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| - Did the 6-course tasting menu ($110) plus wine pairings ($55). 3* might actually be generous, but I think it's fair because Aureole was basically half good, half not-so-good.
For example, some of the courses were excellent. The duck confit cavatelli was to die for, the foie gras and churros were perfectly cooked, and the king salmon and caviar (technically first course, but more like a big amuse) was a joy to eat. But many of the dishes were ridiculously salty. The lamb course was essentially ruined by this - I couldn't eat more than two bites, that's how salty it was. Even the duck confit cavatelli, which I loved, was tough to finish because it was so salty.
Service-wise, all staff we encountered - waiter, bussers, food runners, bartenders - were very friendly and welcoming. On the other hand, the meal was not paced well, there was a general lack of attention to detail, and we were repeatedly left waiting for utensils and wine to match up with our courses.
Ultimately, in a vacuum, I don't think most people would be outright disappointed by the overall experience here. But given the plethora of other options on the Strip in the $110 price range (or less, for that matter), I doubt I'd find myself at Aureole.
Side note: I think prior iterations of this restaurant were fancier, but this is now a completely casual restaurant - plenty of people in shorts, t-shirts, and sneakers, so feel free to dress comfy.
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