Fine dining on the Strip poses a plethora of steakhouses, each with own its awards, acclaims, and accolades from voices around the world. But past the Craftsteaks and the Strip Houses, with all their press, lies an off-the-radar gem that for some reason has not gotten caught up in the bandwagon of aficionado chatter. BRAND is that guy sitting in the corner during a bar fight, quietly watching the chaos ensue until someone crosses his path and it’s time to take action. Nobody knew that guy was a decorated UFC fighter until they saw what he could deliver first-hand.
BRAND delivers. This sleeping giant dishes out tastes bold and beautiful, a thumping atmosphere and pleasantly dangerous drink menu to go with.
A classic menu with innovative spark delivers tastes both enticing and exciting. Start the meal out in style with the ‘hot rocks,’ strips of Ponzu-marinated beef that you flash-cook over an 800-degree lava rock right at the table. The Crab Louis isn’t ‘colossal’ like its name states, but presentation in an ice block adds major points to succulent crabmeat and a spectacular dipping sauce. Best to enjoy this onset with Brand’s astonishing ‘Heat of the Moment’ cocktail, where the flare begs a “haven’t had that before.”
The entrée cornerstone is the Tomahawk Rib Eye, 20 ounces of dry-aged beef that explodes with natural flavor, balsamic butter making it that much more rich. The Maine lobster holds an X-factor of Ritz Cracker/crab stuffing that adds just the right amount of saltiness, buttery-ness, and novelty[ness?]. Side dishes hold their own surprise elements as well, with some of the best creamed spinach, mac & cheese, and grilled asparagus you could ask for.
The one shortfall lies in desserts, where 7-Layer Chocolate Cake and banana s’mores are a lot better on paper than in practice. Stick with the Baked Alaska to satisfy your sweet tooth, or keep the party going with a Tangerine Dream or Strawberries ‘n’ Cream dessert cocktail.
The vibe remains hip and personable despite proximity to the casino floor. Background beats liven the mood, though BRAND’s lounge next door does pick up with loud music [but by 11 p.m. this has to be expected]. Service is friendly and fun; shout-outs to Roselle, a lovely server, and Anna, a sommelier who opens eyes to great new wines.
Wallets will take a slight beating, though just a scratch compared to the damage many Vegas steakhouses do. You may not hear much about BRAND’s brand on the Strip now, but this find is waiting to hit the streets. Discover what’s hot before the word gets out.
Location: 3770 S. Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV, 89109. Monte Carlo, south strip.
Reservations: Recommended, though walk-in is available
Price and Value: Starters from $10 with featured appetizers from $17. Entrees from $28 with steaks from $39. Sides at $9 and cocktails at $16. $10-25 cheaper than most comparable steaks across the Strip. Highlighted items are worth every penny.
Menu Highlights
Appetizers: Hot Rocks, Colossal Crab Louis
Entrees: Tomahawk Rib Eye, Maine Lobster, Filet Mignon
Sides: Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese, Creamed Spinach, Grilled Asparagus
Cocktails: Heat of the Moment, Impaired, Passion Fruit Mojito
Contact:
Call (702) 730-6700 for more information.
Check out Brand’s Web Page.
Comments