The Vegas Voice | Age 50 Plus Monthly Newspaper | Lifestyle

Modern Latin Cuisine: Chica

1/15/2019

By: Bob Gourley

When it was announced that Chica was opening up I wanted to dart over as soon as possible. Even though it took a little while longer to get there than I had thought, the visit was great. Nestled into a spot at a row of interesting restaurants at the Venetian, this location is a haven for new Latino cuisine executed by Chef Lorena Garcia. This type of food is accented with many influences including Mexican, Peruvian and South American.

Juan’s Flaming Fajitas in Henderson

12/14/2018

By: Bob Gourley

I’m not sure who Juan is but he must be a great cook, judging from the crowds at the new Juan’s Flaming Fajitas in Henderson. This location is in a brand-new building that is right next to Lovelady Micro-Brewery on Water St. The area is being re-done and Juan’s fits in well with what the city hopes will be a vibrant street scene.

A Tale of Two Menus: Bobby Mao’s

11/15/2018

By: Bob Gourley

Some restaurants have interesting stories to tell. Bobby Mao’s has two scenarios that are intriguing because of completely-separate menus, Mexican and Chinese. The new Henderson location is the second restaurant in what the owners hope is a growing chain. The first one is in Palm Desert, California and serves Chinese classics.

Siegel’s 1941: Something for Everyone

10/16/2018

By: Bob Gourley

I remember the buzz when the folks at the El Cortez Hotel announced they were remodeling the main restaurant. After a year or so, Siegel’s 1941, an ode to Bugsy Siegel, the man who put Las Vegas on the map was launched and is now a place where you can get a meal anytime of the day and at a reasonable price. With so many higher-priced entities moving into the Fremont Street area this is a nice haven for budget-conscious diners.

When I arrived, I was on the hunt for the $10.00 prime rib special. Unfortunately it wasn’t being offered even though it seems to be back on the menu now.

A Grand Place for Sweets: Bellagio Patisserie

9/14/2018

Bob Gourley

By: Bob Gurley

One of the must-sees in Las Vegas is the conservatory at the Bellagio Hotel. The season-changing scenes full of fragrant flowers do wonders to just about anyone who visits.

But there is another spot just down the hall that also puts smiles on everyone, the Bellagio Patisserie.

A Fun Evening of Food and Conversation: Benihana

8/15/2018

Bob Gourley

By: Bob Gourley

It has been a long time since I visited Benihana. In fact I haven’t been since a sojourn to the Torrance, California location a few years ago.

My wife and I have always enjoyed the dining style where you sit with a group of friends and enjoy the show. The talented knife-wielding chefs make short work of veggies and meats. And the sliced-up onion smoke tower is always a highlight.

Classic French Bistro on the Strip

7/13/2018

By: Bob Gourley

Whenever visitors ask about where to get a good steak on the Strip, I always recommend Mon Ami Gabi at Paris. There are many reasons why, including the great location that sits just across the street from the Bellagio fountain show. But the main reason is the expansive list of items and the fairly-reasonable prices.

This is a classic French bistro and the menu reflects it with everything from steak to escargots. In fact, if you want to get your meal off to a great start, order the Wild Escargots de Bourgogne with oven-roasted snails swimming in garlic-herb butter.

Something Different for Chicken Lovers: Blue Ribbon

6/15/2018

By: Bob Gourley

The number of chicken restaurants in the U.S. must be staggering. Not only are there big chains but independents are gobbling up more of the trade as well.

One of those small providers is Blue Ribbon in Summerlin. Two brothers, Eric and Bruce Bromberg started the ball rolling in New York back in 1992 and now their only west coast location is doing very well.

What makes it so good? The breading is a mix of egg whites, matzo meal and a secret collection of spices. The pieces are huge and after devouring one you will be staring at your plate wondering if you should take the rest home.

A Wealth of Options: New York Chinese Restaurant

5/18/2018

By: Bob Gourley

There is something comforting about a huge menu with just about every kind of Chinese dish you can think of. New York Chinese Restaurant in Henderson has a giant list of entrees and appetizers that will dazzle you as you look through the fare and ponder what to order.

A couple of things stand out. Not only do they have Egg Foo Young, but you can get it six different ways. Meat options include shrimp, chicken, pork and of course veggies.

Another unusual pick is Chop Suey, and once again meat picks reign supreme. Since these dishes aren’t on too many menus anymore, maybe a new generation of fans will emerge.

Big Portions and Authentic Greek Flavors: Meraki Greek Grill

4/23/2018

By: Bob Gourley

It almost feels like Zorba the Greek should be entering the building. The feel and food at Meraki Greek Grill is authentic and delicious. Nestled into a busy shopping mall, the place is often crowded with folks on their way to Summerlin and surrounding areas.

Of course, you can find a fitting Hummus on the appetizer list with a mix of garbanzo beans, tahini and lemon. But there are some other more exotic tastes like Tirokafteri made with Greek feta cheese and spicy roasted peppers. For those who like to experiment with different spreads you can order a sampling plate with pita.