Episode 081 - Something for Everyone

Is a secret to the steakhouse’s enduring appeal that it offers something for everyone? I think that must be at least part of the answer.In my first interview today, I re-connect with the impressive Las Vegas chef and entrepreneur Gary FX LaMorte. Gary has designed a lot of menus over a lot of years, and he talks about the importance to the menu of both familiarity (70% of menu items should sit comfortably with guests) and variety (everyone should be able to order something). Steakhouses have this math right.Gary first joined me on Episode 064 of Cheftimony where we talked about his early days in the Vegas culinary scene and his more recent work through Honest Hospitality, cooking for the Las Vegas Raiders and many others. Today, Gary and I dive into why the steakhouse works as well as it does and a few of chef’s steakhouse picks in Las Vegas.Up next, you’ll hear from Sonia and Dave of the excellent youtube channel Daverrason Travels and the podcast by Texans for everyone, It’s Vegas Y’all. Dave and Sonia explain the difference between the Texas steakhouse and the Vegas steakhouse, and we visit a few spots on the Strip and Downtown. While they have a soft spot for Andiamo Downtown, these two have also witnessed the presentation of the over-the-top $1,000 Australian wagyu tomahawk at Papi Steak in the Fountainbleau Las Vegas.Finally today, you’ll hear from the always-engaging Josh “Vegas” Duffy of the extremely popular Crap Vegas podcast. Josh first appeared on Cheftimony in November 2024 after we and many others enjoyed a great meal at Sinatra restaurant at the Wynn resort and casino. Today, Josh and I talk about the broad appeal of steakhouses, a difference in wine service between two top spots on the Strip and – for good measure - McDonald’s in Europe and dessert in Seattle!Right this way, the steakhouse is about to open once more.