It might seem counterintuitive, but Oktoberfest actually begins in September—a reflection of generally unfortunate weather in Germany. Las Vegas isn’t wanting for outstanding October weather, and Emeril Lagasse knows this. He’s taken full advantage at Lagasse’s Stadium at the Palazzo, where the sports stadium and culinary theater has converted its outdoor, Strip-side patio into a Biergarten that opens daily at 4 p.m.
The Biergarten’s chef de cuisine, Scott Pajak, has crafted a menu worthy of Munich. Crisp, flaky potato pancakes are made in house and accompanied by a handcrafted, cinnamon applesauce worth eating all by itself. His peppery, bright-orange Obatzda Brie cheese spread provides a worthy foil to salty mini pretzel bites imported from Germany.
On the sausage front, bratwurst and knockwurst fired on an outdoor grill in your line of sight are hearty bites, and the knockwurst is particularly buttery. Don’t overlook the chunky, hand-mashed potatoes served on the side, and save room for the warm apple strudel strewn with raisins and walnuts.
It’s a beer garden, so be sure to order yourself a frozen beer, essentially a Bud Light slushie float on your choice of any of the draft options. Prost! Biergarten at Lagasse’s Stadium at Palazzo, 702-607-2665; daily 4-10 p.m.
