Vegas Magazine - Niche Media - There is a place beyond the crowds, beyond the ropes, where dreams are realized and success is celebrated. You are invited.
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/124284
T he Guide THIS ISSUE THE VERY BEST OF devour: potatoes imbibe: cinco de mayo acquire: art galleries bright lights, big menu THE 24-HOUR CITIZENS KITCHEN & BAR BECKONS DINER FANS OF ALL KINDS WITH THE YUMMIEST COMFORT FOOD AROUND. BY MURAT OZTASKIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY SABIN ORR A lthough located right across the way from Mandalay Bay's new anchor club, Light, Citizens Kitchen & Bar isn't just for late-night clubgoers. Serving indulgent 24-hour comfort food, this Americana-soaked upscale diner draws crowds all day long, from its prime locale in the heart of the hotel's restaurant row. "What I love about cooking in Las Vegas is that every day is completely different, with a completely different clientele," says Brian Massie, The Light Group's corporate executive chef. "The goal with Citizens was to create a comfort food restaurant that would appeal to most people." At the crossroads between Light, Red Square (both, like Citizens, managed by The Light Group), and such five-star restaurants as Aureole and Stripsteak, Citizens entices more-casual diners with the basics. An old-fashioned dessert case and a takeout counter, plus two outgoing hostesses, invite people in (in case CITIZENS in bright lights isn't beacon enough). Massie's signature dishes run the gamut of comfort classics, although not quite how you remember them: zingy grilled mahi mahi fish tacos with guacamole, slaw, and a spicy, smoky chipotle aioli; a luscious 18-hour prime rib with a garlic and rosemary crust, served with a rich A.1. steak sauce butter; and a fried half chicken, glazed with a zesty jalapeño honey and served with a cooling coleslaw. The Fatty Melt, a double burger with caramelized onions, replaces the traditional bun with two decadent tomato grilled-cheese sandwiches, and the old-fashioned french fries and tater tots are quickly gaining a cult following. If that's not enough food, try the Muffaletta Challenge: nearly six pounds of bread, meat, cheese, vegetables, and condiments. "It's great to order for large groups or meetings," Massie says—although if someone eats it solo, it's free. Mandalay Bay, 702-632-9200; mandalaybay.com. V VEGASMAGAZINE.COM 165_V_BOB_G_Opener_MAY/JUNE_13.indd 165 165 4/24/13 2:51 PM