What a pleasant surprise. Wrapped in a non-descript brown stucco wrapper that makes it look like the ubiquitous pub/bar/restaurant that one sees all over Las Vegas, JR's place is proof that one can't judge a book by its cover. Even after I walked in and saw the joker poker screens and the TV's all over the place, I was unsure about it.
But when i saw Peroni on tap, I was encouraged. How many bars have Peroni on tap? James, the barman, was engaging and polite. When I saw the menu, I felt even better. I tried a simple rigatoni dish a la vodka and a dinner salad. The salad did not come out of a bag...the greens were fresh, varied and crisp. The dressing was just enough...not dripping all over the plate. I later found out that Susan, the owner/chef even makes them herself. They tasted like they were made that day.
The rigatoni was perfect...al dente and the sauce was just right. When I finished, I complimented James and he brought Susan over. She introduced herself and her husband, Jerry. They made me feel like I was in a neighborhood place in Brooklyn (Susan's home) and I was family. She 'made' me try one of her canolis. I know she filled it just before she served it because the shell was crisp and the sprinkles were all over the dish. The ricotta filling was as good as I've ever had.
I can't wait to go back and try the meatballs. fuggetaboutit....this place is a must.