M Resort keeps its Italian restaurant menu all in the family

Marinelli's in M Resort in Henderson serves authentic Italian dishes based on the recipes of the CEO's grandmother.

Marinelli actually is the Italian version of the Marnell family name, says Anthony Layton-Matthews, the hotel's vice president of food and beverage. Marnell is the "M" in M Resort, and the chief executive officer is Anthony Marnell III.

Diners can select from a menu that includes mostly northern Tuscan cuisine with a Roman influence, Layton-Matthews says. Servers deliver a complimentary platter of cured Italian meats, olives and breads for guests to snack on while they peruse the menu.

Everything is made fresh daily on premises, Layton-Matthews notes, including sauces, pastas and breads.

The restaurant is decorated with rich woods and stone. Wide windows provide a panoramic view of the Strip, especially at night, Layton-Matthews says.

Reservations are accepted but not required. Those who come in between 5 and 7 p.m. get $20 off their final bill, Layton-Matthews says.

The dining room seats 140 with patio dining seating 40. The restaurant is open daily from 5 to 11 p.m.

Specialties: Parpadelle with veal Bolognese, $24; sizzling brick chicken, $24; and veal Milanese, $36

Appetizers: Calamari, $12; Parma ham, $14; carpaccio, $13

Soups and salads: Caprese salad, $12; fire-roasted pepper salad with buffalo mozzarella, $12; arugula salad with pears and walnuts $11; Tuscan white bean soup with pancetta, $8

Entrees: Salmon cartoccio, $30; grilled swordfish, $32; lobster fra diavolo, $48; osso buco, $42

Desserts: Italian bread pudding, tiramisu and creme brulee tasting, each $7

Information: 797-1000

By SONYA PADGETT