In 2006, Tanya and I hosted a dinner for some clients and friends in Las Vegas, NV. Neither of us really knew where we should hold this dinner, but knew we wanted an upscale steakhouse. I asked around and many times the suggestion of Smith & Wollensky came up. We checked out their menu online and decided that we would try it out.

Since the dinner was going to be attended by 25-30 people, we had to prepare a menu ahead of time. I love crab cake but Tanya never had it before. She likes mac & cheese and that just brought back memories of growing up poor to me. Certain things I would never order today, with mac and cheese being right up there with spaghetti. As a compromise, I agreed to the mac and cheese if she would agree to the crab cakes. I figured this would be a great deal for me, because if she did not like it, I could have hers, and who cares about mac and cheese? Right?

Wrong.

Smith & Wollensky, Las Vegas offers a Truffled Macaroni and Cheese that is unbelievable. Seriously, if I had to choose between crab cakes and their mac and cheese, I am going to opt for the latter. Now be advised, even though Smith & Wollensky is a chain, not all of their locations serve the same sides. We have gone to their locations in Chicago and New York City, and for some reason NYC did not serve it. I forget what their substitute was, but it did not compare.

We recently returned to the Las Vegas location as it has become a staple of ours when we visit. As is the norm, I took photos of the meal.

I particularly enjoy their Oscar Style Filet Mignon, but I tried Tanya’s Simply Grilled Filet and found it to be quite enjoyable. As far as sides are concerned, you have to try the Truffled Macaroni and Cheese. Do yourself a favor and try the Wollensky Salad. I am a huge salad fan and I think this is one of the best salads served anywhere. If you save room for dessert (do it) it is pretty much a toss up between their carrot cake and the cheesecake. Carrot cake is my favorite cake of all, so I do lean towards it.

The place is not cheap, but it is good food, with good service and a nice atmosphere. Expect to pay about $150 a person with wine, dessert and tip figured in. Your rates may vary depending on the wine and how much of it.

[mappress]