Anyone familiar with dining in Las Vegas will know the name Marc Sgrizzi, his original location giving way to Pizzerias followed by a Trattoria and even a hotel venture prior to a new eponymous venture located on South Rainbow.
Self-taught, with over four decades of experience, Sgrizzi Ristorante & Bar promotes itself as a traditional Italian eatery while an attached market offers everything from import specialty goods to handmade Pasta and Desserts from Pastry Chef Roman Ritz under the name of Florentine Cafe.
Open for Dinner Tuesday through Sunday, the recent addition of Sunday Brunch from 9am to 2pm perfect for NFL football at the bar, it was on a Thursday prior to noon that a collection of Pastries were enjoyed and whether one selects better-than-average Cornetti or impressive Pan Suisse the real star are Sfogliatelle with faultless layers and lemony filling nearly as good as those in Naples.
Steak Frites, 5-day fermented, Café de Paris sauce
Deconstructed Cheesecake, Miso kabocha squash, peanut salsa roja
Serving Las Vegas since January 2022 and now a James Beard Award Foundation finalist plus Yelp! Winner for best new Restaurant, Anima by EDO merges Italian and Spanish Cuisine into an elegant experience from Chef Oscar Amador.
Run by industry veterans from front-of-house to kitchen it is following warm greetings at the door that guests are led to a choice of diverse seating options, banquets in the back most quiet with a full view of murals from local artist Apolo Torres.
More “approachable” than EDO Gastro Tapas & Wine per General Manager Roberto Liendo, though certainly never lacking for creativity, Dinner at Anima begins with Appetizers ranging from classic Tomato Bread and Jamon to savory Churros with Caviar and all the traditional garnishes.
Not forgetting fresh Shellfish, first Tom Kha Scallops then Spot Prawn Aguachile with edible Heads, Bluefin Tuna referenced the classic Basque Pintxo prior to indulgent French Toast topped in Uni and Truffles.
Adding Oscar’s Vegan Tartare by request, a prior favorite of the Chef at this table, tender Octopus took on Japanese and Latin influence prior to caramelized Bone Marrow lined in Escargot.
Largely off-menu for this tasting, a meal originally intended for EDO transported to The Gramercy, Eggs in a glass got upgraded by Duck Liver prior to an all-Socarrat Paella preceded by the defiantly-delicious blend of Mushrooms, ‘Nduja and White Chocolate.
The second visit in thirteen days, an all-new Steak setup adding EDO’s layered Potatoes plus an intense Sauce with Curry, Mustard and Anchovies, Dessert fused sweet and savory via sweet Cream Cheese. Miso-glazed Squash and piquant Peanut Salsa.
Despite signage suggesting Summer House Santa Monica the location inside Durango Casino & Resort is actually Lettuce Entertain You’s first branch of the “California-inspired Restaurant” out west, and regardless of what might be inside the Cookie Bar out front is a sight for sore eyes.
Taking a Spago-esque approach to Market-fresh fare, think Pizzas and Pastas plus plates from an all-wood grill, it is for roughly $5-6 each that guests will find a dozen or more daily baked good including everything from classic Chocolate Chip with big dark chunks to Rice Crispy Treats with or without bits of Oreo in the mix.
A natural feeling space bathed in light, Rockwell Group taking on LEYE’s first off-Strip venture, guests not fond of Cocoa will find “Birthday Cake” far outpacing crumbl’s famous Frosted Cookie while both glazed Lemon and Peanut Butter eat soft and chewy within a gently crisp rim.
Always impressing with an Oatmeal Scotchie, think crispy but sweet with just a bit of flex, Summer House’s Apple Oatmeal Cookie reminisces of Autumn Apple Crisp in portable form while the “Cookie in a Cup” offers bite-sized bits of the whole collection.
Last visited before its most recent renovation, even then considered one of Sin City’s most gorgeous Restaurants, PRIME Steakhouse at Bellagio has recently been under the guidance of Chef Sean Griffin whose work at Jean Georges Steakhouse proved reason enough to make reservations at the venerable institution for date night.
Now with added mirrors, chandeliers and new serviceware it was at prime windowside two-top that guests were seated, the Bellagio fountains dancing at intervals while a mix of Rat Pack and old Hip Hop chimed quietly overhead.
Served by a team of at least four, Sommelier John Burke still present, it was in four courses that two-hours were spent indulging; the Ingredient sourcing, portions, and preparations certainly justifying prices that seem high even by Vegas standards.
Far more classic than SW or Ramsay and certainly more elegant than Delmonico or CUT, the evening began with bubbles alongside a basket of Bread preceding a trio of Appetizers from which sugar-crusted Duck Liver stood out thanks to Mangoes while thinly-sliced Beef and a vibrant Fruit Salad were also very good.
No doubt a place with more than just Beef to offer, though the options for Steaks are plentiful from domestic Ribeye to Japanese A5, it was on the lady’s request that a Seafood Tower crowned by Sashimi and Caviar also proceeded Medium-rare Beef sliced tableside and delicate Sea Bass in Citrus with fresh Herbs.
Also a Cheese Souffle, simultaneously light yet decadent, Sides are simple yet perfectly executed whether it be gooey Mac n’ Cheese, tempura Squash or Crucifers including Broccoli and Cauliflower each dressed to impress.
Upping the ante for Dessert, almost entirely new, PRIME’s Ice Cream Pie remains alongside slices including Black Forest Cake and Lemon Pie with Meringue piled high that still have trouble keeping pace with baked-to-order Cookies.
Located adjacent Shanghai Plaza at 4240 Spring Mountain Road California’s Mr. BBQ entered a growing All-You-Can-Eat Korean Barbeque scene in late-2022, the term “P.A.Y.C.E.” suggesting premium quality at a price of $48.99.
Open 11am until 11pm or later daily, a lively atmosphere plus pop-art and booming music creating a scene completed by televisions showing sports, it was without a wait that six guests sat down to dinner where grills with hidden ventilation assure patrons won’t go home smelling like smoke.
Offering Soju Cocktails, Korean Beers and Soft Drinks, the former highlighted by Slushies and another thickened by Yogurt, Banchan arrives fast featuring everything from Kimchi and Sea Cucumber to airy Potato Salad and marinated Radishes.
Served at a suitable pace with grills changed quickly Proteins run the gamut from Prime Ribeye to Galbi, the Wagyu Beef Tongue previously unseen but entirely delicious as was the Pork Jowl and Belly.
Also conjuring up Stews and Egg Souffle, plus Offal for the brave, additional highlights include Squid and Chicken marinated in fiery Gochujang and a scoop of Ice Cream that comes just before an admittedly modest check.
Family owned and operated from the start, Dominic Sang bringing family recipes from a Texas Doughnuttery to Sin City in October 2015, guests entering Glaze Doughnuts will notice little has since changed about the shop in nearly a decade while their soft base and creative toppings earn “Best of Las Vegas” accolades annually.
Located on Fort Apache Road, fair prices and friendly service undoubtedly part of Glaze’s appeal, what the shop lacks in selection is more than made up for in quality compared to the likes of Dunkin, Krispy Kream or other spots nearby.
Largely built on Yeast Rings, though undersized Fritters perform admirably, fans of simplicity will find Maple Frosting far more subtle than most while Chocolate and Vanilla Glaze are also of excellent quality with or without additions such as Cereal or Candy.
Not over-the-top, but balanced and complex, Caramel and Pecan dazzle atop a fluffy leavened base while Peanut Butter and Oreo do the same, though if one is seeking Glaze’s top choice the decision comes down to Blueberry Cinnamon Toast, Churros and Horchata or Matcha Green Tea Pistachio that delivers sweetness beneath toasty notes.
Located at 8390 West Sahara after a stint at Town Square Solamente Pizza comes from Special Education teacher Ethan Spiezer, a passion for Pizza flourishing during the pandemic where extra time at home saw him build knowledge by YouTube before deciding to pursue a place of his own.
Widely promoted by “influeners” and Yelp!, plus the occasional mention by industry veterans, Solamente Pizza suggests a “unique dining experience” featuring naturally fermented high-hydration Dough that eats akin to other Neapolitan spots in town.
Occupying a former French Bakery or three, Suite 130 now decorated in juvenile art with an arcade game and origami, Friday night found Solamente mostly empty with the oven billowing smoke over the lip and a smell best described as “chimney.”
Still relatively new to the area, a few kinks expected but tougher to tolerate at $20+ per Pie, kudos are due for a willingness to offer unique Toppings, but between the “Spicy Special” and “Bianca Miel” Crust structure varied widely with the former’s crumb more open while ice-cold Dessert Pizza wastes good toppings on a base akin to the paper plate it arrives on.
BUCATINI, short rib ragu, vodka sauce, parmesan, basil
HANGER STEAK, potato mousseline, sherry- black pepper sauce
CHOCOLATE CREMOSO, Dark Chocolate Fudge, Olive Oil, Sea Salt, Crostini
Serving Las Vegas since January 2022 and now a James Beard Award Foundation finalist plus Yelp! Winner for best new Restaurant, Anima by EDO merges Italian and Spanish Cuisine into an elegant experience from Chef Oscar Amador.
Run by industry veterans from front-of-house to kitchen it is following warm greetings at the door that guests are led to a choice of diverse seating options, banquets in the back most quiet with a full view of murals from local artist Apolo Torres.
More “approachable” than EDO Gastro Tapas & Wine per General Manager Roberto Liendo, though certainly never lacking for creativity, Dinner at Anima begins with Appetizers ranging from classic Pan con Tomate to upgraded Tomato Hummus and Oscar’s Green Tartare.
Not forgetting Striploin Carpaccio, or Duck Liver wrapped in Hamachi unveiled by a swirl of smoke, Eggplant “Parm” looks different in the hands of Chef Tayden but still tastes great while Bucatini in Vodka Sauce receives layers of complexity by slowly braised Beef.
Ending savories with Steak, the safe choice for a work event, it was with several first time diners promising a fast return that Anima’s Chocolate “Cremoso” sealed the deal by seamlessly marrying light with rich.
Risen like a phoenix from the ashes of Ramir Bolanos DeCastro’s beloved Purple Potato it is as a Bakery that the former Yonaka Chef’s legacy continues to grow via Donuts, Cookies, Ube-based treats and Filipino Pastries.
Previously offered for delivery or takeout only, but now brick and mortar at 6370 W Flamingo Rd #20, it was Tuesday that seventeen items were procured for tasting and shared by a group during workhours.
Never actually gone from the local food scene, the rebranding of Yonaka and Purple Potato followed by a consulting gig at LAS, Chef DeCastro’s current lineup continues with Croissant, Ring and Polvoron Bismarck Donuts, this day featuring a dozen varieties ranging from Pistachio to Salted Yema and several styles featuring Flan.
Also bringing back the Banana Bread for cooler weather, plus new items for each holiday, fans of things besides Donuts will be delighted to know Ramir recently added Ube Cheese Bars plus a Brownie that is thicker and better.
The only place in town for Ensaymada, traditional Cheese or Ube Cream, additional specials such as the Tres Leches Cake and Cookies sell out early for good reason even though the Buko Pie remains Purple Potato’s best item.
Born in Logan Utah Crumbl took the city by storm, their Instagramable rounds offered in thirty stores across six states by 2019 and now in all fifty states with six in Las Vegas including the Durango location opened in May 2020.
Created by Sawyer Hemsley and Jason McGowan, rapid expansion through franchising yielding mixed results from store to store as evidence by Social Media, it was after nine variable experiences that the westside storefront proved competent, the staff exceedingly pleasant while describing each choice.
Undoubtedly popular in part due to photogenicity, though a sterile interior oversells the fact that everything is made from scratch, the first thing those entering will notice is Crumbl’s limited collection of just six weekly flavors, though occasionally one may find “Mystery Cookies” including specials from the previous week.
Still a young company, so much success despite only starting in September 2017 certainly enviable, best bites came from specials that included “Tres Leches Cake,” a nice texture with complexity added by Biscoff while the Sugar Cookie is executed as it aught to be.
Offered onsite or via delivery from 8am until at least 10pm Monday through Saturday it was next “Brookie” took on the namesake before “Peanut Butter Cookie featuring Reese’s Pieces” doubled down with good effect.
Again finding “Cake” concepts better than the Cookies by which crumbl made their name suffice it to say “Rob’s Backstage Caramel Popcorn Cookie” is a lot of fun while Strawberry Milk Cookie fares a bit artificial, as might be anticipated.
Since 1973 Farm Basket has been a local favorite in Sin City, the outpost on West Charleston still going strong from 10am until 9pm daily even as other locations have come and gone across the years.
Recently changing ownership again, historic signage maintained alongside longtime catchphrase “Carried Away with Quality,” guests old and new will discover a concise menu centered on Chicken and Turkey served in various ways plus sides and drinks.
Undoubtedly an icon, nearly 50 years of business a rarity in Las Vegas, service is friendly and fast while portions prove generous across Coleslaw, velvety Mashed Potatoes and the “Gobbler” featuring Fried Turkey Breast on a Toasted Hoagie with sides of Cranberry Sauce and Miracle Whip.
Sticking to classics in the age of Social Media, @FarmBasketChicken occasionally adding contests or specials, Fried Chicken proves juicy whether as Strips or on the Bone beneath crunchy Batter while “Clucketos” see pulled Poultry wrapped in Corn Tortillas beneath shredded Lettuce and Cheese.
Known for housemade Rolls with Citrus Butter, enjoyable with a bit less rise than prior, the Fries come crisp and golden while Mashed Potatoes reminisce of KFC right down to the texture and Gravy.
Now expanded to Dallas and the Southwest Vegas Valley 4 years after opening, despite growing competition, it was as a party of three that diners once again enjoyed an outstanding meal at ShangHai Taste on Thursday.
Tucked inside Suite 104 of a two-story complex on the corner of Arville Street and Spring Mountain Road, a ground floor flagship since day one, it is upon entry that eyes are immediately drawn to Chinese-born Chefs working inside the restaurant’s glass prep-room, and with Chef Jimmy Li’s time at 3 Villages, 1900 Asian Cuisine and Niu Gu well-known to fans the fact that everything on-site is made from scratch should come as no surprise.
Seating approximately 40 guests from 11:00am until 9:00pm seven-days-a-week it was with warm greetings that twelve items were received, many old favorites but some items not enjoyed in a while.
Affordable without skimping on Ingredients, all thanks to Chef Li and Joe Muscaglione’s dedication, a distinctive feel is ensured by the fact that almost every single item on-site is imported from or near Shanghai, and starting with Soup Dumplings, or XLB, fans will be happy to know ShangHai Taste’s set a high standard whether made with Pork, Shrimp, Crab or Beef.
Able to accommodate most dietary preferences, fried Soup Dumplings in two varieties a winner to all but vegans, those eschewing all Animal products will likely gravitate to green Dumplings, though even more interesting bites are found in the form of Cold Bean Curd Noodles slicked in Scallion Oil or sticky-sweet Wheat Gluten.
Built on family recipes handed down to Chef Li, his Fat Noodles with choice of Protein always a crowd-pleaser, Dumplings taste wonderful with or without spicy Oil or Soy while Fried Rice rivals the best in town.
Established in 2020, but finally with a storefront that officially opened August of 2024, bake the Cookie Shoppe comes from a group of friends focused on making better Cookies than franchises like Crave or Crumbl and based on 3 visits so far the results are impressive across the whole collection.
Part of Vandrey Plaza on South Decatur, just North of Sunset and the I-215, it is inside a small space that guests will discover a dozen or more daily flavors ranging from “No Chip” with just the Dough to seasonal inspirations such as Caramel Apple.
Sold for $4 per round, each individually packaged before entering a branded box and bag, fans of Filippino flavors will be excited to know Ube shines brightly whether on its own or fused with Oreo Cookies while pale green Guava Cheese offers Latin layers to a soft Sugar Cookie.
Happily delivering orders over $65 for free locally, or shipping nationally for a fee, additional classics come in the form of soft Chocolate Chip or Peanut Butter, though those in search of bake’s best bites should strongly consider gooey Oreo Milkshake or Dubai Chocolate with Pistachio.
Described as a “Faith-based” business Abel’s Bagels opened late-2022 at 7150 S Durango Blvd Suite #130, owner Nick Pace of an organic juice bar in Roslyn New York hoping to bring “authentic” New York Bagels to Sin City along with other favorites from “Nook’s Organic.”
Inspired by the Bible’s Abel and Mr. Pace’s commitment to quality it is from 7am Monday through Saturday and 8am Sunday that Abel’s offers not only hand-rolled, boiled and baked rounds but also Sandwiches, Smoothies and Acai Bowls.
Sourcing good Ingredients and Coffee, high-gluten Flour the backbone of any proper Bagel, Abel’s collection includes all the favorites save for Egg while Cream Cheese is offered on its own or with up to three mix-ins ranging from Fruits or Vegetables to Macha and Peanut Butter.
Friendly in terms of service, though prone to selling out of top choices early on weekends, Bagels run $1.75 a piece with discounts by the dozen for specimens with a good skin and light crackle that quickly gives way to a chewy center that performs at nearly New York standards whether flecked in Seeds or dotted with Raisins.
Now with eight locations including the Las Vegas hotspot in Shanghai Plaza Sul & Beans brings Korean Shaved Ice to town by way of California, a simple design built for efficiency without taking away from the experience.
Literally “Snow and Beans,” though the narrow space also serves Tea plus baked-to-order Taiyaki, guests are greeted by smiling faces and a large LED menu while examples of various Bingsoo reside in a glass case next to a list of specials.
Focused on fresh Ingredients, Green Grapes and Mango currently among them, prices range $12.50-$14.95 for sharable bowls topped in Beans, Mochi, Fruits, Powders, Creams and more.
Using two machines in the open kitchen, an average order served in roughly 15-20 minutes depending on time of day, Ice is not quite so light as Kakigori but nonetheless quite nice while Taro and Black Sesame both feature textural additions plus subtle sweetness.
Born in Logan Utah Crumbl took the city by storm, their Instagramable rounds offered in thirty stores across six states by 2019 and now in all fifty states with six in Las Vegas including the Durango location opened in May 2020.
Created by Sawyer Hemsley and Jason McGowan, rapid expansion through franchising yielding mixed results from store to store as evidence by Social Media, it was after nine variable experiences that the westside storefront proved competent, the staff exceedingly pleasant while describing each choice.
Undoubtedly popular in part due to photogenicity, though a sterile interior oversells the fact that everything is made from scratch, the first thing those entering will notice is Crumbl’s limited collection of just six weekly flavors, though occasionally one may find “Mystery Cookies” including specials from the previous week.
Still a young company, so much success despite only starting in September 2017 certainly enviable, best bites came from specials that included “Salted Caramel Cheesecake,” a nice texture with mellow sweetness while the Snickerdoodle is executed as it aught to be.
Offered onsite or via delivery from 8am until at least 10pm Monday through Saturday it was next “Galaxy Brownie” took on the namesake before “Blueberry Muffin” riffed well on its namesake.
Again finding “Cake” concepts better than the Cookies by which crumbl made their name suffice it to say the “Skillet Cookie”is best served warm Ice Cream or not and the Marshmallow Sandwich Cookie is most certainly big enough to share with a friend.
Family owned and operated from the start, Dominic Sang bringing family recipes from a Texas Doughnuttery to Sin City in October 2015, guests entering Glaze Doughnuts will notice little has since changed about the shop in nearly a decade while their soft base and creative toppings earn “Best of Las Vegas” accolades annually.
Located on Fort Apache Road, fair prices and friendly service undoubtedly part of Glaze’s appeal, what the shop lacks in selection is more than made up for in quality compared to the likes of Dunkin, Krispy Kream or other spots nearby.
Largely built on Yeast Rings, though undersized Fritters perform admirably, fans of simplicity will find Maple Frosting far more subtle than most while Chocolate and Vanilla Glaze are also of excellent quality with or without additions such as Cereal or Candy.
Not over-the-top, but balanced and complex, Caramel and Pecan dazzle atop a fluffy leavened base while Peanut Butter and Oreo do the same, though if one is seeking Glaze’s top choice the decision comes down to Blueberry Cinnamon Toast, Churros and Horchata or Matcha Green Tea Pistachio that delivers sweetness beneath toasty notes.
Unquestionably Las Vegas’ top choice for French Pastry over the past 9+ years Rosallie Le French Café continues to show well on-site or to-go, a Tuesday morning delivery finding Pastries carefully arranged with several new items and both the Croissants as well as the Tarts still the best in town.
Another year and another list, more informed than many but less so than others and every bit as subjective. In the end I find the exercise of cementing an order to the year’s “best” moments more and more helpful as time goes on. If nothing else I’ll have a quick reference when (or if) memories start to fade, right?
Overall 2024 was a good one for me despite very little actual change. Four “big” trips including one with family, plus the usual side quests for concerts and sports helped to break up a day-to-day that I truly do love. Sure a few small issues cropped up along the way, but on the whole progress greatly outweighed any setbacks.
In terms of dining suffice it to say that oceanfront destinations are rarely for the epicure, though learning to drive on the opposite side of the road is far easier in Fiji than it is in London. That noted, thanks to friends both new and old there was no shortage of great meals from Houston to Hong Kong whether on a beach, in a mall or along a lonely mountain road outside Florence.
I read a meme earlier this year that said “I don’t have a favorite place. I have my favorite people. And whenever I’m with my favorite people, it becomes my favorite place.” I disagree. I’d much rather eat solo at any of the places listed below than with friends at Applebee’s, but as the de facto organizer this is rarely an issue and I’m forever grateful that this little hobby now entering its 19th year has let me see so many great things and meet so many amazing people.
What follows is a list of the most memorable meals and bites over the last 365-days, many of them literally “the best” while others may have shined brighter than they normally would have due to the circumstances. Thanks to all the Chefs, GMs and Servers involved and equally as much to those who I was fortunate enough to break Bread with. As with last year, only one item per Restaurant in each category.
