Although they say "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" in this case, not true/
I need to let you know how fabulous the restaurants are there!! We had 3 excellent meals (Joe's Stone Crabs in Caesars, Raos in MGM, Prime in the Bellagio- very very good) & one OUTSTANDING ONE! Beyond exceptional!
Aureole.
I have been to the restaurant in Manhattan.- Of Charlie Palmer fame. Excellent- top to top marks. However, I have to say our meal in Vegas at the spectacular Mandalay Bay Hotel was just incredible!
First, the decor is magnificent- rich woods, warm decor, large glass windows facing the swans swimming around in the pools,with amazing views from everywhere.
The wine list is on an I PAD, which I happen to love. I have seen this a few places recently- just a great idea and so much easier than navigating a huge leather bound book! The list is endless- white, reds, roses, champagne, all regions and fabulous. We ordered an outstanding cabernet from Sonoma. Wonderful, rich, warm ,velvety and worth every penny.
Next, they offer either a 5 course tasting with or without a wine pairing, or from the menu @ $85.pp which we decided to do and it included an appetizer and an entree ,with unlimited delicious sides , two of which were the best I have EVER tasted- ever!
( parmesan dusted french fries, fried just to a lightly golden brown,completely greaseless, and just perfect!! Next, the roasted sweet corn with fava beans and pancetta in a light cream sauce- most definitely the best and sweetest corn dish either of us ever ate!!!_ OMG! OMG!
The caesar salad came with the chilled crisp romaine leaves standing straight up wrapped in a giant parmesan crouton, served with white anchovies around the rim. The cosmopolitan of tuna tartar and thin slices of lobster with avocado had the most flavorful vinaigrette . Just sensational on every level.
The chef was kind enough to send over a few "tastings" prior to our dinner- an oyster topped with a dollop of caviar, a bit of a lobster spring roll, a mini grilled ham & cheese sandwich, among others, which were outstanding!
I was torn between the giant langostinos (giant prawns) served over the risotto with shaved white truffles , the duck breast or the fish . I chose the fish- a seared sea bass , which was so moist, pure white, with layers of flavors and just perfectly cooked. My husband had the veal loin- it didn't require a knife to cut it- it just melted in your mouth!
We were too full for dessert, but they sent over some truffles, which they also sell by the piece or the box, and the guests at the tables surrounding us had the most magnificent looking desserts! Multi color & flavor fruit sorbets, a molten chocolate cake that looked sinful and I could hear the ooos & aaahhs from their table!.
The staff - impeccable. Attentive, knowledgable and wonderful. Never did we move without our napkins being folded, our wine being re filled and poured after a few sips, beautiful silverware replaced after every course, and the entire experience was one of the best I have ever had!
I had the pleasure of meeting the chef and got a tour of the kitchen- WOW!! That is all I can say. Just the most memorable dining experience and I will return !!!!
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