According to Chris Zadie, the suave general manager at the Mirage’s hidden-gem Italian restaurant Portofino, this classic, indulgent dish has been available at the iconic Strip resort since Steve Wynn opened it and changed Las Vegas forever in 1989.
The Lobster Milanese was a menu favorite for years at Kokomo’s, the surf-and-turf spot that used to welcome Mirage guests right off the lobby. It eventually made its way to the Italian restaurant, formerly known as Onda. And today, Zadie and rising-star chef Michael LaPlaca keep the legend alive off-menu, a special treat only for in-the-know diners. Count yourself among them.
When the order comes in, LaPlaca pounds out a full-pound New England lobster tail, lightly poaches it in butter and fries it crispy in delicate, savory breadcrumbs. It’s finished with garlic spinach and a brisk citrus-butter sauce, combining overwhelming richness, oceanic freshness and crunchy and tender textures. One bite and you’ll understand why so many longtime Vegas visitors keep coming back and asking for it again and again. Portofino at Mirage, 702-791-7131; Monday & Thursday-Sunday, 5-10 p.m.
