Lagasse’s Stadium combines fine food with relaxed setting
Of the many things associated with Emeril Lagasse, the sound of 1,200 sports fans simultaneously screaming "Yeah!" or "No!" is a new one.
Lagasse's Stadium, which opened in September at the Palazzo, 3325 Las Vegas Blvd. South, juxtaposes a live-betting sports book (via hand-held devices) against an Emerilized version of ESPN Zone. It is the fourth feather in the celebrity chef's Vegas cap (the second at the Palazzo).
"We're going for the Emeril experience in more of a laid-back setting," says general manager Marc Zakin, who describes the atmosphere as "very loud." (During college games, fans even chant their alma mater's songs.)
An unusual social phenomenon often occurs when the check comes: The big winner pays. This results from a combination of altruism, guilt and boasting.
"It makes them feel like they're smarter at picking the games than their buddies," Zakin says.
Pointing out that each table has its own flat-screen TV, Zakin likens dining here to "sitting at your own kitchen table on a Monday night."
Please note, however, that at the restaurant pants are required.
Hours are 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 7:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturdays and 8:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sundays.
Reservations are recommended for game seating, sky or luxury boxes.
Signature dish: Emeril's New Orleans barbecue shrimp, $15
Starters: Buffalo wings, $12; chili cheese fries, $10; Italian sausage arancini, $10
Soups and salads: Virgin Bloody Mary tomato soup, $7; stadium salad, $8; grilled chicken Caesar salad, $14
Entrees: Creole Reuben sandwich, $14; slow-roasted half-chicken, $20; barbecue chicken pizza, $15
Desserts: Funnel cake, $7; shake 'n cookies, $7; fried peach pie Melba, $7
Information: 607-2665.
By COREY LEVITAN
