New Sports Bar in Town: Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux

By: Bob Gourley
 
Sports bars have in the past had a reputation for great suds and mediocre food. In the last few years things have begun to change.
 
The newest contestant in the improved cuisine scene is Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux at Harrah’s. This one is a little hard to find as it is located upstairs and nowhere near the sports book.
 
The fare is a clever mix of both Southern favorites and American classics. A recent interview with their Marketing Director Luke Derouen established that the Vegas location is the 64th in the chain and located the most west they have ventured.

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Starters offered a few surprises including Alligator that Derouen says is one of their most popular items. Farm raised meat is marinated and then hand-battered before being served.
 
He says that the finished product is more tender than most. Other appetizers include Boudin Balls made with fried spiced pork and rice mixed together. Devils on Horseback is a combination of fried shrimp, cream cheese and pickled jalapenos wrapped in bacon.
   
Bistreaux specialties include the popular Pasta Alfredeaux with linguine, parmesan and sauce that is made fresh daily. Seafood items include Fried Catfish served with waffle fries and hush puppies.
   
As you might expect from a Southern-inspired place, a couple of Poboys stand out. I ordered the Ribeye Poboy and it was a winner.
 
A generous portion of blackened steak was enhanced with Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, garlic aioli and Dijon horseradish sitting inside bread. I can only take horseradish in small doses but this sauce didn’t interfere with the other flavors and it was quite good. Another Poboy is the Boom Boom Shrimp edition and I look forward to sampling that next time.
   
Don’t forget to consider something from the Louisiana Classics. Duck and Andouille Gumbo is one of the highlights along with Red Beans and Rice plus Crawfish Etouffee.
   
On the American side is a slate of a half dozen burgers. The Hangover is made with a sunny-side up egg and American cheese sitting inside a brioche bun. The Surf and Turf is a unique choice with blackened shellfish, caramelized onions, pickled jalapenos, Jack cheese and Thousand Island dressing.
  
Southern-style desserts have always been a hit and the list here is impressive. Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding is one that will definitely fill you up and put a smile on your face.
 
The donuts are immersed in gooey goodness. You will definitely want to share this one. Warm cookie sundaes and beignets are also part of the fare.
Derouen told me that the Vegas location is the first to serve breakfast. And you might recognize some dishes from the folks at Hash House A Go Go as they have been the consultants on the new bistro.
  
This is a spot where you can come and enjoy sporting events beaming on TV’s that are well placed around the tables and large bar area. You will definitely enjoy a cocktail from their menu.
 
Death Valley is made with Svedka Vodka, rum, triple sec, orange juice and pineapple juice. It is a new spin on the Southern classic “Hurricane.”
   
If you are looking for a quick cocktail before a show or a full meal, Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux will do the trick.
  
Harrah’s, www.walk-ons.com.