Wednesday, June 27, 2012

GAUCHOS VILLAGE



Looking for a protein overload?   Make your way to Gauchos Village in Glendale.  I don't recommend it all the time but it's worth the calories if celebrating a special occasion.  For 17.99 at lunch you can enjoy meat until you burst.
Just look at Keema's face, if you zoom in close enough I swear you can see her beginning to drool.  


The service is pretty good, the decor is authentic and you will leave full of happiness.  


If interested in a fun evening, stop by for a live samba show on Friday or Saturday at 7:45, 8:45 and 9:45.  Just a heads up the prices are more expensive for dinner so take a peek at their site to get the exact cost.


Buen Provecho!


You have no idea what's about to happen to you Mr.Meat
NO MAS...NO MAS!

BOUCHON LAS VEGAS



Not off to good start. This town is extremely servicely challenged. If I am buying a 25 dollar cocktail I expect something extraordinary.


As my first course I picked the bone marrow. The look of it was delicious but the flavor wasn't there. I also had a chance to try the octopus salad and it was on the money.


For my meal I had the trout. Nice portion size but a little too fishy for my taste.


While the hotel and decor were absolutely beautiful the rest my experience just didn't meet my expectations.


Onward and upward!


Buen provecho!




BOARDER GRILL LAS VEGAS

The next stop on my quest is Boarder Grill. I've tried the LA location and  thought it was just ok. Hopefully Vegas has a better showing.


First up is the guacamole. Meh! I still think my recipe is the best. It could definitely benefit from a little heat


Next was our taco sampler platter. Booo!...Once again my rule holds true. Authentic Mexican food should not cost $20 per plate.  If you're going to charge these prices make sure the dishes are delicious.  Dry meat and clumpy rice does not the way to win over your customers.  The only think I did enjoy was the cute and whimsy decor.  


This will be the last time I visit this restaurant.  




Burger Bar Las Vegas



Let's see what this place is all about...so many unique burgers picking just one is a tough choice.  Think, ponder, think.....


Their signature Hubert Keller it is! This has to be delicious, it's named after the owner.  Buffalo served with carmalized onions,asparagus and blue cheese on a ciabatta bun with a side of served red wine and shallots sauce. I could have built my own but I just let the staff do the work for me. 


Well I was hoping for flavor ecstasy but this combo fell flat.  However the staff was great and the overall vibe was enjoyable.  I'd definitely come back for a beer and catch a game.


My hunt continues for the ultimate meal in Vegas...


The Lodge


Small little sports bar right above RM's seafood. Nothing to write home about but definitely has friendly servers, however being called sir by the 23 year old waitress took them down a notch.


I do like the fact that they give you something to nosh on as you drink.


Stock continues to go down. I don't care if I have a sip or half a glass.... you don't take my beer without asking first!


I'd definitely skip this one next time. There has to be better sports bars in the Vegas!



RM Seafood



My trip to Vegas started off great. The drive to LAX was quick and check-in at the airport took less than 5 minutes. However, I knew it was too good to be true. Upon arrival at Mandalay Bay the registration line was an hour wait and I don't understand why windows were closed. Very poor planning on their part. Hopefully I'll get to my room soon so I can start eating at some great restaurants.


For my first stop where should I go? Rick Moonen's seafood or Burger Bar?


RM's it is! Very sleek and modern decor. The multi level eatery is unique in its offering of different dining experiences depending if you sit on the first or second floor. Also, I always love a restaurant that allows its patrons a perk in the kitchen.


To start things off I'm going with the charred octopus, bell peppers, calamata olives, potatoes and a can of Ranger IPA to wash it all down. That was funkin delicious!!!


Next up to bat is my big eye tuna which was absolutely scrumptious!


Finally I am taking on the Futo Fireball Roll (king crab, avocado,cucumber, spicy artic char, masago, kabayaki and wasabi citrus aioli). This one was my least favorite dish but tasty nonetheless. I'd skip this one next time.


Since I need to end on a high note I'm going finish things with a few oysters. Most people eat dessert...I choose shellfish!


I cant wait to return and have Ann enjoy the same experience.


Buen Provecho!