cowtowncyn's Profile
family gathering (Las Vegas)
I second the motion for Mon Ami Gabi at Paris. It's more of a pseudo-French bistro-esque sort of place, as opposed to the real thing, but it's a well done immitation, attractive and the food is usually pretty good (although I've had the occasional disappointment). They do large parties well - I've dined as part of a work-related group of 20 - with excellent service. And a little something for everyone on the menu. You should come in well under $100/pp. And the kids will be welcome.
Vegas - hilton, cocktails and Batali
Dined at B&B several months ago. Decor is sophisticated - dark, black accents. We were off to a bad start when they didn't have the reservation I'd made by phone 6 days before. However, they did the right thing and got us in quickly. And they were packed (our reservation was for 8:30). Service was leisurely at best -- we didn't see a server, or a menu, for at least 15-20 mins. Then it took forever for the sommelier to arrive. He, at least, was apologetic and made up for the wait by making an excellent wine recommendation well within our price range. Our waiter, on the other hand, could have used a refresher course in people skills. We knew way more about him by the end of the meal than we really needed to. The food -- good. Expected to have my socks knocked off, but didn't. If I returned, I'd sit at the bar and order several small plates -- that's the menu area where I found the most interesting dishes. This is definitely not classic Italian. Includes dishes with rabbit and ox tail (that's Mario!). The environment is definitely relaxing, so I think you'd be comfortable. Just depends on how adventurous a diner you are. And it's not inexpensive, but nothing in Vegas is.
Any Recent Experiences at Andre's?
Chef Andre Rochat is now at Alize at The Palms. Haven't dined there. Have heard both good and bad.
Vegas restaurant suggestions (MGM, Wynn, Palms)
Kicking in my two cents worth on Daniel Boulud -- just ate there last week. Arrived shortly after 9:00 on a Saturday night (as a walk-in, not something we'd normally do, but it was a strange day....). Anyway, they weren't very busy and happily took us to a lovely table. This is such a pretty restaurant. The service was excellent -- very attentive. The sommelier was really helpful. The food was very good, although I thought the coconut broth the mussels were in was a bit too salty for my taste. But overall - a successful, and romantic, dinner.
Just as an aside, a couple years ago I dined at DB with a large group, all female, who were not only a bit on the tipsy side, they were penny-pinching like crazy. Yes, they were my friends and yes, I was embarassed. But our server had the patience of a saint and was wonderful, treating us as if we were high-rolling Hollywood royalty, or something. And heaven knows he didn't need to be. I've had a soft spot in my heart for DB ever since!
