Bugsy & Meyer's Steakhouse Review

A Taste of Old Vegas Glamour with Modern Flair

Nestled within the historic Flamingo Hotel, Bugsy & Meyer's Steakhouse pays homage to the legendary Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel and his partner Meyer Lansky, who helped shape Las Vegas into the entertainment capital it is today. This establishment masterfully blends 1940s mobster-era ambiance with contemporary culinary excellence, creating a dining experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Step through the doors and you're transported to a bygone era of sophistication and intrigue. The dim lighting, dark wood paneling, and plush leather banquettes evoke a classic supper club vibe, while black-and-white photos of old Vegas legends adorn the walls. The space is divided into intimate dining areas, creating a sense of privacy despite the restaurant's central Strip location. The low hum of jazz music and the clinking of cocktail glasses complete the immersive experience. While the ambiance is generally excellent, the acoustics can make conversations challenging during peak hours when the restaurant is at full capacity.

The Culinary Experience

The menu is a celebration of premium steaks and classic American fare with subtle creative twists. Start with the tableside Caesar salad, prepared with theatrical flair that honors Vegas showmanship. The prime steaks are the undeniable stars – dry-aged for 28 days and cooked to perfection over a hardwood grill. The 16-ounce ribeye boasts a magnificent crust while maintaining a juicy, buttery interior. Seafood lovers shouldn't miss the colossal shrimp cocktail or the expertly prepared Chilean sea bass.

Side dishes are family-style and equally impressive. The truffle mac and cheese is decadently creamy with just the right amount of truffle essence, while the roasted bone marrow with onion jam provides a rich, savory complement to any steak. Desserts maintain the high standard – the bananas foster, prepared tableside, is both a visual spectacle and a delicious finale.

Service & Hospitality

Service generally matches the upscale atmosphere, with knowledgeable staff who can expertly guide you through the menu and wine list. Servers demonstrate polished professionalism without being stuffy. On busy nights, however, the attention can become slightly rushed, and timing between courses may vary. The sommelier provides excellent pairings from their extensive wine collection, which features both Old World classics and surprising New World discoveries.

Value Proposition

This is undoubtedly a premium dining experience with prices to match. Expect to invest significantly for a complete meal with appetizers, mains, sides, and drinks. While the cost is substantial, the quality of ingredients, preparation, and overall experience generally justifies the expense for special occasions. The portion sizes are generous, particularly the steaks and family-style sides.

Practical Information

Bugsy & Meyer's is open nightly from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends. Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for weekend dining. The dress code is upscale casual – collared shirts and dress shoes for gentlemen are preferred. Valet parking is available at the Flamingo, with validation offered for dining guests.

Recommendations

For couples: Request one of the more intimate booths for a romantic evening. The tableside preparations add theatrical romance to the experience.
For business dinners: The professional atmosphere and discrete service make it ideal for important meetings. Consider the private dining options for larger groups.
For families: While children are welcome, the upscale atmosphere and prices make it better suited for older children and special family celebrations.
For solo diners: The bar area provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the experience while appreciating the historic ambiance.