Fans of Top Chef are no doubt very familiar with head judge Tom Colicchio, a James Beard Award winner who’s not afraid to speak his mind and expect the very best from those who compete on the Bravo reality show. His standards are also apparent at his Las Vegas restaurants, including his eponymous Craftsteak, a Strip favorite that’s been going strong for nearly 20 years.

It’s nestled snugly along MGM Grand’s restaurant row, and its entrance beckons you to enter with its bar area and enormous spirit and wine collection. The dining room itself is spacious and cozy at the same time, with soft lighting contrasting with warm tones. It’s the perfect environment to kick back and enjoy some quality time with friends and family. And cocktails certainly help, especially the aged in-house Two Smoking Barrels, featuring High West Campfire whiskey, Luxardo, Antica Carpano and peach bitters, and In Love With the Coco, a blend of Ciroc Coconut, lime, basil, mint and soda.

As its name would suggest, meat is king here, from the hand-cut wagyu tartare and prosciutto San Daniele on the starters menu to the wide selection of steaks, everything from filet mignon and New York strip to A5 wagyu rib-eye from Japan. If you’re having trouble deciding, go with the Chef’s Beef Selection section, which offers a three-course menu for you and your party. Side dishes include white corn grits smothered in Gruyère, fingerling potatoes with garlic and thyme and Brussels sprouts cooked with bacon and bordelaise.

There are also plenty of seafood options on Colicchio’s menu. Braised lobster with tarragon is a star here, as is ahi tuna with spinach and red onion relish, and diver sea scallops with shaved fennel.

The dessert section is simple but wonderful, highlighted by cinnamon monkey bread covered with a pecan toffee. You can also enjoy crème brûlée or ice cream and sorbets.

MGM Grand, 702.891.7318

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