RESTAURANTS

Restaurants

There was a time when Las Vegas' restaurants were known more for quantity than cuisine. This was due to the legendary casino buffets which offered mountains of food for modest prices on the well calculated assumption that diners would hit the tables or slots machines to work off their meal. Today however, Las Vegas has a large selection of world-class eateries, with Italian trattoria, classic French fine-dining and luxury steakhouses especially well represented. Some of the country's top chefs are now based here and exciting new restaurants open weekly. In addition, Vegas is home to several world-class sommeliers. All this increasing activity and greater competition means that Vegas offers decent value for money compared to other large cities. The net result is that the former capital of the 99c shrimp cocktail is now a regarded as a global cuisine capital. When it comes to eating at least, the odds are really in your favour.

Andre�s at Monte Carlo

$$$$$ | French

Most of the glitzy Las Vegas hotel resorts feature French restaurants, but Andre Rochat's latest contribution is exceptional. Extreme fine dining here includes fresh seafood, poultry and vegetarian dishes - don't miss the signature dish, Scampi André, or perhaps try the Rack of Colorado Lamb. Andre's is known for its excellent stocks and sauces, as well as its fine pastry. Open daily, reservations essential.

Address: 3770 Las Vegas Blvd.; E-mail: info@andrelv.com; Telephone: (702) 798 7151

Pamplemousse

$$$$$ | French

Just 500 yards from 'The Strip', Pamplemousse provides a quiet dining oasis reminiscent of a cosy French country inn, with soft orchestral music in the background to accompany the gourmet fare. There is no menu. Waiters knowledgably recite the specialities of the day, which usually include the renowned Hobo Steak, Norwegian salmon, roast duckling, veal medallions, filet mignon and spring lamb. The appetisers and desserts are just as mouth-watering including the famous trademark Basket of Crudités. Reservations are essential. Open daily for dinner. Dress smart casual (no jackets required, but appreciated).

Address: 400 East Sahara Avenue; E-mail: pamplemousse@cox.net; Telephone: (702) 733 2066

Golden Steer Steakhouse

$$$$$ | American

The Steer, about a mile from 'The Strip', is the oldest steak house in Las Vegas having been in business in the same spot since 1958, and still a favourite with thousands of loyal diners. Celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Elvis Presley frequented the Steer to enjoy the large and perfectly grilled traditional steaks, especially the Diamond Jim cut of prime rib. Fish, chicken and some Italian dishes are on offer too, and a selection of interesting appetisers - try the seafood stuffed mushrooms. Lunch and dinner Monday to Friday, dinner Saturdays and Sundays.

Address: 308 W. Sahara Avenue; Telephone: (702) 384 4470

Marrakech

$$$$$ | Moroccan

Exotic and exciting dining is offered in a cosy Middle-Eastern tent where diners lounge on cushions on the floor, or on comfy low couches, to enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal. Robed waiters explain the six-course fixed-price menus, while belly dancers gyrate provocatively. The meals are accompanied by homemade Moroccan bread and, if offered, be sure to try the filet mignon (marinated and grilled in Moroccan spices). Algerian wines are available. Open for dinner nightly. Reservations required.

Address: 3900 Paradise Road; Telephone: (702) 737 5611

Mon Ami Gabi

$$$$$ | French

Few restaurants can claim sidewalk space on the famous Las Vegas Strip, where diners can watch the passing parade. Mon Ami Gabi, emulating a Paris brasserie, does just that with not only an outdoor section, but a glass conservatory and several indoor dining rooms as well. The cuisine on offer is mainly classic French steak frites and fruits de mêr with flavoursome sauces. Their braised pork shank, and the steak with blue cheese sauce, are subliminal. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Address: 3655 S. Las Vegas Boulevard; Telephone: (702) 944 4224

Rosemary�s Restaurant

$$$$$ | American

Husband and wife team, Michael and Wendy Jordan, share their passion for cooking with guests at their award-winning restaurant, named after Michael's mother, on the Las Vegas West Side. The cuisine spans all regions of America but leans heavily to the southern side, with signature dishes being roast lamb, brick chicken and Texas barbecued shrimp. The fish dishes are renowned, the appetisers unusual and the desserts delicious. Lunch Monday to Friday, dinner nightly. Reservations suggested.

Address: 8125 West Sahara Avenue; Telephone: (702) 869 2251

Chicago Joe�s

$$$$$ | Italian

Italian restaurants abound in Las Vegas, both on and off The Strip, but for really good home-cooked food and excellent value, the unimposing brick building housing Chicago Joe's, in the residential downtown area, is a sure bet. The pasta sauces are renowned among locals, all reputedly recipes handed down by the owner's family through generations. Try the pasta with eggplant (aubergine/brinjal) or white clam sauce, or perhaps the Lobster Joe. Open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Friday; Saturday dinner only.

Address: 820 South 4th Street; Telephone: (702) 382 5637