Q: positive

A: During one of my last work trips in Las Vegas, I found myself stationed here at the Golden Nugget and feening for some food after an incredibly intense happy hour. I learned of the Grotto by accident really - I was busy sipping glasses of wine and attempting to order bar food, only to learn that bar food was a delicious array of Italian fare. Perhaps it was the alcohol doing the talking for me, because everything I had was inhaled in minutes. The Montel Wrap, a parmesan crusted Chilean sea bass married with roma tomatoes and lettuce was better drunk food than the burger and fries I was initially fantasizing about. Another winner was the lasagna and the margherita pizza was deceivingly tasty. I managed to go back to my hotel room in a pseudo drunken food coma, a condition best experienced in Vegas. I decided to come back during another night for dinner, this time sober and just as hungry. Having witnessed the dining room for the first time, I realized it was easy to miss this place. The Grotto doesn't stand out and the tacky decor wasn't going to win any awards either. When examining a menu for a second time, it was clear Grotto's was a Italiana Americana restaurant, more than it was anything more authentic. Service was good, almost too good for a downtown casino establishment. They were courteous, professional, and prompt with everything. I had a stellar recommendation in the very tasty ($9) lobster bisque, not too fishy and just a tad of creme. Another solid dish was the linguine pescatore, but felt overpriced at $27 for a medium portion. I also was able to try their herb crusted pork loin ($25), juicy and hearty, with a nice seared crust, had a nice flavor with it. The yukon mashed potatoes were a nice touch but tasted like they were whipped with butter and sour cream. Finally our table of hungry hippos decided it would be a good idea to order the sausage and peppers pizza. The crust was a little charred, too much to a point where it was dry and mediocre. I would give this another shot, especially since I've heard more former colleagues rave about this pizza than any other entree on their menu. The Golden Nugget has a mini gem here with Grotto. For downtown standards, this is a decent and semi-reasonably priced Italian option in an area where good food is hard to find.

Q: negative

A: Food here is not bad... gambling OK. Roaches in our room = BAD. Also the neighbors were hump o holics and LOUD as hell.

Q: positive

A: I love coming here for breakfast/brunch when I'm at Vegas when I stay at the Venetian. It's just a very special feeling when dining here...a Tavern on the Green/ Russian tea room atmosphere. Also love that there's no reservation needed for breakfast, and it's only an elevator hop away from your room. My fave is the chicken and waffle! Can't wait to have it again!

Q: positive

A:
This place was soo good!! I got the kale cornucopia, it was so flavorful and tasty. One of the yummiest salads I've had(in general). Also had a smoothie, can't remember the name but it had avocado, pineapple and coconut, was delicious! I felt so healthy after eating here, highly recommended!!!