I knew Michael Mina by name only prior to my visit to his namesake restaurant at the Bellagio Hotel. Having spent numerous trips at the Bellagio, I'd become well acquainted with most of the restaurants on the property. But in an attempt to try something new, I made a reservation at Michael Mina's and I was very pleasantly surprised with the meal to come.
The room itself is modern and classic with a definite Pacific coast feel to it. While tables are close to one another, there was a sparse crowd and privacy was not an issue. Celebrity restaurants, especially in Vegas, often attract an eclectic group of diners. However, Michael Mina attracts a smartly dressed and more conservative type of patron.
I began my meal with the Cucumber French 75 which was as bright and refreshing as I would have expected. After reading the menu, I decided to make a night out of my reservation and went for the Tasting Menu. The courses that especially stood out include the Wagyu Shortrib Ravioli and the Lobster Pot Pie. I also chose to go with wine pairings and the Grgich Chardonnay paired beautifully with the lobster. (Grgich is a wonderful Napa valley vineyard I recently visited - check the coming article).
The highlight of the evening came with a trio of desserts that included a playful signature Rootbeer Float. You could taste the nostalgic freshness of the Rootbeer - a vivid memory I have from when my grandmother made it from scratch.
Lobster Pot Pie
The staff and host were all very welcoming and professional. Servers made thoughtful small talk and the sommelier was very well versed with his pours. My only negative about the entire evening was that there were 2 small pieces of shell found in my tasty Lobster Pot Pie. The chef actually came out and apologized for the mishap.
I'd suggest anyone with the time and appetite take on the Tasting Menu - and the wine pairings, though pricey, were generous and of the highest quality. A definite stop for a culinary treat and relaxed evening. This restaurant is truly worthy of its Michelin Star.
A little bio on Chef Michael Mina - he is infact the Executive Chef of this Las Vegas restaurant as well as the same named restaurant in San Francisco. He currently operates 18 restaurants across the USA and has published his own cookbook. Originally born in Egypt, he was raised in the US Pacific Northwest and has had the honour of cooking for three American Presidents.
Chef Michael Mina
Michael Mina - Las Vegas - Bellagio
3600 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
Tel: 702.693.7223
http://www.michaelmina.net/