It’s a celebration every day at Carlos’n Charlie’s
By Brock Radke
Photos by Beverly Poppe
World Famoso fajitas
Remember that time we went to Las Vegas and drank those really, really big margaritas? Remember? When you were dancing up on your chair? Or maybe you had such a great time, you don’t remember anything at all. It happens. Now that Carlos’n Charlie’s is open in Vegas, more of these fuzzy memories are being made every day.
Recognized worldwide for upbeat Mexican fare and crazy-fun service and setting, Carlos’n Charlie’s has arrived at Flamingo Las Vegas in a big way. Located on the east side of the iconic casino-resort, C’nC boasts more than 8,000 square feet of space encompassing a relaxing, pub-style dining room and an outdoor terrace overlooking the lush, tropical gardens of the Flamingo pool. The square terrace bar is the hot spot, where lively bartenders and servers seem to be having just as much fun as the patrons.
And what to drink at that bar? The options are endless. Pick a favorite flavor and the easygoing experts will concoct on the spot, or choose from a wide array of signature cocktails. On the hottest day, get frozen with the white rum-laced Guava Colada, or go back to basics with the Mother Margarita—Herradura, Jimador, Cointreau and lime and orange juices. Choose wisely, and savor every sip.
Veracruz fish
The appetizers on this menu are less of a meal opener and more of a reach-over-the-table communal experience, the perfect accompaniment for your second or third round of drinks. Of course there are chips and salsa, guacamole and spicy chicken wings, not to mention a “Mayan Pyramid” of nachos, but there are lighter, more refined choices like ceviche Acapulco, fresh fish and pico de gallo marinated in lime juice. The meaty carne asada quesadilla could fill you up before you get to your main dish.
For a soothing slurp, sample the well-spiced Azteca tortilla soup, roasted tomato broth with pasilla chiles, avocado and queso fresco. Other Mexican favorites include Charlie’s tacos, a signature dish that blends carne asada, chicken and chorizo sausage on soft corn tortillas, Baja-style tacos with fish or shrimp, and “World Famoso” fajitas, served sizzling with a choice of fillings and cool sides of sour cream and guacamole. Digging a little deeper into the surprisingly authentic offerings, there is chicken in traditional mole sauce or Veracruz fish, sautéed with tomatoes, capers, olives and white wine.
Having fun means getting what you want, and that’s the Carlos’n Charlie’s way. That’s why you’ll also find a variety of sandwiches, salads, burgers, steaks and even barbecue ribs. If you’re looking for utter satisfaction (and maybe a pre-emptive strike against an impending hangover), go for a burrito. The namesake version wraps cheese, vegetables, chicken, carne asada and more guac in a huge flour tortilla with rice and beans on the side. It’s guaranteed to quash your hunger.
Remember, the menu states that Carlos’n Charlie’s is a Mexican grill and fiesta—this is not just a restaurant; it’s a party that never stops. Act accordingly.
Flamingo
11 a.m.-2 a.m. daily. 702.733.3111
