Returned to Austin's after more than a year away. Austin's was our 5 star Las Vegas Steakhouse for many years until a disappointing New Years Eve experience last year.
We have been disappointed by the poor service and so-so food in the past. On this recent trip, the food regained some leverage with us but the service was still sub par.
Food (4 stars) - Wife had the Ribeye [rare] which is what won us over years ago. Sad to say that although it was a great cut and was super juicy, it just lacked the off the chart flavor we remember. It's almost like they are not dry aging it as long as they've done in the past or have cut back on the "fat" when pan searing it.
I had the NY Strip [med rare] and was very pleased with the flavor, nice cut of meat and the seasoning was right on; nicely charred with the unique smokey flavor only possible with wood fired grilling.
Service (3 stars) - poor showing by the wait staff, albeit we were there on a Monday night but I would still be expected not to be sit down without a menu or any interaction for 5 minutes. Especially on a slow night. Waiter was obviously a newbie, didn't know anything about the food, didn't sell anything, and for the love of pete if you have a terrible menu there is no shame in writing down your orders, it's a lot less annoying than coming back to clarify the order.
3 stars means we'll be back as the steak is still very good and the biggest draw for the place.