Rao's | Las Vegas Restaurant Week

Last weekend, a friend and I caught the tail end of this year's Las Vegas Restaurant Week, a fundraising event and a celebration of food and drink on the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding areas. Out of the more than 120 restaurants that offered prix-fixe menus at $20.10, $30.10 and $50.10, we chose to snag a table at Rao's Restaurant at Caesars Palace. Las Vegas Restaurant Week opened on August 29 and closed on September 11. Participating restaurants donated $4 to $6 to the Three Square Food Bank for each meal sold off their Restaurant Week menus.

Reminiscent of its original NYC storefront on an East Harlem street corner, Rao's at Caesers Palace has two ten-table rooms and additional seating in a banquet area as well as on a poolside outdoor patio with a bocce court. The seating area outside of the entrance lets you see all the action happening on the casino floor.

Fritto Misto (That's 'Eye-Talian'): Deep fried calamari, jumbo shrimp and zucchini with remoulade and marinara on the side

A nice selection of carbs in a basket

Our waiter serving the pasta out of a covered chafing dish. By the time it's in front of you, it's still piping hot.

Pasta is served al dente. I had the Pennette alla Vodka, one of Rao's most popular dishes, which features San Marzano tomatoes, diced Italian ham, vodka and a touch of cream. We also ordered a serving of their famously hearty meatballs, which come "in pairs, both the about the size of baseballs" said the waiter. (Giggity)

For dessert, NY Cheesecake with side of berries dusted with powdered sugar.

A sitdown interview that Caesars Palace did with Frankie Pellegrino Jr. of Rao's discussing their Restaurant Week events and activities.

FOOTNOTES on Rao's

Cheapest wine by the glass is a $15 Chianti

 

Rao's is also known for specialty olive oil, sauce, marinades and dressings, which are all available for purchase online here.

Rao's Website

Rao's Yelp