Fine dining continues to stake its claim across downtown with the addition of Joe Vicari's Andiamo Italian Steakhouse at The D Las Vegas. Don't let the Venice Beach crowd along Fremont Street throw you off, because once you walk through that brick tunnel, you will be transported to a new dimension of glamour and intimacy. Las Vegas is no stranger to fine cuts and Italian fare, but Andiamo [translated to “Let’s go!” in English] is among the first to bring such a high level of exotic European taste and remarkable ambiance off the Strip and to the downtown community.
Dinner here will mark an ultimate date night. Dim lighting and a dark color scheme is artfully broken up by golden domes that shine over some of the most impressive booths in town. Every seat here competes with the chef’s table at even some of the Strip's most intimate establishments: comfortable, chic, private and designed to bounce sound for intensifying the conversation. Hours pass in serenity with white tuxedo-clad servers suiting every need. A classic touch of old Vegas has been revived here, mixed in with new-age style.
The menu is elaborate, exotic and extensive. Your first course will set a marvelous culinary journey, highlighted by authentic Italian signatures made from imported ingredients. The chef’s meat and cheese selection delivers some of the finest delicacies in town, and far and away the best in Downtown. The calamari, perfectly cooked in a light, crispy breading, is made even better with a simple yet refined spicy marinara. The crab and lobster Louis, served in a martini glass, may not be big but delivers spectacular seafood with tangy cream sauce and a soothing avocado mousse. Follow up with a bowl of creamy lobster bisque, absolutely packed with its underwater namesake.
The Italian entrees here range from great to knock your socks off. Andiamo’s lobster risotto is a must, melding hearty rice, fresh vegetables and what seems like half an aquarium of shellfish with a harmonious sauce that speaks to the best of rich and flavorful. The Chilean sea bass was a special, but so divine that it should become a permanent addition. The crab-stuffed shrimp pleases as well, served with sweet corn succotash.
Surprisingly inconsistent with the restaurant’s quality, however, is the steak. Cuts are certified Prime American Angus, but Andiamo’s featured tomahawk ribeye leaves much to be desired. Dry and rather bland, it simply doesn't hold the character found in its revered counterparts. The filet mignon earned greater praise, but best to stick with the Italian side of the menu for a truly marvelous experience.
An extensive global wine list pairs beautifully with every item on the menu. A traditional dessert cart also offers several options to round out the meal. While several of these sweets are a bit uninspired, the creme brûlée and 'kit kat' deliver flashes of rich, creamy and creative.
Extravagant Italian, fine wine and an atmosphere for the record books make Joe Vicari's a positive new addition to Downtown's growing lineup of esteemed dining. The place certainly isn't a bargain [dinner here costs the same as what you'd find along the lines of Strip], but every item worth ordering is very fairly priced.
Andiamo Italian steakhouse is located at 301 Fremont Street Las Vegas, NV 89101, in the D Las Vegas, second floor immediately to the right after the escalator. Out-the-door price for appetizer, entrée, split dessert and 1-2 drinks is ~$85/person. Open nightly from 5-11 p.m. For reservations or more information call (702) 388-2220 or visit Andiamo Steakhouse online.
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