The Foundation Room is well known as a nightlife institution in Las Vegas, the hotel tower-topping spot that offers a chilled-out vibe and environment you can’t find at any other club. Often forgotten, however, is the adjoining restaurant, which offers a similarly relaxing scene, exhilarating views from a lovely outdoor space and refined and sumptuous cuisine.
Considering your location, you’ll be tempted to start your meal with a tower of chilled shellfish, and that’s a great idea. But don’t miss the signature appetizer of crispy duck confit with candied turnips, sweet cipollini onions and pomegranate molasses reduction. The bright flavors on the plate perfectly complement the tender, rich meat, resulting in a true jewel of a dish. The fennel-crusted, slow-roasted pork belly with buttermilk grits starter could also satisfy as an entrée.
Lighten up with some seafood as your main attraction, like sea bass with the innovative veggie combo of sea beans and broccoli rabe, or pan-seared diver scallops with butternut squash salad and lobster and pancetta relish. Just be sure to save room for dessert, where you’ll have to choose between the daily rotation of warm cookies and ice cream or indulgent Calvados apple bread pudding with bourbon vanilla gelato and pecan caramel. Why haven’t you been eating here all along? Foundation Room at Mandalay Bay, 702-632-7601; Sunday-Thursday 6-10 p.m., Friday & Saturday 6-11 p.m.
