Travel FanboyWhen I saw the construction of the art installation across from StripSteak last July, I was curious about the Libertine Social experience. Further motivated by a 2-for-1 entree thanks to MyVegas, my wife and I made the trip over to Mandalay Bay during our April trip. We’re glad we did.
Libertine Social bills itself as a “next-generation gastropub”. I’m not sure I know what that means, but it was great. What I do know is that any accolades chef Shawn McClain would like to bestow on his new restaurant would not get any argument from me.
Quirky decor fills the walls of the multiple dining areas, which includes both indoor and patio seating. LS is ideal for solo travelers. Not only is the bar quite spacious, but the small plates menu allows for plenty of variety.
My wife and I sampled as much as we could. She’s a wine drinker, but I opted for a cocktail off the menu designed by mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim. Forgive me for forgetting the name, but the bourbon-based concoction was very tasty. As were all our dishes throughout the meal.
We started with the shaved Brussels sprouts. I’m happy I’m now an adult and don’t automatically run away from Brussels sprouts. Otherwise, I would have missed this salad with bacon, pear, almonds and cider vinaigrette. Before moving on to our entrees, we allowed the spare ribs to steal the show. The chili glaze with cilantro and lime made it one of the best dishes I’ve had in Vegas.
They call them small plates, but they’re much larger than expected. Two small plates and a shared entree would likely be enough for a couple. Being a bit ravenous and looking to take advantage of our 2-for-1 offer, we each got our own. The waiter did tell us that the offer is good not only for entrees but any dishes you’d like to combine. If you wanted to only get two small plates, they’ll comp the least expensive of the two.
For our main course, we opted for the scallops and wagyu skirt steak. Each came in around the $40 mark. We both agreed that the skirt steak was the better of the two and if you’re looking for a grilled dish to share, make it this one. It has inspired me to try to create my own salsa verde to pair with my home grilled steak. Surprisingly, mine hasn’t quite reached the delectable standard set by LS.
After four dishes and two drinks apiece, we couldn’t bring ourselves to order dessert. Though, when I go back, I’m definitely going to give their Margarita Donuts (lime curd filling and tequila glaze) a try. And I will be back. I said on the podcast that this was one of the, if not the best meal I’ve ever had in Vegas. With its creative menu and robust cocktail selection, it’s hard not to find something to enjoy. They have amazing tequila reviews, so whoever reads this make sure to try it out.
I’d suggest making reservations for weekend visits, but, for now, you should have no problem walking up and getting a spot when it’s open mid week. That is until more folks find about it. I probably shouldn’t have said anything.
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