17° South Booze & Bites Review
A Tropical Escape in the Heart of Las Vegas
17° South Booze & Bites brings a refreshing slice of South Pacific paradise to the Las Vegas dining scene. Located just off the Strip, this vibrant establishment combines Polynesian-inspired cuisine with creative cocktails in a laid-back, tiki-themed atmosphere that feels worlds away from the typical Vegas glitz.
Ambiance and Amenities
The moment you step inside, you're transported to a tropical oasis. Bamboo accents, thatched roofing, and warm lighting create an intimate yet lively environment. The space features both indoor seating with comfortable booths and a spacious outdoor patio with fire pits, perfect for Vegas evenings. The bar area is a highlight, showcasing an impressive collection of rums and tropical ingredients. Live music on weekends adds to the festive atmosphere, though it can make conversation challenging at peak hours.
Culinary Experience
The menu celebrates Pacific Rim flavors with creative twists. Standout dishes include the Kalua Pork Sliders with pineapple chutney - tender, smoky, and perfectly balanced. The Loco Moco Bowl offers a delicious Hawaiian comfort food experience with a gourmet touch. Seafood lovers shouldn't miss the Poke Trio, featuring exceptionally fresh fish with traditional and innovative preparations.
Portion sizes are generous, making the restaurant good value for money. However, some dishes occasionally suffer from over-complication, with one too many ingredients competing for attention.
Liquid Excellence
The bar program is where 17° South truly shines. Their signature Zombie Punch is a masterful blend of multiple rums and tropical juices, served in a collectible tiki mug. The Painkiller stays true to traditional recipes while using premium ingredients. Non-alcoholic options like the Virgin Mai Tai are equally thoughtful and flavorful.
Service and Value
Service is generally attentive and knowledgeable about both food and drink offerings. Staff members clearly take pride in the establishment's concept. During busy periods, service can slow slightly, but the friendly attitude makes waits more tolerable. With most entrees ranging from $18-32 and cocktails around $14-18, 17° South offers solid value considering the quality of ingredients and execution.
Recommendations
- Couples: Perfect for date nights - request patio seating near the fire pits
- Groups: Excellent for sharing plates and trying multiple cocktails
- Solo Diners: Great bar seating for engaging with bartenders
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday evenings for a more relaxed experience