October 17, 2007

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Vegas Vittles--Help!

After I dined at the delicious and intriguing Minibar last month, I vowed that the “great haute cuisine binge of 2007” was over. After all, I had visited Morimoto, wd-50, and Cyrus (in addition to having some exceptional meals here in DC)—the food gods had blessed me verily, and I should back off the ol’ wallet until 2008.

So much for good intentions.

Turns out I’m going to Las Vegas (for the first time ever, I might add) in November for a conference. And as much as I’d like to be good, I can’t pass up such an interesting and potentially delicious dining opportunity. So, my planning has begun…

Here’s what I’m thinking: I could have one over-the-top meal, an experience to stand up to the ones I had in Philadelphia, New York, and Sonoma. There are MANY options for expensive dining in Vegas, but I don’t just want the top-notch price tag. I want top-notch food and service that will make me happy that I blew my weekly per diem on one meal. So far, I’m thinking Guy Savoy, but there’s also Joel Robuchon (actually, there’s two options there, the Mansion and L’Atelier). Any thoughts?

There aren’t too many middle-ground places—in other words, not nickel slots, but not high-roller, either. I’ve heard that Rosemary’s is great, but it’s off the Strip (so cab fare has to be factored in). However, it looks like I can get a deal on Wednesday night that would place it squarely in the “average” price range. Burger Bar (Hubert Keller’s casual place at the Mandelay Bay) would probably fit this bill as well, as long as I didn’t go and order the Kobe beef burger with foie gras.

Then there are the “value” places. I have decided that I will, at some point, haul myself off the Strip to dine at In ‘N Out Burger (to see what all the damn fuss is about). I also plan on trekking to Lotus of Siam, which is surprisingly cheap for what’s supposed to be the greatest Thai food in the country.

No reservations have been made (though one near-certainty is a breakfast at Bouchon), so feel free to help a sister out. I look forward to your comments and suggestions!

Posted by bettyjoan at October 17, 2007 4:42 PM | Comments (3) | EatFoo 1.0 Posts


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I have been to Vegas about 35 times over the past few years on an expense account and have eaten at many of the fancy restaurants Vegas has to offer. In the expensive but not outrageous category, I would recommend L'Atlier. They have a nine course tasting menu that will run you around $150. I found it innovative and different and generally a lot of fun. Plus, you get the added fun of sitting at a bar and watching the food preparation. In the less expensive, but always solid, category is Bouchon. I have probably eaten there 10 times and never have I been disappointed. It will run you around $50-$75 for three courses. It's not the most innovative restaurant in the world, but it is always solid and the service is amazing.

Also of note: Fleur de Lys in Mandalay Bay for a more classic dining experience.

Not recommended: Daniel Boulod in the Wynn.

Posted by: AKTP at October 21, 2007 4:26 PM


Thanks so much for your feeback. I ended up making dinner reservations at L'Atelier, Rosemary's, and Lotus of Siam. I tried to make a breakfast reservation at Bouchon, but they said to just come on in. Looks like I'll be coming home heavier in the tummy and lighter in the wallet! If only I could win enough at Blackjack to pay for my eating habits...

Posted by: bettyjoan at October 25, 2007 2:33 PM


You have to love Fat Burger... it's the must do before you can leave. Classy? Not at all. Expensive? Not at all. It's just a great burger. For Vegas, we go every year. We've tried the multi-expensive feasts and the way cheap treats. Every year, there are staples that keep proving themselves. The oasis buffet at the Aladin (name may have changed) is bar none the best buffet there... very good food, Noodle Asia hidden in the back of the Venetian's casino is phenomenal, and of course Fat Burger is just a great burger.

Posted by: Fred Posner at November 8, 2007 11:10 AM

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