Botero raises the steaks on the Strip
Imagine a restaurant that fuses the sophistication of a classic steakhouse with the panache of a bold vibrant art gallery. Now imagine that restaurant nestled poolside, and you're imagining the Botero at the new Encore Wynn Las Vegas. The eatery showcases the sculptures and paintings of Colombian artist Fernando Botero, known for his humorous and larger-than-life works — hence the name.
The chic Botero — located next to the resort’s nightclub XS, which overlooks the pool —owes its existence to three Las Vegas luminaries: Executive chef Mark LoRusso, who received critical acclaim for his refined American restaurant Tableau at Wynn Las Vegas, has joined forces with two of Las Vegas' movers and shakers —Encore owner Steve Wynn and nightlife impresario Victor Drai.
Diners can dine indoors or outdoors, taking in Botero's whimsically pudgy subjects. Among them are some from his 2007 Circus series: Circus Woman with Tiger, Tiger and Trainer and Clown in His Trailer.
LoRusso has infused the menu with his own innovative and playful style. That factor is evident in his Childhood Redux appetizers that draw their inspiration from childhood, such as Kobe Sliders, Shrimp and Chips with mango-siracha sauce and Crispy Frog Legs with Meyer lemon butter and fennel salad.
As a steakhouse, Botero’s signature entrée is the “Steak Your Way,” naturally. It can be prepared traditionally, pepper steak style or as chimicurri. Available in filets (8–16 ounces), dry-aged New York strip (16 ounces), bone-in ribeye (22 or 40 ounces) and Japanese Kobe (6 ounces), steaks can be suppemented with add-ons such as half of a Maine lobster tail, Hudson Valley foie gras and Alaskan king crab.
Seafood lovers are in luck, too, with a Surf menu that includes such delights as whole roasted European loup de mer (sea bass), olive oil-poached halibut, Dover sole, a two-pound roasted lobster, pinwheel of salmon (two ways) and dayboat scallops. There's also a Turf menu offering brioche crusted rack of lamb, Kobe short ribs, and organic roasted chicken. Click here for the complete menu.
Desserts, compliments of pastry chef Patrick Florendo, are a whimsical spin on classics. They include PB and J doughnuts with concord grape jelly, Botero ice cream cupcakes and a vanilla ice cream palette with chocolate wafer, marshmallow and caramel nuts. Drinks put together by Wynn’s mixologist Patricia Richards complement the setting.
It all adds up to an evening that's the picture of satisfaction.
You can call (702) 248-DINE or (888) 352-DINE to make reservations.
Botero is available for special events — inquire online. A covered outdoor gazebo can accommodate up to 30 diners. Botero's patio can seat up to 40 and can host receptions of up to 60. Inside the rotunda, Botera accommodates from 10 to 35.
- by Bobbie Katz, Las Vegas Reporter for HelloMetro
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