Spiedini Ristorante   

221 N Rampart Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89145
702-869-8500
www.gustavinternational.com

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The Marriotts in Vegas are low-key affairs, designed mainly for business travelers who'd rather not deal with all the glitz and hoopla of the Strip resorts. But the success of Gustav Mauler's Spiedini has turned the JW Marriott Las Vegas into a bona fide hot spot. Locals battle tourists for a reservation in the 144-seat dining room, where spit-roasted Italian dishes are served in large portions at smaller-than-expected prices. That's a recipe for success no matter what the location. Though most opt for meat and poultry dishes from the open kitchen's "spiedo" (kitchen spit), Spiedini offers a full menu that includes flat-grilled pizzas, pasta and risotto dishes, grilled salmon, steaks and lobster. Specialties include spice-rubbed duck with orange caramel sauce, a half chicken with herbs and lemon zest and center-cut pork loin chops, all served with Tuscan-style braised sweet and sour cabbage, garlic mashed potatoes and one of the best baskets of warm focaccia bread in town. Wines are reasonably priced and served by the glass or by the bottle. The elegantly designed room is open and relaxed, accentuated by modern circular chandeliers, mosaic glass tile, Venetian glass and marble flooring. On nice days, guests can enjoy patio dining. -- David Hofstede