The medieval theme has proven extremely popular when it comes to pop culture, with the Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones franchises enjoying great success. People just can’t seem to get enough of swords, castles and hoisting a stein of mead. And up until now, if you wanted a taste of medieval-themed entertainment in Las Vegas, Tournament of Kings at Excalibur was your only option. But not anymore. Primal Steakhouse opened last year at Boulevard Mall, and it’s already a hit with locals. One visit and you’ll understand why.
Taking your seat at Primal Steakhouse is like entering a different world. The décor is straight out of a scene from Thrones—it’s dimly lit with faux chandeliers and wall sconces, dark-colored curtains, dark stone and wood walls with brick outlay and wooden tables and chairs. There are no TVs at all, purposefully done in order to both set the mood and encourage conversation. On one wall hangs a coat of arms containing an assortment of swords, which you are fully encouraged to unsheathe and pose with for photos, as well as helmets you can don. You halfway expect Brienne of Tarth to show up to pour your water!
Primal also has a large bar in the center and several separate rooms for special events. But as you’ll quickly discover, any meal at Primal is a special event.
The presentation here is just dazzling. Dry ice figures prominently in many dishes and drinks, making for some very memorable pictures and videos you can show your envious friends and family later. All the cocktails are themed, like the Viking Punch, which is served in a real, hollowed-out horn, with dry ice at the bottom so it smokes as you drink it. The medieval sangria looks as good as it tastes, served in an elaborate goblet. Atop this beauty, a sugar cube soaked in Everclear is burned for even more aroma.
Guatemalan-born chef Angel Lopez has created a varied menu full of flavors and surprises, all served up by some of the friendliest, most professional staff in the entire valley. Some restaurants promise that you’ll feel pampered throughout your experience, but Primal seriously delivers on this pledge.
Appetizers include bone marrow, beef carpaccio (served with the dry ice for a beautiful effect) and black ceviche, served in a shell made of ice that melts as you eat the contents within. Main courses include smoked halibut (arriving under a cover that is skillfully lifted by your server, revealing wafts of smoke) and a 32-ounce tomahawk that might be one of the best cuts of meat I’ve ever tasted. Make sure to grab some sides like lobster mac and cheese and risotto. Everything here is just bursting with flavor and personality.
The presentation extends to the dessert menu as well, particularly the crème brulee, which is flambeed tableside. If you really feel the need to get in touch with your inner John Snow, you really can’t do better than this.
3542 S. Maryland Parkway, 702.620.5103
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