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| - What's that expression that a lot of us foolhardy guys toss about as soon as we get to Vegas? "Go big, or go home"? It basically gives us a free pass to indulge in things that are extravagant, luxurious and potentially dangerous. And Mastro's fits well within this criteria: the place holds meals fit for royalty, the decor is immaculate, and it can be hazardous to your wallet's health if you are not prepared. But for those of us still reading, and certainly for those of us who have had the honor, Mastro's is a must-dine destination if you're in town.
Located pretty centrally in the City Center shopping district, it's almost impossible to miss Mastro's: the opulent, wood-like "fishbowl" perched precariously at an elevation is definitely eye-catching, and I'm pretty sure I inadvertently photobombed countless tourists as they stopped to take pictures of this structure, which is actually a dining room. Before you can get to your table, you stop by a tiny hostess desk flanked by two gals who wasted no time getting us seated once we checked in with our reservation. You'll more than likely walk past an offshoot to another, more private dining room, a pretty spectacular bar and then make your way into the main dining room that is expertly laid out: whoever did the layout here did so in such a way that seating is maximized but not once does it feel crowded. And this is even more impressive when you consider the polished staff is zipping about without hesitation or collision.
And let's talk about the staff, right quick: simply put, these are professionals who know their craft inside and out. Our waiter, Lionel, was the epitome of providing an exceptional customer service experience. We were -THAT- table that upfront told him we had a show to catch later that evening, and without missing a beat, he assured us he would keep us on schedule and would not let the meal be compromised. His service, along with the refills and bussing provided by other staff members, made for the best, most efficient dining experience I have seen yet in years of visiting Vegas. Add in a visit from a manager who just stopped by to chat and make sure everything was cool, and you have a place with a team that cannot be topped.
But all the friendliness and attention to detail means nothing if the food is bogus, and Mastro's has this base covered, too. Oh, do they ever. My folks started with a bowl of clam chowder and a caesar salad, while I went with the lobster bisque. All three were perfect pre-show snacks for the main courses, and just typing this sentence out is making me drool with fond remembrance. Ahem.
Mom went with a red snapper that was cooked to perfection and my surf-and-turf combo of a filet and lobster tail (which Lionel was gracious enough to de-shell table side like a boss) ranks among the best I've had at any place around the world. But the most surprising part was when Dad sheepishly admitted he had somehow never had sea bass before... and now that bar is set unfathomably high as his Chilean sea bass here was his favorite meal of this trip. A side of creamed corn and scalloped potatoes rounded out dinner, and wiped out my stomach. Somehow, my folks found room for Mastro's signature dessert, a butter cake that made me question how a chef can bake happiness, joy and euphoria into one pastry. It's that good (even though I had two bites and almost went into a coma with the straight gin I was drinking).
I cannot say enough positive things about Mastro's. From the staff to the overall "look" of the place, and most assuredly the culinary satisfaction each plate offers, it's a place that rewards all those who stop by for a drink or a bite to eat. Take those winnings from the casino and invest them here: I promise it's a much better deal than your favorite variation of Blackjack.
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