4 GOURMET RESTAURANTS TO TRY IN VEGAS NEXT WEEK
1. MEAT UP FOR DINNER: A carnivore’s delight, Bavette’s Steakhouse & Bar at the Monte Carlo serves up dry-aged bone-in ribeyes, zestfully seasoned lamb chops and thick-cut bacon gleaming under a sinful maple syrup glaze — all in a setting reminiscent of the chicest Gilded Age eateries (highlighted by a mix of vintage art and murals by acclaimed artist David Plunkert). If you’re not a meat lover, don’t worry: there are sumptuous seafood specialties, classic cocktails, and decadent desserts to satisfy your taste buds, as well. (3770 Las Vegas Blvd S. 702-730-6700).
2. PYRAMID SCHEME: The minute you step inside the striking, pyramid-shaped entrance of Cleo at the newly-opened W Hotel, you will be instantly transported by the intoxicating aromas of the open kitchen where chef Danny Elmaleh creates his acclaimed contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. Choose from a wide array of marvelous mezzes, fabulous flatbreads, sumptuous sliders, tempting tagines and more, all complemented by a wide selection of exquisite cocktails, fine wines, beers and other luscious libations. (2535 Las Vegas Blvd S. 702-761-7612).
3. ALL IN A ROE: The days of the buffet being the “budget” option are long gone in Sin City, and nowhere is that more evident than at The Buffet at Bellagio. In addition to recent additions to its menu, ranging from snow crab to wild boar, the signature attraction is the “Caviar Experience,” where a chef attendant oversees the station, personally creating fresh house-made blinis and miniature buckwheat waffles filled with one’s choice of fish eggs and topped (on request) with traditional garnishes of chopped egg, onions and crème fraiche. How decadent! (3600 Las Vegas Blvd S. 866-259-7111).
4. FROM ITALY WITH LOVE: From its spectacular lagoon-side dining area to its sumptuous interior, the Wynn Las Vegas’ seafood palace Costa di Mare is fit for a king or queen. Executive chef Mark LoRusso focuses on sustainably sourced Mediterranean seafood, including imperial red prawns and handmade cuttlefish ink tagliatelle with shrimp, lobster, and spinach. The restaurant also offers guests two tasting menu options (one served family style, while the other is a plated tasting of unique items arriving from Italy). Mangia! (3131 Las Vegas Blvd S. 702-770-3305).