with lemon, cherry tomatoes, mascarpone

Carne Cruda Alla Piemontese – chopped to order steak tartare

Dry Aged New York Carpaccio with horseradish, caper, beet relish

Veal Tongue in Brodo with pureed parsnip, radish and lemon

Fig Salad with Bitter Greens, Marinated Onions, House Bacon

Beef Cheek Ravioli with aceto balsamico

Tagliatelle Bolognese

Gluten Free Pasta with crab, jalapeno and cipollini

Fried Eggplant with tomato & ricotta

Mascarpone & Guanciale Mashed Potatoes

Grilled Corn with Pickled Peppers and Lime

240+ Day Dry Aged 2.5” Riserva Bone-In Rib Eye

90+ Day Dry Aged Bone-In Rib Eye

Lamb Chops ‘Scottadita’ – 3 Double Chops with Sea Salt, Lemon Zest, and Mint

Pork “Osso Bucco” with Sauteed Spinach and Gremolata

Double Espresso on Ice and Royal Tokaji Co. 5 Puttonyos 2008

Chocolate Bourbon Budino with nutella cream and cherry jam

Apricot Poppy Seed Cake with dindarello raspberries and candied walnuts

Balsamic Cheesecakewith figs and pine nut brittle

Bowl of Fresh Fruit

Amaro Cart

A tradition coinciding with the Olympia each September for the past few years, it was with seven friends both new and old that another exquisite meal at Carnevino took place on Saturday evening, all the old standards including a particularly funky Riserva Rib Eye proving every bit as excellent as ever while a few new additions including some crafted for tablemate battling diagnosed Celiac Disease showed the versatility of Nicole Brisson and a kitchen staff willing to go above and beyond the call of duty to please.

This time forgoing a private booth in favor of the lower ceiling intimacy of a back-room linking the two major dining halls, it was again with superlative service that matched professionalism to a (much needed) sense of humor that a four-course degustation bookended by far-too-many adult beverages was passed, a total of four-plus hours ending with TooL’s Lateralus blaring loud enough to be heard on The Palazzo floor as the Chef herself sat tableside sipping Barolo while discussing topics entailing restaurants, criminal justice, and more…

No doubt a night that will be long be remembered, not least for the food, anyone lucky enough to have taken a seat at Carnevino will realize that the primary focus of the restaurant is its BBL Beef and featured in versions chopped, cured, cooked, and raw it was both the carpaccio and veal tongue in Brodo that offered new glimpses of the Beef Tasting menu, the former so thin that “melts in your mouth” was expressed by more than one at the table while the texture of tongue was smooth and delicate, the pureed parsnips virtually indistinguishable from potatoes a la Robuchon in texture with slightly sweeter taste.

Impressed by the crab-stuffed blossoms in rice-flour as well as pastas that show Brisson’s years in Italy, as well as those with Batali, to have been well spent it was by two more meats that steaks were accompanied and although a trio of fatty lamb chops were as rich and gamy as expected it was the gluten-free presentation of pork shank that nearly stole the show away from the Riserva, each tender bite shredding to gentle fork pressure with flavors reminiscent of the slow-cooked pork steaks made years ago by my grandfather.

Generally going lighter in pastries at Carnevino than elsewhere in part due to the group, but also as a result of the substantial amount of food ordered during prior rounds, it was with three desserts plus a bowl of fruit that the meal found its ending, the creamy budino with cherries and semi-savory cheesecake outperforming a poppyseed cake that seemed to have suffered a bit from drying past midnight, though a great glass of Tokaji and complimentary education in herbal digestifs made such a small thing quite forgivable.

FIVE STARS: Certainly not an ‘everyday’ meal in terms of both cost and calories, Carnevino remains in a class of its own amongst Las Vegas Steakhouses, the product and execution from Brisson’s team on par (or better) than any found to date in the nation.

RECCOMENDED: Riserva Rib-Eye, Pork Osso Bucco, Veal Tongue, Beef Cheek Ravioli, Mascarpone and Guanciale Mashed Potatoes.

TIP: Not ‘always’ available, those interested in the ultra dry-aged Riserva are encouraged to make inquiries and requests when booking their reservation.

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

http://carnevino.com/

Posted in Bread Basket, Carnevino, Coffee, Crab, Dessert, Food, Italian, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork, Vacation

September 19, 2015
10:28 AM
by: Uhockey

Yardbird Southern Table & Bar [9,] Las Vegas NV

Yardbird Southern Table & Bar

Coffee and Cocktails

Buttermilk Biscuits with Housemade Apple Butter and Honey Butter

Warm Farmer’s Cheese & Watermelon – lemon oil, sea salt

Low + Slow Smoked Chicken Salad – Hass avocado, fried cornbread, fried capers, house-made buttermilk ranch dressing

Vermont White Cheddar and Fried Chicken Skin Sandwich with Creamy Dill Tomato Soup

Egg & Sausage Biscuit – fried egg, house-made sausage, ‘merican cheese, heirloom tomato

Chicken Fried Steak with Biscuits and Chipotle Country Gravy, Overeasy Eggs, Corn Grits

Chicken n’ Watermelon n’ Waffles – Fried Chicken, Hot Sauce Honey, Spiced Watermelon, Cheddar Cheese Chow Chow Waffle, Bourbon Maple Syrup

‘77 Elvis Pancakes – chocolate chip pancakes, banana compote, bourbon maple syrup, peanut butter

Char-Grilled Churrasco – sunny side up farm fresh eggs, bacon hash brown potato cake, grilled green onion, sour cream

Strawberry Shortcake – Vanilla Cake, Strawberry Ice Cream, Vanilla Ice Cream, Sorgum Chantilly, Orange Strawberry Sauce

Cornmeal Chess Pie – Sorghum Chantilly, Caramel Sauce, Caramel Pretzel, Popcorn

Figgy Pudding with Graham Cracker Streusel and Brown Butter Ice Cream

Hummingbird Cake – Cream Cheese Icing, Caramelized Pineapple, Banana Pecan Ice Cream

S’mores brownie – Charred Marshmallow, Graham Cracker Ice Cream, Hot Chocolate Sauce

Bacon-Butterscotch Cake with Bacon Frosting, Pecan Pie Filling, and Bourbon Bacon Ice Cream

Days before the announcement that Todd Harrington, the man who helped to hatch Yardbird Las Vegas just after the start of 2015, was leaving 50-Eggs for a dream job it was with family and friends that another great meal was enjoyed overlooking the pass at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar in the Venetian, the kitchen under Chef Melvin Johnson still in very competent hands without a doubt.

Having again arranged for a Chef’s Choice tasting, the new menu augmented with several of Johnson and pastry Chef Vivian Chang’s newest inspirations, details of the exemplary service and setting can easily be gleaned from several previous reviews ever since the restaurant’s beginning, the classic plates still every but as down-home and delicious as ever while five new items shows the kitchen unwilling to rest on its laurels, ever creative and equally exciting.

Starting off with cocktails and coffee, the bourbon menu growing with each successive meal, it was by the best biscuits in all the land that palates were primed for tasting, the follow-ups of warm farmer’s cheese thrilling my aunt who reminisced of the bites from Miami while the Low and Slow Chicken Salad created by Hollingsworth showed no signs of disappearing anytime soon, the crispy cornbread even sweeter than usual in the late summer season.

Chuckling at the audacity of Melvin’s spin on grilled cheese even before taking a bite, the buttered sourdough and sharp cheddar upgraded exponentially by crispy bits of lightly-spiced chicken skin that was great on its own but even better when dipped in tangy tomato soup, it was next in the don’t-you-dare-call-it-a-McMuffin Housemade Sausage Biscuit that bites were invested, the spice mix and heirloom tomatoes playing point-counterpoint with creamy cheddar and yolky golden eggs.

Still all about the fried bird from Mary’s Free Range and the sort of savory waffles that continue to make one wish for a Yardbird cookbook soon, suffice it to say that the lean flank steak coated in Yardbird’s buttermilk batter fries up just as exquisitely as the chicken while grits and smoky country gravy were reference standard iterations, the marinated Churrasco with hash another well-seasoned dish that commanded extra bites even as stomachs were nearing full, with desserts still to come.

Always able to muster up a little extra room for sweets from Chef Chang, a woman who I continue to say deserves a look from The James Beard Foundation for the quality and breadth of skills displayed across nearly a dozen items per day, it should seem obvious at this point that everything offered represented the highest expression of upscale Southern Desserts, a seasonal Figgy Pudding no less impressive as the British classic was served in hot cast iron with streusel used to shield slowly melting housemade ice cream overhead.

FIVE STARS: Already hearing naysayers suggest that Yardbird is poised to fall from its perch with the departure of Todd, those in the know will realize that a group like 50 Eggs was likely aware of the decision far enough in advance to have implemented both good systems and fail-safes, the presence of Melvin and Vivian no doubt two of them with Harrington’s stamp and strong work ethic not soon to fade.

RECOMMENDED: Biscuits, Low & Slow Chicken Salad, Fried Chicken and Waffles, Chess Pie, Hummingbird Cake, Specials.

AVOID: N/A.

TIP: Pay attention to online menus as certain items are only available at Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner with Brunch Service running Friday through Sunday.

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

Homepage

Posted in Bread Basket, Breakfast, Coffee, Cornbread, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pancakes, Pork, Tasting Menu, Vacation, Waffles, Yardbird, Yardbird Southern Table & Bar, Yardbird Southern Table and Bar

September 18, 2015
7:24 PM
by: Uhockey

CUT, Las Vegas NV

CUT by Wolfgang Puck

Pins & Needles – Tanqeray 10 Gin, Rosemary Syrup, Fresh Japanese Cucumber, Fresh Lemon Juice, Egg White

Pretzel Bread, Port and Walnut Bread

Grissini

Warm Gougeres

Maine Peeky Toe Crab & Carolina Shrimp Louis Cocktail, Spicy Tomato Horseradish

Bone Marrow Flan, Mushroom Marmalade, Parsley Salad

Maple Glazed Pork Belly, Asian Spices, Watercress, Sesame-Orange Dressing, Nectarine Compote

Sampler of Meats – 1oz True Japanese 100% Wagyu from Miyazaki Prefecture, 3oz Snake River Farms American Wagyu, 3oz USDA 35-Day Dry Aged Prime Nebraska Corn Fed Beef with Housemade Steak Sauce, Bernaise, Wasabi-Yuzu Kosho Butter

Yukon Gold Potato Puree, Tempura Onion Rings, Asparagus with Hazelnut Brown Butter, Soft Polenta with Parmesan, Cavatappi Pasta Mac & Cheese with Quebec Cheddar

Double Espresso over Ice

Valrhona Chocolate Souffle – Whipped Crème Fraiche, Chocolate Sauce, Gianduja Ice Cream

Mixed Berry Crumble – Toasted Almond Crumble, Lemon Verbena Gelato

Mascarpone Cheesecake – Blueberry Compote, Brown Butter Cookie Crust

Peach Melba Frozen Yogurt Baked Alaska – Peach and Raspberry Compote, White Chocolate Buttermilk Cake

Banana Cream Pie – Crème Brulee, Chocolate Sauce, Roasted Banana Ice Cream

Caramel and Peanut Ice Cream Bar – Valrhona Chocolate Brownie, Peanut Brittle, Salted Caramel Sauce

Pecan Financiers and Chocolate Chip Cookies

Gelees, Marshmallows, Nougat, Chocolates, Nutella Macaron

Impressed by CUT during a visit several years ago while a medical student visiting Beverley Hills, it was largely a love of neighboring Carnevino and the lackluster service at Wolfgang Puck’s Las Vegas locations that had previously precluded a meal at CUT within the Palazzo, a two-hour feast with five friends on a busy Friday night showing textbook execution of pristine ingredients with an almost unthinkably high waiter-to-table ratio.

One of the most bustling and vibrant dining rooms in Las Vegas, the energy high as well-dressed tourists decorated every seat in the house with the bar stacked two-deep, it was at a large six-top in the center of the room that our party was seated and with one captain directing a team of at least a half-dozen at our table alone it was not long before water was poured, menus were presented, and cocktail orders began flying.

Appropriately described as ‘sexy,’ the cubed glass, polished surfaces, and low lighting likely to make anyone appear a bit more interesting, attractive, or both it was with an herb-forward elixir costing nearly $20 that I listened to the captain describe several specials and inquiring as to whether the off-menu “sampler” was still available the answer was confirmed as ‘yes,’ the grissini and gougeres offering contrasting textures of cheese before my favorite piece of ancillary staff, the bread man, arrived.

Trying to go easy on pretzel batons and boozy purple bread studded with nuts it was after a short delay filled with chat that appetizers arrived and with a diverse group deferring to my order the crispy glazed pork belly was an undeniable favorite while seafood lovers relished in the fact that two of the party opted not to partake in the reference standard “Louis,” the almost-signature bone-marrow a creamier take on the traditional version with bones stuffed by a cloud-light whip nicely complimented by bitter salad and aromatic yet sweet jam.

Intrigued by non-steak items including a pan-roasted lobster, chops, and sole it simply seemed illogical to pass on a sampling of Puck’s well-sourced Cuts as the primary focus of the meal and offered a total of 7oz for a steep $125 suffice it to say each bite was taken with due indulgence, the corn-fed aged meat from Nebraska the sort of steak that would wow in any number of US Cities while the Snake River American and Japanese A5 Wagyu were exceptional even by Las Vegas standards, the portions actually quite appropriate when taking into account the richness of each.

Mostly underwhelmed by sides, the price-to-portion ratio bordering on ridiculous for potatoes, macaroni, and onion rings while the polenta and asparagus were at the very least well-prepared enough to raise eyebrows a bit, when the time came for desserts the ‘all-in’ approach was taken, not a single one of the offerings less than delicious with surprisingly sharable portions; the souffle a proudly-standing classic while innovative takes on Baked Alaska and Banana Cream Pie each balanced fruit and chocolate nicely, the crumble simple and as good as rustic restaurant desserts get.

FOUR STARS: A bit less elegant than PRIME and not as interesting or fun as Carnevino, CUT is still amongst the best four-or-five Steakhouses on The Strip for those willing and able to digest the hefty tab.

RECOMMENDED: American Wagyu, Bone Marrow Flan, Crab Louis, Baked Alaska, Mixed Fruit Crumble.

AVOID: A la carte sides trend far more pricey than others while not particularly offering anything ‘special’ compared to the average.

TIP: Those looking for a lighter experience may be interested to check out the Bar Menu, though early arrival would be recommended as the place was jammed throughout the night.

http://www.wolfgangpuck.com/restaurants/fine-dining/3801

Posted in Bread Basket, Coffee, Crab, CUT, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Macaroon, Nevada, Pork, Souffle, Vacation

September 18, 2015
6:46 PM
by: Uhockey

Portofino [3,] Las Vegas NV

Portofino

Italian Mojito

Rosemary Focaccia with Olive Oil and Balsamic

Meatballs – Kobe Beef and Duroc Pork, Fried Squash Blossom, Goat Cheese, Bacon, Beer Batter, San Marzano Tomatoes, 24 Month Parmigiano Reggiano

Fig Salad – gorgonzola panna cotta, candied walnuts, banana vinaigrette

Crab Cake Arancini – Lemon Saffron Risotto, Tarragon-Pesto Aioli, Fresno Pickles, Cornichon

100 year Balsamic Glazed Grilled Octopus – Calabrese Peperonata, Fingerling Crisps, Salsa Verde, Capers

Lasagna – Braised Oxtail Ragu, Herbed Ricotta, Mozzarella

Truffle Raviolo – asparagus, poached egg, smoked prosciutto, mascarpone

Chicken Foiefredo – pappardelle, roasted chicken, foie gras alfredo

Gnocchi – forest mushrooms, morels, sweetbreads, fava beans

Ripatelli – house made lamb sausage and peppers, grilled ramps, san marzano tomatoes

Burrata Agnolotti – Lobster, Chanterelle Mushrooms, Roasted Corn Butter

Veal Osso Buco – Saffron Risotto, Bone Marrow, Gremolata

Chicken Rollatini Parmesan – Chicken Ripieno with Housemade Chicken Sausage Stuffing, Housemade Marinara, Melted Mozzarella

Branzino – grilled asparagus, potato leek gratin, hen-of-the-woods mushrooms

Aragosta Milanese – Breaded Lobster Tail, Rapini, Lemon Sauce

Nutella Crème Brulee – twisted disaronna whipped cream, fudge, crystallized almonds

Cassata Cheesecake – Harry’s berries, Italian wedding cake croutons

Traditional Tiramisu – Cognac Crème, Lady Fingers

Cannoli Napoleon – Creamy Ricotta Cheesecake, Shortbread Crust, Amarena Cherry Compote

Gelato – Strawberry Cheesecake, Double Chocolate, Vanilla Milkshake

Relying on the restaurants I have grown to love and trust to impress friends as well as visitors for special events as well as a nice night out, it was with the same approach that my family’s visit to Las Vegas was planned, and having twice been wowed by the experience at Portofino it was once again on Friday night that Chef Michael LaPlaca and GM Chris Zadie proved their space in The Mirage to be the very best in a competitive Italian dining scene.

Having already mentioned the setting and superlative service that begins the moment each guest walks in the door, it was with a request for family-style carte blanche dining that my family was treated, not one of the previously sampled dishes any less exquisite than during previous visits while the classic Lasagna was a smoothly layered masterpiece of richness, an off-menu throwback to the Steve Wynn days offered in the delicately fried classic Lobster Tail Milanese.

FIVE STARS: Still under-regarded by tourists, though numbers seemed up from visits prior, Portofino remains the class of Italian dining in Sin City and whether one is local or visitor, Millennial or older, seeking a full tasting or a few bites at the bar the restaurant cannot be recommended strongly enough – LaPlaca almost certain to be n the kitchen with Zadie never too far from the dining room floor.

RECOMMENDED:

AVOID: N/A

TIP: The new fall menu is set to launch late-October or early-November, the audacious Diamond and Gold Lasagna said to be making an appearance when truffle season arrives

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

http://www.mirage.com/restaurants/portofino-by-chef-michael-laplaca.aspx#

Posted in Bread Basket, Crab, Dessert, Foie, Food, Gnocchi, Ice Cream, Italian, Las Vegas, Lobster, Nevada, Octopus, Pork, Portofino, Sweetbreads, Tasting Menu, Tiramisu, Truffle, Vacation

September 18, 2015
9:29 AM
by: Uhockey

The Bagel Cafe, Las Vegas NV

The Bagel Cafe

Coffee

Vanilla Crumb Cake

Blackberry Muffin

Cinnamon Roll

Black & White Cookie

Buttermilk Pancakes

Malted Waffle with Strawberries and Jam

Challah French Toast

Cheese Blintzes with Sourcream and Jam

Corned Beef Hash with Overeasy Eggs and Everything Bagel

Only visited once in the past, but a place to which several others have been referred when craving a good local deli, it was in reminiscing of Langer’s a week prior that breakfast was enjoyed at The Bagel Cafe, certainly not the landmark sort of place found in Los Angeles but a very good meal at a fair price just the same.

Laid out with a grab n’ go area, bakery, and deli near the door as a spacious but tightly packed dining room fills the rear it was just after 8am on a Friday that our party of five entered and with family getting seated while I perused the pastry case it was mere moments before the menu was navigated; orders placed and rather weak coffee poured.

Perhaps the youngest people in the place, my 60+ year old mother included, it was not long before pastry selections arrived tableside, the daily muffin and huge slice of crumb cake each buttery soft while a warm cinnamon roll was unfortunately a bit overbaked, the black and white cookie fluffy and thick although frosting tasted a bit artificial.

Moving onward to mains, the kitchen expediting orders at breakneck pace with the dining room 2/3 full, it was with faux-Maple syrup cast aside in favor of the real stuff from home that French Toast, Pancakes and Waffles were gilded, the last a flavorless disaster when compared to the textbook alternatives; the the hash simply not my style and the blitzes failing to live up to the high standards set by Langer’s and innumerable others.

THREE STARS: Slipping a bit since my first visit, perhaps an effect of such a large crowd or perhaps a result of me overrating the place based on excellent ordering the first time around, The Bagel Cafe remains a competent spot for those craving Deli foods or what is still, in my view, the best bagel in Sin City.

RECOMMENDED: Bagels, French Toast, Muffins.

AVOID: Waffles, Cinnamon Roll, Chocolate half of the Black and White Cookie.

TIP: Those inhabiting Summerlin should keep their eyes on local mailers and newspapers as The Bagel Cafe frequently offers $5 giftcards for purchases of $25 or more.

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

Home

Posted in Breakfast, Coffee, Dessert, Food, French Toast, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pancakes, The Bagel Cafe, Vacation, Waffles

September 17, 2015
7:05 PM
by: Uhockey

Hearthstone Kitchen & Cellar [6,] Las Vegas NV

Hearthstone

Iced Tea and Cocktails

Charcuterie and Cheese with Housemade Mustard and Truffle Honey

Truffle Popcorn – Truffle + Pecorino + Chives

Meatballs – Braised Short Rib + Tomato

Stuffed Dates – Chorizo + Bacon + Piquillo Pepper Gravy

Heirloom Watermelon Salad – Greek Feta + Avocado + Red Onion + Mint Vinigrette

Harvest Quinoa Salad – Chickpea + Apple + Gouda + Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Abe Froman Flatbread– Fennel Garlic Sausage

Daily Special Flatbread – Spicy Pork + Pickled Jalapenos + Marinara

Char Grilled Rib Cap Steak – Roasted Cippolini Onions + Pinot Noir

Jumbo Wood Oven Shrimp – Spicy Succotash

Whole Beast Feast

Grilled Broccoli – Fresh Lemon

Crispy Steak Fries – Smoked Sea Salt + Chives + Schmaltz Mayo

Wood Rosted Asparagus – Fresh Herb Salad + Romesco Sauce

Hearthstone Secret Dessert – Huckleberries + Meyer Lemon Curd + Sweet Ricotta + Amoretti Cookie

Peridot Sweets Snickers Cake

Peridot Sweets Carrot Cake

A bit underwhelmed by Salute the night prior it was across the hall at Hearthstone that family and friends sat down on Thursday night and although the slow summer season has seen the menu somewhat neutered the experience unfolded just like every other meal enjoyed within the comfortable confines, Chef Jordan Hoffman serving us carte blanche with only the excessively priced prawns proving a less than exceptional plate.

Having already spoken of service, music, and scenery in several prior reviews suffice it to say that seats at a hightop juxtaposing the pass were as delighful as ever, the salads, shared plates, and pizzas all across-the-board excellent the wood fired rib cap was boldly flavored and tender with scorched onions and reduced wine adding just the right amount balance as well as flare.

At this point unable to pass on The Whole Beast Feast, again served with a crock of creamy polenta and the housemade-mustard/roasting jus/apple-butter trio, suffice it to say that all eight of us were stuffed to capacity with nearly two-pounds of pig leftover even before dessert’s arrival – another duo of cakes from Peridot Sweets every bit as good as the first while the not-so-secret pancake balls proved as yeasty and irresistible as ever.

FOUR STARS: Not quite as perfect as in the past, several favorites stripped from the menu during lean months during which Salute has been a focus, Hearthstone remains the class of the Western Suburbs by a rather substantial margin, the upcoming conference season hopefully to see the return of more innovative items.

RECOMMENDED: Whole Beast Feast, Hearthstone Secret Dessert, Heirloom Watermelon Salad.

AVOID: Literally listed on the receipt as “Upsell $42” the shrimp were certainly not worth the $21/each cost.

TIP: Suggested for parties of four or more there is little doubt the $350 Whole Beast Feast is capable of satisfying as many as eight when taking into account all the sides. Advanced orders are recommended, but those just wanting a bite would be advised to pay attention to Social Media for Crispy Skinned Pig events throughout Pigskin Season.

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

Check Out The Memories We Made

Posted in Bread Basket, Dessert, Food, Hearthstone, Hearthstone Kitchen, Hearthstone Kitchen & Cellar, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pizza, Pork, Tasting Menu, Truffle, Vacation

September 17, 2015
11:33 AM
by: Uhockey

Table 10 [2,] Las Vegas NV

Table 10

Warm Rolls with Butter

Crab Hush Puppies – Pepper Jelly

Judith Point Calamari – Preserved Lemon Mayonnaise + Tomato Sauce

Candied North Country Bacon – Noble Tonic #1

Bacon Wrapped Dates – Almond + Goat Cheese

Louisiana crab cakes – NOLA remoulade

Fried Green Tomatoes – Shrimp Remoulade

Chicken + Andouille Sausage Gumbo – Steamed Rice

Pea Tortellini – Blistered Tomatoes + Smoky Pork Broth

Tomato Soup – Ricotta Cheese

Beet Salad – Pickled beets – roasted beets – pistachio butter – sea salt cracker – goat cheese

NOLA Shrimp Po’ Boy – French bread – New Orleans BBQ shrimp – lettuce – tomato – fries

Chicken Breast Sandwich – ciabatta bun – avocado slices – tomato jam – gem lettuce salad with onion, tomato, & cucumber

Emeril’s Banana Cream Pie – Chocolate Shavings – Caramel Sauce – Whipped Cream

Flourless Chocolate Cake – Lemon – Vanilla Cream – Blood Orange Sauce

Spice Carrot Cake – orange bourbon sauce – candied pecans

White Chocolate Malassadas – cinnamon sugar – raspberry sauce

Peach Hand Pie – crumble topping – vanilla ice cream

Raspberry Panna Cotta – salted brittle – chocolate pistachio biscotto

Having visited each of Emeril Lagasse’s Las Vegas restaurants at least once in the past it was with family in town that lunch was planned at Table 10, and sitting with three local friends involved in marketing the celebrity Chef it was to a grand tasting that our table of eight was treated, a kitchen-in-transition showing the same quality we’d come to expect from the man who made “BAM!” a household phrase.

Currently in the process of promoting a new chef and as such cooked for by Director of Culinary Operations Sean Roe, it was with conversations and reminiscence of my earliest years of fine dining that menus were perused and drinks were ordered, the eventual decision a carte blanche assortment of eighteen plates with several very high highs and only one or two relatively minor lows.

No doubt an underregarded space, the shops above the Palazzo gaming floor more readily known for pricy clothing, burgers, and coal-oven pies, Table 10 suffers a bit of an identity crisis compared to Delmonico or the Fish House, yet with a dynamic menu loaded with bargains plus professional service in a laid-back environment the experience is perhaps best described as ‘comfortable,’ a similar compliment befitting the food.

Beginning the meal with soft buttered rolls that continue a trend of great bread service from other Emeril spots, it was next to several small bites that the menu progressed, the Squid from Judith Point a bit lost in the breading let alone the mayonnaise while hush puppies, candied bacon, and stuffed dates were each well prepared American small-plates starters, the first particularly ample with crustacean that shined when matched to the jelly’s sweet heat.

Onward to proper appetizers, the daily special soup impressing my Aunt but falling a bit short in complexity for my tastes, better bites were found more Southern-slanted flavors including low-filler crab cakes and fried green tomatoes beneath a duo of tangy remoulades, the spice of Andouille well met by dark roux in a gumbo served atop rice.

Offering mostly sandwiches and lighter fare at lunch, the dinner menu dressed up in duck and other hearty meats, it was with a beautiful beet salad that two sandwiches were presented atop NOLA-styled bread, each Po-Boy going over nicely with the family while I attempted to keep tender pea tortellini rich with mascarpone in a smoky broth all to myself.

Unembarrassed to request all of the desserts, a second round offered when the world-renowned cream pie and spicy carrot cake were obviously in short supply, suffice it to say that there is always room for sweets in any Lagasse restaurant, even the simple peach hand pies and bursting white doughnuts amongst the best in town.

FOUR STARS: Perhaps a ‘misunderstood’ spot as much as it is underregarded the team at Table 10 is turning out a good product at a fair price for the strip with some of the best desserts in town. Obviously in a transition phase at the moment it will be interesting to see how the restaurant evolves under the direction of a new toque, a dinner visit in order once the menu is revamped.

RECOMMENDED: Pea Tortellini, Fried Green Tomatoes, Crab Hush Puppies, Carrot Cake, Banana Cream Pie

AVOID: Calamari and Tomato Soup were par for the course, disappointing largely because the rest was so good.

TIP: Frequently offering events plus a 7-day a week Happy Hour from 3pm-6pm and 9pm-close there are no doubt some great deals to be found

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

http://www.emerilsrestaurants.com/table-10

Posted in Bread Basket, Coffee, Crab, Dessert, Food, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork, Table 10, Vacation

September 16, 2015
7:13 PM
by: Uhockey

Salute Trattoria Italiana [2,] [3,] Las Vegas NV

Salute

Rosemary Focaccia with Olive Oil and 8-Year Balsamic

Eggplant Parmesan – Roasted Eggplant, Fior di Latte, San Marzano Sauce, Parmesan

Hamachi Tartare – Pear, Hazlenuts, Fennel

Albacore Crudo – Avocado, Calabrian Chili, Orange

Crispy Zucchini Flowers – Ricotta, Amaretti, Pesto

Crispy Arancini – Fontinella Cheese, Ricotta, Bolognese

Steamed Artichoke – Buffalo Milk Yogurt, Fresh Lemon, Drawn Buttermilk

Pizza all’ Acqua – San Marzano Tomatoes, Fior di Latte, Basil

Salute Bellini – White Peach, Prosecco

Aumm Aumm Pasta – Slow Roasted Eggplant, Caciocavallo, San Marzano

Spaghetti & Meatballs – Meatballs, Pecorino, San Marzano Gravy

Gnocchi “alla Sorentina” – San Marzano Tomatoes, Aged Parmesan, Blistered Tomatoes

Pappardelle Alla Bolognese – Veal, Pancetta, Red Wine

Linguini Vongole – Steamed Clams, Garlic, White Wine

Baked Rigatoni – Bolognese Sauce, Ricotta, Mozzarella Cheese

Truffle Tagliatelle – Shaved Black Truffles, Truffle Cream

Linguini with Zucchini Flowers – Walnut Pesto

Crespelli Cannelloni – Spinach & Ricotta, Mozzarella Cheese

Sciue Sciue – Chiatarra, Olive Oil, Cherry Tomatoes, Basil

Lasagna – Spinach Pasta, Tomato Bechamel Sauce, Bolognese Gravy

Carbonara – Guanciale, Peas, Egg

Fettuccini alla Vodka – Prepared Tableside

Chicken Parmesan – Fior di Latte, San Marzano Gravy, Parmesan Cheese

Lemon Chicken – Preserved Lemon, Fried Rosemary

Grilled Snapper – Marinated Tomatoes, Romesco Sauce

Veal Milanese “Saltimbocca” – Veal Cutlet, Fontina Cheese, Smoked Prosciutto

Chicken Piccata – Lemon, Capers, Rocket

Meatball – Tomato Gravy, Ricotta, Basil

Broccolini – Toasted Garlic, White Wine

Tiramisu – Mascarpone, Lady Fingers, Espresso, Macchiato Gelato

Toasted Coconut Cake – Bavarian Cream, Mango Sorbetto

Classic Bomboloni – Nutella Stuffed

Caprese Pie – Dark Chocolate, Toasted Almonds, Baccio Gelato

Peridot Sweets Zesty Citrus– vanilla cake soaked with citrus syrup, layered with citrus custard cream

Peridot Sweets Holiday Parade – pumpkin spice cake filled with maple cream cheese frosting & toasted pecan

Owned by the suddenly swelling “Clique” group, whose Hearthstone has become an across-the-street go-to for a great meal from a kitchen staff I trust, it was after several back-and-forths with PR that myself and a few friends sat down on the patio of Salute just prior to its opening – the service expectedly exemplary straight from the hands of Chefs Sautto and Massie while food proved both bold and well-crafted enough to book an opening-night visit with friends as well as family…or at least so it seemed.

No doubt a beautiful space, the interior long and shotgun straight with the left wall running bar to tiled kitchen to antipasti station as art and tiles decorate the walls, it was after a warm welcome at the podium that our party of seven was led to a large central table, greetings offered by everyone from GM Peter to Maitre ‘d Enrico and Chef Luciano, the service from a friend an additional treat though Chef Massie apparently could not leave the pass or even be bothered to turn around.

Acknowledging opening night jitters, the majority a fault of completely lost back-servers and a bar that couldn’t seem to keep up with a quarter-capacity crowd, it was after a short discussion with Chef Luciano that the kitchen was given carte blanche with a focus on pastas, 32 of the restaurants offerings sampled over the course of this meal plus a next-day “Invite Only” with results running the gamut from exquisite to decidedly mediocre with price-to-portion ratios a bit skewed to the left.

Already altering both the offerings and the costs from what was featured during the pre-opening taste, suffice it to say that some interesting items such as Osso Bucco Ravioli were axed in favor of far too many dishes centered on simple tomato sauces, the tableside Fettuccini delicious with a bit less sauce than what was featured prior while the rich Spinach Lasagna was delightfully decadent beneath Bolognese and creamy Bechamel.

Less successful with undercooked Carbonara and Truffle Tagliatelle that really has no business being served during the earliest days of Fall, a better bite is found amidst the Eggplant speckled Aumm Aumm or tender Linguini beneath blossoms and lightly bitter pesto, the Rigatoni no better than that from Michelina’s while the meatballs atop spaghetti were damn near dehydrated while the larger ones served as a side were far more tender and less overwhelmed by spices.

Almost as overpriced on zucchini blossoms as Wolfgang Puck’s CUT while the flatbreads at Hearthstone far outperform the pricey Pizza all’ Acqua, a ‘best-bet’ appetizer is more appropriately found in tartare or crudo, though those not trending to tomatoes as primi will also be impressed by the lightness of fried eggplant, the secondi selections of Chicken Parm or Veal Saltimbocca obviously a bit more substantial with the latter wrapped around Fontina and smoked Prosciutto actually quite stunning.

Fairing well with the Lemon Chicken and what may very well be the best Piccata in town suffice it to say that the dry bomboli are a dish best skipped while Coconut Cake and Caprese Pie, both brought in from Peridot Sweets, are well worth ordering – as were the two celebratory cakes delivered for our family and friends outing.

THREE STARS: At first looking like a place that may be interested in shaking up a stagnant Italian scene in the Western Suburbs it seems as though early on Salute has opted to instead play it safe, a bit of a shame considering the ‘lightgroup’ thumping music and prices not far off from those found on the Strip.

RECOMMENDED: Veal Saltimbocca, Hamachi Tartare, Eggplant Parmesan, Chicken Piccata, Linguini with Zucchini Flowers, Lasagna, Coconut Cake.

AVOID: Zucchini Blossoms, Rigatoni, Spaghetti with Meatballs, Bomboli, ordering a cocktail and expecting it to arrive before the first course…

TIP: Seating at center tables is ill advised as close spacing virtually guarantees chairs being bumped and bumbling back-server reach arounds…and in our case even a doubly mischarged credit card that was not brought to my attention until a day later despite being known to the house.

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

http://salutevegas.com

Posted in Bread Basket, Dessert, Food, Gnocchi, Italian, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pizza, Pork, Salute, Salute Trattoria Italiana, Tiramisu, Truffle, Vacation

September 16, 2015
12:41 PM
by: Uhockey

Metro Pizza on Decatur, Las Vegas NV

Metro Pizza on Decatur

Warm Housemade Bread and Butter

Meatball Sliders and Garlic Romano Fries – Housemade Meatballs, Melted Provolone, Soft Garlic Knots with Marinara Sauce

Fried Metro Calzone – Pizza Dough, Ricotta, Mozzarella, Romano Cheese, Spices

The Cicero Stuffed Pizza – Meatballs, Ricotta, Mozzarella

Cannoli, Carrot Cake, Red Velvet Cheesecake, and Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake

Told of a fried calzone that can be special requested whenever owner John Arena is present at any of the Metro Pizza locations, and perhaps occasionally even when he is not, it was on the invitation of the pizza-guru himself that my family stopped by the spot on Decatur for a lunch featuring the crispy golden pockets, a few additional items again proving the high quality of the local chain’s wares.

Decked out with a Mid-80’s Miami Vice sort of vibe, the retro décor apparently demanded by locals who rebelled when an attempt was made to change up the style, it was with greetings from John as well as friendly servers that our group of five was seated in a large round booth in back, more stories of Italy and Metro’s New York roots helping to pass time before the start of a true feast; the well-seasoned fries a bit less crisp that would have been ideal, or perhaps simply just less memorable than a quintet of delicious meatballs atop soft garlic knots and the restaurant’s complimentary housemade bread.

Ordering a stuffed pizza but told that the customized calzones would indeed arrive first, it was admittedly a bit shocking when three of the folded-pies landed at the center of our table, each large enough to feed two-to-three adults all on its lonesome with a crunchy shell giving way to a molten cheese center, the flavor of ricotta particularly prominent even when dunked in a sidecar of meat sauce with each bite far lighter than one ever would have guessed.

Requesting one of the trio be packed to go, a reheated calzone reportedly proving more than palatable per a reliable friend, it was next to The Cicero that eyes were turned and as much as a pasta-filled iteration was a fun bit of novelty just a few weeks prior the meatball and ricotta-stuffed double-crust was even more decadent, the execution impressing not just those of us calling Las Vegas and Ohio home but also those visiting from the Windy City land of Giordano’s.

Missing out on Metro’s desserts during the seminar on Sky Pointe, and almost too full under these circumstances to indulge once again, it was at John’s insistence that a platter of pastry arrived last, the crisp cannoli rivaling some of Sin City’s best while both the chocolate and carrot cake were as elegant as those served full-fledged bakeries, the cheesecake simply too at this point to be enjoyed past more than a bite.

FOUR AND A HALF STARS: A bit dated on first glimpse, the explanation from John helping to explain décor that dates to my childhood, Metro on Decatur may not be as ‘fancy’ as the one up North, but with food just as good it seems John’s formula remains in skilled hands even outside the Flagship, future visits to other locations soon to come.

RECOMMENDED: Baked Calzones are almost as good as the special-request fried ones, though it never hurts to ask as John or someone familiar with the technique may be around…otherwise get The Cicero and a slice each of Carrot and Cheesecake – enough to feed a family of 4+.

AVOID: Garlic Romano Fries were a bit oily, though I’m certainly no expert and others at the table seemed to enjoy them more.

TIP: Cheesecakes, all baked at Lu-Lu’s, vary, the current Red Velvet soon to change befitting the season,

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

http://metropizza.com/location

Posted in Bread Basket, Dessert, Food, Italian, Las Vegas, Metro Pizza, Metro Pizza on Decatur, Nevada, Pizza, Pork, Vacation

September 16, 2015
8:09 AM
by: Uhockey

Hash House a Go-Go at The Plaza, Las Vegas NV

Hash House a Go-Go at the Plaza

Coffee

Four Jumbo Biscuits with Butter and Housemade Jam

Andy’s sage fried chicken Benedict w/ fresh spinach, hardwood smoked bacon, market tomato, griddled mozzarella, chipotle cream and scrambled eggs

Andy’s famous Bread pudding topped w/ ice cream and served w/ a cup of coffee

French Toast – Griddled french toast dipped in banana cinnamon cream w/ pecan maple syrup

Snicker’s Flapjack

Already having visited the location on Sahara along with those within the (then) Imperial Palace as well as the Rio, it was with a full compliment of family that breakfast was ordered amidst the spacious confines of Hash House a Go-Go at the Plaza, but with substantial delays and subpar service marring this rendition of the San Diwego import the overall experience was less memorable than all had hoped for, though the “Twisted Farm Food” was largely just as good.

Known for its enormous portions and perhaps even more famous in Las Vegas than at home in the Golden State, it was first to a substantial wait for a table despite the restaurant being almost 2/3 empty that we stood at the podium after arriving at 8:30, another protracted delay to follow as servers seemed completely lost as to who was responsible for which table, then further complicated by a similar wait for both food as well as drinks.

Not one to suffer such annoyances well, particularly after an early rise and nearly twelve-mile early morning run, it was finally after wondering aloud why such a delay was taking place that coffee was refilled and plates began to trickle forth, the benedict still fifteen minutes away with a steaming block of bread pudding oddly arriving first.

Previously impressed by the molten brownie topped in chocolate, caramel, and nuts with ice cream slowly forming a pool of creamy vanilla sauce, it was after a few bites that attention was turned to the hubcap sized pancake studded in the similar flavors of Snickers that attention was turned, the buttermilk largely overwhelming the candybar when topped in butter and pure maple syrup brought from home while the French Toast was rich with the flavors of cinnamon and vanilla custard plus skin-on bananas, the presentation a bit slipshod though perhaps also the most “down home.”

Always attuned to the presence of biscuits, those at Hash House a Go-Go of the larger, fluffier variety popular throughout the Midwest, it was alongside the signature chicken that a quartet of golden rounds was brought forth, each amongst the best in Sin City while the mountainous Benedict buried the one included beneath crispy well-seasoned bird and fresh vegetables, the addition of bacon, cheese, at least three eggs, and smoky cream sauce no doubt making the Man vs. Food Classic a dish best shared.

TWO AND A HALF STARS: Offering more support than most for the sort of early morning gluttony through which Hash House a Go-Go has made its name it may warrant further visits to determine precisely why the service was so awful during this visit to the one at the Plaza, but unless one is restricted by transportation the better bet would seem to be a trip to the locations with better service (and free parking) on Sahara, 24/7 in the Rio, or Stripside at The Linq.

RECOMMENDED: Bread Pudding, Biscuits, French Toast (while minding the banana peel.)

AVOID: In terms of Pancakes, skip the Snickers in favor of daily specials or the one with Bananas and Brown Sugar.

TIP: Street Parking is monetized after 8am and parking at The Plaza Garage is $2 for the first hour plus $1 each thereafter, though those wanting a walk can use other local hotel valets or Neonopolis for a few bucks savings (and a few calories burned.)

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

http://www.hashhouseagogo.com

Hash House

Posted in Bread Pudding, Breakfast, Coffee, Dessert, Food, French Toast, Hash House A Go Go, Hash House a Go-Go at The Plaza, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pancakes, Pork, Vacation

September 15, 2015
9:11 PM
by: Uhockey

Gelatology [2,] Las Vegas NV

Gelatology

Fried Dough

House Sodas – Passion Fruit, Black Cherry, Mint

Peach Sorbetto, Dark Chocolate Sorbetto, Pear and Gorgonzola Gelato, Ube Gelato, Vietnamese Coffee Gelato, Passion Fruit Cream Gelato, Rice Pudding Gelato, Cinnamon Roll Gelato, Crème Brulee Gelato, Peanut Butter Gelato, Tiramisu Gelato, Malted Milk Gelato, Dark Tart Cherry Gelato

Peanut Butter Gelato (small)

Vietnamese Coffee Gelato (small)

Rice Pudding Gelato, Cinnamon Roll Gelato (small)

Stepping away from a truly memorable meal at Le Cirque with family still chatting of a marvelous first day in Las Vegas a stop at Gelatology seemed almost prerequisite, and with owner Desyree Alberganti proving the consummate hostess a baker’s dozen samples again showed the creamiest of bases imbued with exquisite flavors, the new soda program and deep fried dough doused in powdered sugar helping to cleanse palates between bites while pastries again beckoned inside the windowside case.

Obviously continuing to offer signatures as yet untasted by my visitors, the Peanut Butter, Coffee, and Dark Chocolate all impressing them as much as it has locals for years, new innovations including Malted Milk, Ube, and Dark Tart Cherry all proved equally enthralling with three cups ordered in the smallest of sizes only because little stomach capacity was left after a long day of eating, the blend of cinnamon roll and rice pudding a ‘best of both worlds’ sort of pairing that saw each complimented by the other with a flavor that came across like a Snickerdoodle cookie with more subtlety.

FIVE STARS: Still unblemished after tasting nearly one hundred flavors I remain convinced that although I still favor ice cream there is no other Gelato I’d rather enjoy than that made by Desyree.

RECOMMENDED: Enter, Sample, Order whatever tastes best, then do it again next week.

AVOID: Doing it daily, though I do know a good endocrinologist…

TIP: Fried dough is not yet on the menu, but much like the gelatos and sorbettos the pastry selection changes day-to-day and an eye on Social Media will serve fans well…or induce daily cravings…or both.

https://www.facebook.com/Gelatologylv

Posted in Coffee, Dessert, Food, Gelatology, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Nevada, Tiramisu, Vacation

September 15, 2015
6:21 PM
by: Uhockey

Le Cirque [5,] Las Vegas NV

Le Cirque

White Chocolate Coffee, French Baguette, Bacon Cheddar, Pretzel, Rosemary with Salted and Unsalted Butter

La Framboise

Le Crabe – Maryland Blue Crab and Russian Osetra Caviar

Salade de Homard – “Le Cirque” Lobster & Avocado Salad, Black Truffle Vinaigrette

Declinaison de Tomates d’Êté – Tasting of Summer Tomatoes:Tomato Gazpacho, Gelee, Merengue, Croutons, “Tough Boy” Tomato à la Grecque, Feta, Kalamata Olives and Cucumbers

Tartare de Bœuf – Prime Beef Tenderloin Steak Tartare, Pomme Gaufrette, Caper Berries, Quail Egg, Fine Herb Salad, Pain de Cafe Chocolat

Les Saint Jacques – Seared Diver Scallop, Osetra Caviar, Creamy Lobster Bisque

La Sole Meunière – Dover Sole Meunière, Glazed Vegetables, Summer Herbs Bouquet, Warm Lemon Beurre Blanc

Les Risotto du Marché – Beet Risotto with Langoustines and Mascarpone

Le Poulet Rôti – Roasted Organic Chicken, Asparagus, Wild Mushrooms, Roasted Baby Potatoes, Sauce Vin Jaune

Le Tournedos de Bœuf au Poivre – Prime Beef Tenderloin, Tomato Confit, Pommes Purée, Shallot Compote, Asparagus, Sauce au Poivre

Le Contre-Filet de Bœuf Wagyu Japonais – Japanese A5 Wagyu Kobe Beef Striploin, Braised Oxtail, Spinach Purée, Beef Tendon Croquette, Black Truffles, Foie Gras, Lobster, Gold Leaf, Bordelaise Sauce

Le Pre-Dessert – Watermelon Granite, Pickled Cucumbers

2011 Kracher Beerenauslese Cuvee

La Framboise – Raspberry Parfait, Champagne Gelée, Lychee Guimauves, Hibiscus Consommé

La Boule au Chocolat – Chocolate Ball: White Chocolate Ice Cream, Hazelnut Caramel Crunch

Lemon Vacherin – Passion Fruit, Meringue, Kiwi

Mignardises and Gourmandises

Take Home Chocolates

Convinced that Le Cirque had ascended to the top three dining experiences in Las Vegas under the toque of Wilfried Bergerhausen after a trio of visits since the 28 year old took over the kitchen in 2014 it was at the invitation of Ivo Angelov that my mother, aunt, and I sat down at a fountainside four-top on their first full day in Las Vegas, the five course tasting proving not only the best visit to the restaurant to date, but a meal on par with the best ever experienced with the people who raised me during the earliest years of my life.

Already having discussed the service and dining room, both on par with places garnering multiple Michelin Stars around the World, it was moments before six o’clock that posh seating was found waiting and with Ivo personally presenting several plates while the rest of the staff performed their tasks to make every table in the house feel like a VIP it was with Wilfried’s almost-signature Crabe that the meal began, this time presented with a smoky tableside show that further upped the ante as the Bellagio fountains danced outside, to-and-fro.

Having pre-selected a menu for the two ladies while giving the kitchen carte blanche to serve me whatever they felt was best, it was with items both seasonal and classic that second courses arrived, the lobster salad comprised of seven vegetables and a substantial bit of crustacean beneath the lightest kiss of acid while “Declinaison de Tomates d’Ête ” featured my aunt’s favorite ingredient in four variations, the cold soup absolutely vibrant as I scooped finely chopped beef atop one of the restaurant’s delectable house made breads.

Turning to sea life as classical tunes chimed amidst the big-top hung overhead it was in the safety of buttery scallops and bisque with a dollop of caviar that I entrusted Chef Bergerhausen to enthrall my somewhat fish-skeptical aunt and succeeding with flying colors both the Sole served to my mother and bright-pink risotto with snappy Langoustines served to myself were textbook in execution, the later served with a spoon of mascarpone and nuts made for mixing with each bite benefited in a very luxurious way.

Told that the chicken at Le Cirque was far more special than the average American bird it was after a short respite and conversation with Ivo as well as the Chef that meat-based entrees were presented, the yellow wine sauce and mushrooms playing brilliantly off the bird while pepper-crusted Tournedos of prime beef found balance amidst tomatoes and shallots plus potatoes on par with those of Robuchon, the “Contre-Filet de Bœuf Wagyu Japonais “ every bit as indulgent as the sum of its ingredients would suggest, an over-the-top plate in all the right ways.

No doubt anticipating desserts, a delightful duo of fruity palate cleansers served along a Lychee-leaning glass of dessert wine preceding the final round, it should be obvious to anyone visiting the restaurant that the melting chocolate sphere remains the tableside favorite, yet as much as my mother and aunt ooh’d and ahh’d over the white chocolate and hazelnuts it was actually the Vacherin “for two” that proved even more exquisite, the creamy top giving way to the flavors of smooth citrus, even the Passion Fruit proving far less sweet than in the hands of other pastry chefs as the crispy meringue offered a textural compliment.

FIVE STARS: Always a memorable meal with service that trumps even the temples of gastronomy named for triple-Michelin starred chefs, Le Cirque remains a true destination meal in a city with no lack, young Wilfried Bergerhausen perhaps the city’s greatest current kitchen talent.

RECOMMENDED: Whether one selects a tasting menu or a la carte, classics or seasonal inspiration, there is little that the team at Le Cirque can’t or won’t do well.

AVOID: Assuming that this place is too fancy or too expensive as the the service is highly adaptable to all styles while there are plenty of bargains to be found for those willing to enjoy the pre-theater menu or a few bites at the bar.

TIP: A whole new menu is ready to launch soon, even the recently launched Prestige Menu reportedly to see a substantial overhaul from a team never willing to rest on its laurels or past success.

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

http://www.bellagio.com/restaurants/le-cirque.aspx

Posted in Bread Basket, Crab, Dessert, Foie, Food, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Le Cirque, Lobster, Nevada, Pork, Tasting Menu, Truffle, Vacation

September 15, 2015
11:35 AM
by: Uhockey

Carson Kitchen [3,] Las Vegas NV

Carson Kitchen

The Bee’s Knees – Hana Gin, Fresh Lemon, Smoked Honey

Brewer’s Fix – Hop Head Vodka, Apricot reserves, Fresh Lemon, Simple Syrup, Prosecco

Nilsson Schmilsson – Sugar Island Coconut Rum, Fresh Lime, Basic Simple Syrup, Egg White

Crispy Chicken Skins – Smoked Honey

Bacon Jam – Baked Brie, Toasted Baguette

Devil’s Eggs – Crispy Pancetta, Caviar

Tempura Green Beans – Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese

Veal Meatballs – Sherry Foie Gras Cream

FGT Sliders – Fried Green Tomatoes, Lump Crab Ravigote

Wild Boar Sloppy Joe – Crispy Fennel, Orange Aioli

Halibut – Cava and Grape Juice Beurre Blanc

Bone-In Pork Belly – Stone Fruit Glaze

Peach and Heirloom Tomato – Goat Cheese, Rye Crouton, Saba

Baked Mac & Cheese – Shhhh, it’s a secret

Succotash – Corn, Lima Beans, Peas, Crema Fresca, Cojita

Alligator Gumbo – Andouille Sausage, Pickled Fried Okra

Bourbon Fudge Brownie – Brown Butter Bacon Ice Cream

Glazed Donut Bread Pudding – Three Rum Caramel, Vanilla Crème Anglaise

WineBerry Shortcake – Lavender Cream, Streusel

With the recent passing of Kerry Simon an unfortunate end to the career of one of Las Vegas’ most important chefs it was on a Tuesday afternoon that my family sat down to lunch at Carson Kitchen, and although Cory Harwell has long been the brain behind most of the downtown restaurant’s creations the late summer menu showed the kitchen firing on all cylinders, not one of sixteen plates failing to wow.

Served a number of classics, plus a trio of drinks from which the smoky Bee’s Knees was the best version of the cocktail tasted to date, suffice it to say the bacon jam, green beans, brownie, and mac & cheese all remain reference standard while a few newer items show the sort of creativity not often associated with gastropubs or upscale comfort cuisine, the spicy sloppy joe finding levity in citrus aioli while the Fried Green tomatoes give Yardbird competition for best in the city when crowned in sweet crab ravigote.

Seeing Harwell’s Southern roots in succotash that took a Mexican Street-corn turn through the addition of Cojita, as well as the clever gumbo flatbread with spicy pork and gator finding their foil in pickled okra I’d have gladly eaten like a bowl of popcorn, attention should equally be paid to the supple poached Halibut and a slab of pork belly glazed in sticky stone fruit, the former best described as taking the flaky fish and a wine pairing together in one bite, the results far better than anyone might think.

Disappointed that the seasonal banana pudding has gone into hibernation, but happy to taste an equally competent jar-dessert in the form of mixed berry shortcake that tasted faintly of Merlot amidst lavender and buttery streusel I was additionally happy to find the Bread Pudding far less sugar-laden than prior, the whole meal made better by a soundtrack heavy in 80s-era rock and service that performs the difficult trio of fun, educated, and professional.

FIVE STARS: Originally unsold on Carson Kitchen being as good as the critics have suggested it finally took a visit with persons less culinarily inclined than myself to truly make me appreciate the greatness of Harwell’s work and Simon’s vision; food for ‘everyone’ that offers enough skill and quality to keep food nerds and snobs equally engaged.

RECOMMENDED: The Bees Knees, Halibut, Tempura Green Beans, Bacon Jam, Mac & Cheese, FGT Sliders.

AVOID: Though none is listed in the ingredients, the Brewer’s Fix came across quite ‘beery’ to me.

TIP: Fall menu launches in early November with Harwell’s new concept not too far off.

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

http://carsonkitchen.com

Posted in Bread Pudding, Carson Kitchen, Dessert, Foie, Food, Ice Cream, Las Vegas, Nevada, Pork, Vacation

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Hearthstone Kitchen & Cellar [6,] Las Vegas NV

Table 10 [2,] Las Vegas NV

Salute Trattoria Italiana [2,] [3,] Las Vegas NV

Metro Pizza on Decatur, Las Vegas NV

Hash House a Go-Go at The Plaza, Las Vegas NV

Gelatology [2,] Las Vegas NV

Le Cirque [5,] Las Vegas NV

Carson Kitchen [3,] Las Vegas NV

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