My first visit to a Nobu outpost was about 5 years ago at Nobu Next Door in New York City. At that point I was still evolving into the foodie that I am today, and for some reason, I absolutely loved the hot spot. The food was innovative; the atmosphere was exclusive; and snagging a table was a super-heroic feat. In the years that have passed since, Nobu has expanded, and I have also eaten at their Nobu 57 in Manhattan and the Vegas location. As food culture and my passion for it have evolved, so has my dislike of Nobu. This chain has lost its unique luster, and the quality of the dishes has become a mixed bag. While some hot and cold courses are better than others, almost anything beats their sushi, which tastes like something ordered from a supermarket's counter. \n\nMy sushi-fanatic friend and I recently booked a trip to Vegas, and her sister had insisted that she try Nobu. I knew that my friend was focused on it, so I went along with the recommendation, though I knew better. We wound up heading there on our first evening, which at least paved the way for better and better meals as the vacation progressed.\n\nOur reservation enabled us to get a table at the crowded spot, and we were immediately seated at a prime location in the center of the dining room. My friend ordered a glass of sangria, while I opted for a fruity martini, which was so horrifically sweet that I needed to exchange it for a basic glass of Sauvignon Blanc. The wine also turned out to be very acidic and not at all similar to the waiter's description.\n\nIn terms of the food, we started with two appetizers. A tiny mound of cool, fresh Salmon Tartare was immersed in a small bowl of fragrant miso oil and topped with a generous helping of salty Caviar. I am very picky about my tartare, judging it by the amount or lack of flavor it exudes. This particular version was surprisingly well-seasoned and delicious. We also sampled one of my favorites - the Rock Shrimp Tempura with Spicy Sauce. The succulent fried balls of rock shrimp melted in our mouths, and the spicy mayo sauce added a creamy kick. \n\nMy friend stayed firm on our ordering sushi, so we requested the fusion-style House Special Roll and the Spicy Scallop Roll. The spicy scallop one was pretty flavorful, but their house blend, which included several kinds of fish, had zero taste. We actually sent it back and did not even bother to order a replacement.\n\nUnfortunately, I think this restaurant has lost its pizazz, and my friend was not impressed either. I would really only recommend it for its non-sushi menu items, but even those are inconsistent.
places reviews