Fantastic describes the mysterious yet decadent restaurant known as Lavo.  Located in the Palazzo, Lavo brings an innovative club-like experience to the fine dining mystique.

Modeled after a Mediterranean bathhouse, the interior is eclectic and combines morrocan and contemporary elements.  Though the majority of the cuisine is Italian, there are hints of Asian and Indian accents.

The space is divided between a loungy bar area and extravagant main dining room.  Lampshade chandelieres decorated with topaz crystals hang from the ceiling while morracan teardrop lamps divide the lounge from the dining space.  Vases placed on multiple levels gently pour water into each other in the entry-way fountain.

Layers of textures blend together and combine ethnic and contemporary elements.  Exposed brick, painted white arched ceilings, metal tin walls and wooden doors mesh together to create a stimulating visual environment for patrons.

The mood is dark, sultry and sophisticated.  The contemporary global decor brings an ultra-chic vibe with a beautiful ornaments scattered throughout the space.  The restaurant is filled with hip fashionable professionals, club-goers, couples and groups.

When the restaurant first opened, it featured a variety of Mediterranean cuisine and eventually transitioned into a full Italian menu.  The two foot long brick oven pizza is a must-have.  Reasonably priced ($18 to $34), there are many varieties–margherita, carne (sopresatta, proscuitto) and lobster scampi style.  The length of the pizza when it is laid on the table is impressive visually and when you take a bite, an explosion of flavors please the mouth.  The crunch of the thin crust complements the delicately salted proscuitto.

Lavo is also known for its spaghetti with kobe meatballs.  Fresh ricotta and parmesan cheese are lightly sprinkled on a spaghetti that is rich and luscious.  The tender flavor of the kobe meatballs is definitely unique.  For appetizers, try the tuna tartare–diced yellow fin tuna, avocado and crispy garlic is coated with black olive dressing.  The fried fresh mozzarella is served on basil focaccia and arugula salad.

Other favorites include the aged 21 days steaks which are grilled and seasoned with sea salt and fresh cracked black pepper.  Patrons can choose from a center cut filet, new york strip or bone-in rip eye cut.    The best thing on the menu is definitely the crispy chicken “dominic,” topped with white balsamic and served with potatoes and red chili flake.  The tender texture and crispy skin of the chicken are soothed with a mildly salty yet sweet sauce.

To finish your meal, try the oreo zeppole–fried oreos are served with a malted vanilla milkshake.  Other items include the warm chocolate bread pudding and rolled chocolate 7 layer cake.  The Vidal wine is highly recommended for dessert for its smooth yet subtley sweet texture.  The flavor is simply amazing.

3327 Las Vegas Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89109-1402
(702) 791-1800

located in the Palazzo