Eccentric celeb-minded eatery at Hard Rock

Rock-star following for Vegas’ sexiest chef
The Place: Simon Kitchen and Bar

The Scene:
A youthful multi-sensory dining experience penned by restaurant architect Yabu Pushelberg features an airy Balinese-minded dining area with open kitchen and sunny patio. The décor mixes raw natural wood in a stylish yet understated manner. A mix of wood-slatted and bronzed panels of ancient screens (used for printing kimono designs) creates a dramatic backdrop as supermodel-slash-waitresses pose in striking Catherine Malandrino uniforms. Aside from the central dining room, three private dining areas and a patio play host to intimate parties and celebrity soirees by Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger and Goldie Hawn.

The Food:
There is a lot of salesmanship in the restaurant and meu of Simon Kitchen, beginning with the dashing young chef that seems as big a celebrity as the Hollywood elite he serves. Chef Kerry Simon's creates a sensual dining experience of curious flavor combinations that is both favorable and entertaining. Appetizers like colossal crab cakes with papaya Asian slaw and bluefin tuna tartare laced with lemongrass are culinary perfection. Main course items include a hearty dry-aged New York strip, roastes sea bass and traditional meatloaf served with endless sides of Tuscan fries, bamboo steamed vegetables or buttermilk onion rings.

Last Word:
Single guests or loud social types should opt for a spot at the bar or at the newly inaugurated communal table.

Other Useful Information
Cuisine: Steakhouse
Table to Get: Patio Four-
TopSpecial Features: Private Dining Room, Celebrity Chef, Singles Scene, Tasting MenuPayment Options: Visa, MasterCard, AmEx