I must admit, after reading mixed reviews on Il Fornaio (Las Vegas) I was hesitant to eat there. However....sometimes you have to read between the lines with reviewers. If they happen to experience a waiter who spilled their water, then the entire meal was a disaster. (but was their meal good?) Other customers expect top-notch prime rib at a standard Italian restaurant. I figure if they feature pastas and pizza -- then order accordingly. Go to a steakhouse for a good steak or prime rib. Remember, this is a restaurant in a casino...trying to please a variety of palates at a decent price. If you want a particularly bland or spicy dish, ask the waiter for recommendations. My husband ordered a pizza and I ordered a calzone. The pizza was very flavorful. My calzone was good and generous in size -- not unforgettable in taste, but good. We took our chances choosing to sit in the patio, where smoking was allowed. The ambiance of this area was very nice -- and it was 'open air' (to the rest of the casino) so we didn't notice the smoke. The little river running by the patio tables was charming. Fortunately for us, the one person near us who WAS smoking didn't bother our meal. IL FORNAIO is a casual restaurant in a casual casino, serving a variety of standard Italian entrees. If you are looking for truly authentic, award-winning fare, you need to go to a more upscale restaurant. It depends on what your expectations are before you even sit down. Our overall experience at this restaurant was quite pleasant and our waiter was kind and efficient.
Pros: Nice, casual ambiance.
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