May 2, 2017

Joel Robuchon – Las Vegas, NV

Joel Robuchon is regarded as one of the best chefs in the world. He has been the ‘number one ranked chef (total Michelin star count) in the world for years. So when I had the opportunity to dine at his Las Vegas restaurants I leaped at the chance. Even several months after this dining experience I still fantasized about the bread cart and several of his signature dishes. I can imagine a meal made entirely from the bread cart itself, but that leaves out so much!

The decor, service and food were all at the level of what I would expect of a Michelin three-star establishment. From the moment we stepped into host area from the loud hustle and bustle of the MGM Grand casino floor, the experience was like no other.

Having experienced the Degustation Menu, I would have to write a book to describe what I loved about every item. Here are the items that I enjoyed the most – albeit not taking anything away from the items not mentioned.

Bread – I can’t say enough about the bread cart. I sampled nearly every type of bread on the cart, making it difficult, but not impossible, to enjoy the main course of beef chop.

Caviar atop crab – I love caviar. I love crab. This combination dressed with a seafood gelee was nothing short of amazing. The detail in the preparation of the gelee and caviar looked like an artist prepared it rather than a chef.
Green Pea and almond veloute – This dish gave me a newfound love of green peas – in a veloute that came together perfectly.

Foie Gras – This is what foie gras is all about. Perfectly prepared, melt in your mouth, rich, but balanced with the cherries.

Beef Chop – Having lived in Texas for 12 years, it’s all about steak. I’ve eaten dry-aged prime, Kobe, Akuashi, and A5 steaks, but this seemingly nondescript ‘beef chop’ was the best cuts of beef I’ve eaten in my life.

The only regret I have is that Robuchon had such a great cocktail menu that we decided not to experience the wine pairings with the tasting menu on our first visit. During our second dining experience at Joel Robuchon, we did take the sommelier’s advice of treating ourselves to the full wine pairing of the degustation menu.

During our third visit, we were treated to the coveted corner booth that we always admired during our past visits. After this experience, I can ultimately say that Joel Robuchon is the pinnacle of dining experiences in my life. It has set the standard for the highest quality dining that every other restaurant will have to compare itself to.