Few restaurants on the Las Vegas Strip have a better location than Tom Colicchio’s Heritage Steak. Nestled in the heart of all the action at The Mirage, it’s also right next to the property’s gigantic atrium, and you’re likely to spend a few minutes just gawking at it before you even make your way into the restaurant. But you quickly realize that Colicchio’s destination is a wonderful complement to the lush foliage and water features, with its dark, burnished wood décor and warm, welcoming atmosphere. It almost feels like an extension of the atrium.

Fans of Colicchio are no doubt aware of his high standards on such shows as Top Chef and Best New Restaurant. You would no doubt be expecting nothing but the best at one of his restaurants, and as you work your way from appetizers to the main courses to dessert, you are never disappointed. Colicchio’s restaurant, like the man himself, is unforgettable.

There are several must-try items on the appetizer menu, especially the wonderfully presented charred octopus, served in a leek vinaigrette with roasted red peppers and romesco sauce. So tender and so full of flavor! If you’ve avoided octopus up to now because of its texture, this will make you a lifetime fan. You’ll see a lot dishes you recognize from other menus, but Colicchio has packed a flavorful twist into each one, from the French onion soup smothered with caramelized Gruyère to the jumbo lump crab cake served with watercress, apple and remoulade. Even the salads will make your tastebuds pop with surprise, especially the romaine Caesar with a soft-cooked farm egg and pickled white anchovy. Yum!

Main courses will be familiar to any fan of a classic steakhouse, and all are worthy of consideration. You’ll be tempted (and rightly so!) to order the 16-ounce prime rib, served with au jus and Yorkshire pudding, as it’s easily one of the best things on the entire menu, but there’s something for every palate here: Seafood lovers can enjoy sea scallops, served with roasted root vegetables and smoked bacon jus, and king salmon, accompanied by braised red cabbage and fennel. The 12-ounce Colorado lamb chops are amazing here, as are all the steak selections, from a 10-ounce American wagyu skirt steak, flavored with a Tabasco rub, to the 48-ounce Mishima ultra tomahawk, meant for multiple diners. Make sure to pair your meal with one of Colicchio’s great sides, from crispy Brussels sprouts and spicy cauliflower to creamed spinach and decadent truffle risotto.

Surely you’ve saved room for dessert? Well, even if you didn’t, you’ll still want to take something to go, including the chocolate cake topped with raspberry compote, the vanilla bean cheesecake with strawberry gelée and whipped cream, and the key lime pie with graham-cracker crust and whipped cream.

The Mirage, 866.339.4566

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