Siegel’s 1941: Something for Everyone

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.  

I was solo on this visit and a man who was seated at the next table struck up a conversation with me. He liked certain dishes and hated others. After listening to him, I took a glance at the Chef’s Selection fare. 

The six-ounce filet mignon caught my attention and I quickly ordered it from the friendly waitress. An attractive plate arrived with a perfectly-cooked piece of beef that was tender and juicy. Accompanying the steak was a dollop of mashed potatoes and vegetables that were close to being succotash. At $20.00 this was a bargain. 

Other options on the select menu, served from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, are grilled pork chops, New York strip steak plus shrimp and steak fries.

Their burgers have been recommended to me by many and there is an attractive slate to choose from, all named after characters in Siegel’s life. The Lucky Luciano version has marinara, grilled onions, and mozzarella. Virginia Hill’s “Flamingo” is made with a turkey patty and includes avocado, onion rings and tomato marmalade.

They tout their slate of sandwiches as being the nation’s best and one choice is a Miami Cuban constructed with ham, pulled pork, Swiss cheese and pickles. Kentucky Hot Brown has an option of two meats: roast beef or turkey. A compelling grilled cheese sandwich can be paired with tomato bisque. The item has three cheeses: Provolone, Fontina and Boursin to keep your taste buds interested.

The all-day fare includes liver and onions, a throwback to earlier times. Asian favorites are highlighted with Shrimp Chow Mein and Big Island Fried Rice. There is also a list of daily specials like country fried steak with mashed potatoes on Tuesdays and pecan-crusted trout with a baked potato on Thursdays.

Breakfast is available anytime with buttermilk-Belgian style waffles, a three-egg omelet and smoked salmon with cream cheese, beefsteak tomatoes, red onion, capers and a bagel choice.

This is a good spot for a glass of wine as their prices are lower than many spots in the area. Higher Ground Pinot Noir is poured at $9.00 per glass. William Gray Cabernet goes for $8.00. A collection of after dinner drinks is led by Brandy Alexander with Martell VS Cognac, Crème de Cacao and cream.

With such a huge selection of entrees you definitely won’t go hungry here. Siegel’s 1941, El Cortez Hotel, 600 Fremont St., Las Vegas. (702) 385-5200. www.elcortezhotelcasino.com.