Kevin F.
Yelp
Had the opportunity for an exclusive chef's tasting at Basilico. Went in with an open mind, and left with an full belly and eyes wide open. What we found is arguably the best new restaurant in Las Vegas, certainly the best new Italian fare in town.
We started the tasting with Neapolitan street food, which was excellent, with the frittata standing out as my favorite. Then, Chef took us on a journey through Cuttlefish, which featured three different types of prepared cuttlefish, all of which tasted fantastic. What followed was some dashi-braised octopus, some delicious smoked cigars served in an ashtray that featured sesame truffle ash and came hand-delivered in a cigar box.
Then we moved into the pasta portion of the Tasting, which featured four very dynamically different types of pasta, served with varying proteins. My favorite was the mezze maniche, which featured artichokes, cinnamon and caviar (which added a perfect salt profile).
We then shifted to the meat portion with incredible pairings of Oxfail and Scallops with a bone marrow bordelaise and then the secreto, a rare cut of pork that really popped with the potato sfogliata, mushrooms and mustard sauce.
Finally, we hit the dessert portion that started with a nice transitional dish, artichoke with confit, milk and chamomile gelato. Then, Chef Di Caudo prepared our desserts table side, which included frangipane with figs, Earl Grey ganache and an incredible parmigiano gelato on lemon ginger pound cake, paired with spiced poached pear and vin brule. Highlight of my meal. Insane good.
Basilico very well may be THE best Italian restaurant in Las Vegas right now. Chef Di Caudo he's operating on a whole other level than anybody I have experienced here in Las Vegas over the last calendar year (and I have a HUGE love for Chef Nicole Brisson's work). While it is a difficult location to find, I am sure it will soon become one of the prime spots for Italian fare here in town, especially in the south west part of town. The ambience had a great old school Vegas vibe, even live lounge singers and an upcoming industry night also is on the docket. Highly recommend the Basilico experience. You won't be disappointed.