Your clients visiting Las Vegas won't want to miss The Venetian's newly opened Enoteca San Marco; it's the latest addition to the Mario Batali (of the orange clogs and Food Network fame) and Joe Bastianich family of restaurants, which also includes acclaimed New York establishments Babbo, Otto and Lupa, as well as B & B, also at The Venetian. The Enoteca's classy-yet-casual atmosphere, high-topped marble tables with views of European street performers and its extensive wine list are sure to make it a hit. Advise clients to attend a scheduled tasting with one of San Marco's wine guides, or request a personal tasting. The rock shrimp and celery root salad antipasti were excellent, as was the affetati (mixed meat) plate with prosciutto di Parma and spicy finocchiona (salami with fennel seeds). As for meat entrées, recommend the hanger steak with radicchio and the quail with eggplant parmigiana. For dessert, the artisanal handmade gelato is a must.
For VIP bookings, contact Enoteca San Marco's general manager, Michael Montalto (702-677-3390). Batali and Bastianich's next collaboration will be a restaurant in the adjacent Palazzo, set to open in early 2008.
Sensi at Bellagio Hotel & Casino
While the Bellagio has a stellar option for fine dining,
Sirio Maccioni's Le Cirque, direct clients looking for a more casual—yet still
chic—atmosphere to Sensi, which earned the AAA Four Diamond Award this year.
(Its name comes from the Italian word for senses.) Guests can view the kitchen
through large windows, and its décor features carved stone and earthy elements
accented with waterfalls and mirrored chrome. Sensi offers an international
menu of Italian, Asian, seafood and grilled meat dishes. Chef Martin
Heierling's authentic regional creations are flavorful and simple yet varied.
"The goal is food that is recognizable—grounded, bold and flavorful,"
said Heierling. Recommend the Thai marinated crab and lobster rolls, the
For reservations or special requests, call 877-2-DINE-LV (877-234-6358).