High-end dining in Las Vegas is everywhere. It isn’t hard to find a place where the standards are as high as the bill (but let’s face it; you get what you pay for). And the newest contender in that arena is Toca Madera, a Mexican steakhouse found just outside Aria at The Shops at Crystals, one of the highest-end shopping centers in Southern Nevada. And Toca Madera is a glorious experience, one you’ll be telling your friends about for some time to come.
Fans of the exclusive franchise (the only other two restaurants are in Los Angeles and Scottsdale, Ariz.) will not be disappointed by the Las Vegas outpost. It’s impeccably detailed, with everything from a forest theme and fabric-lined banquettes to a DJ booth with a Day of the Dead-themed wall behind it. Because of its interior design, some areas allow you to “feel” the music more than others. It’s just a relaxing, luxurious, fun space, one that immediately puts you in the mood for a margarita.
As you would expect, Toca Madera specializes in tequila- and mezcal-based cocktails, and there are some spectacular options that will have you rethinking the spirit entirely. Wait until you sample the Winnie De Pooh, which uses Avion blanco tequila infused with chamomile, green Chartreuse, mint, ginger, lemon and wildflower honey. It’s tea-like character makes it sinfully easy to drink! If you’re looking for something a bit bolder, definitely order the Los Muertos, a drink that will wake up your tastebuds with El Tesoro reposado, blood orange, activated charcoal agave, lime and hibiscus.
By all means, enjoy the chips and salsa, but don’t forget to order guacamole as well, pepped up here by the addition of pomegranate seeds. The queso fundido is fun, featuring queso Chihuahua, poblano rojas and soyrizo, accompanied by thick, delicious flour tortillas. The raw bar has many creative takes, but our favorite is definitely the sashimi Mexicano, ahi tuna skilfully rolled up for sharing and served with cucumber, avocado, pomegranate, chili de arbol and leche de tigre.
Work your way to more ambitious fare like a steak program of Kobe and wagyu. The Australian wagyu top cap is so tender and flavorful—you can practically cut it with a fork. And the tomahawk, served flaming and brought to your table with bone marrow on the side, is one of the most visually arresting dishes on the entire Strip. Any of the myriad side dishes are recommended, from chili-roasted cauliflower to truffle Manchego fries.
Desserts are a must here, both attractive and decadent. Our personal favorites are the fluffy strawberry tres leches cake, served with tres leches anglaise and strawberries, and the brown butter cake with toasted feuilletine crumble, berry sauce and vanilla ice cream. Make sure to not waste any of the bourbon toffee sauce, which just makes anything you eat better.
The Shops at Crystals, 725.255.9030
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