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| - During a stay at the Wynn, my family wanted a quick and casual meal on the property without breaking the bank. We had youngsters and our parents weren't in the mood for "fine" dining, so we decided to try a "family style" meal at the Red 8 Restaurant. We had 8 people in our group: 3 senior citizens, a couple of young adults and younger ones.
Upon entering the restaurant, I immediately noticed how quiet things were. Aside from another small group that came in close to when we were trying to leave, the restaurant was completely empty. I actually like when things are quiet because the service is usually better, but it was not so at the Red 8. We were the ONLY guests in the restaurant but they managed to ignore us for long stretches and disappear to the back. They took our order and brought out the food...and that was basically all we saw of our waitperson. Of course, this meant that we had to wait a ridiculous amount of time to get our bill and pay for it, not to mention empty glasses and a bunch of unsatisfied family members, but bad restaurant experiences happen, right?
Before I get to the food, I should say a few words about the restaurant. It was red, clean, modern, didn't look like your typical Chinese restaurant (but the Wynn isn't trying to give you the typical), and was very dark. Our parents couldn't see anything, but I can see how they might have been trying to create an intimate or romantic ambiance with the dim lighting. It really didn't do anything for me, but I can see how some people might like it or be impressed. You know what they say about dim restaurants - it's dark so you can't see the food.
I have only been here once because I do not have a reason to return despite my numerous stays at the Wynn. Your experience may be different, hopefully better than mine, though I'm not sure if I'd even take a chance considering the plentiful options and my overall experience at the Red 8. Basically, the food is very similar to what you would find at a Panda Express. I know it sounds like an unreasonably low-blow, but if you've eaten here, you'd probably agree with my assessment. I realize the Red 8 tries to dress up the dishes with ingredients or better cuts of meat, but the taste, presentation, and even the portions seemed to come straight from a carryout container from Panda Express. I have had my share of fancy Chinese restaurants/banquets, and the Red 8 isn't even in the same class as a P.F. Chang's, which is terribly disappointing considering my high opinion of the Wynn Resort.
Our total bill came out to about $300 with tip. It was the worst meal I've had on the Wynn Property, and probably one of the worst overall dining experiences I've had in Vegas. I'm not sure what's more annoying: paying premium prices for inferior food or the terrible service - that's why I cannot give this place a recommendation. The Wynn could "comp" my meal during my next visit, and I'd still pass because I'm not in Vegas to take a chance on my entertainment/food. I'll gamble at the tables, but not with my meal.
In my opinion, the Red 8 Restaurant seems more like a tourist trap for Asian guests at the Wynn than an actual restaurant - if you know what I mean. Try the Lemongrass Restaurant at Aria or go straight to Panda Express - but avoid the Red 8.
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