Describing Area15 is no easy task; you truly have to experience its mashup of attractions and sights firsthand. As new sections open up, the 200,000-square-foot structure continues to unfold into one of the most singular destinations in Las Vegas—a family-friendly hangout that’s also wholly appropriate for an adult night out.
No doubt Area15 will bring in food lovers of all stripes, now that the Beast—its main culinary attraction helmed by Todd English—is open. The James Beard Award winner is one of Las Vegas’ original celebrity chefs, having opened Olives at Bellagio in 1998. (The Beast only marks the start of his return, with Olives set for new life at Virgin Las Vegas later this year.)
The Beast represents English’s take on the food hall, which, like Area15, mashes up many things. Sit at the counters overlooking the pizza oven and you’ll see chefs making pies to suit every taste: the Bronx Bomber ($14), with cup-and-char pepperoni and fresh basil, will be a hit with the kids after they’ve tired out at the two-level Emporium arcade. (There’s a dedicated Little Beast menu as well.)
Adults can rejoice, too. The Frenchie ($19) is a dry-aged burger with raclette and truffle aioli, ready for a pairing from the wide selection of draft and bottled beer. The place wouldn’t be called the Beast without a meat-forward program, and the smokehouse selections—wagyu beef, spare ribs, short ribs, chicken and more—are served with your choice of sauces. If you’re feeling particularly hungry—or willing to share—there’s a tomahawk steak ($120) clocking in at 36 ounces.
There are noodles galore in Asian or Italian flavor profiles, from Singapore Street Noodles ($12) to a rigatoni Bolognese ($21). Vegetarians and vegans needn’t shy away either; there’s a hearty selection of salads and plant-based dishes that look as good as their carnivorous counterparts. And for those who enjoy cocktails with aggressive names, the Beast offers up Alien Blood, Hyde’s Revenge and the Banshee. Roar.
THE BEAST Area15, 3215 S. Rancho Drive,702-846-1900. Monday-Thursday, 5-9 p.m.; Friday, 5 p.m.-midnight; Saturday, noon-midnight, Sunday, noon-8 p.m.
