Cili at Bali Hai Review

An Oasis of Refined Dining Amidst Vegas' Golf Scene

Nestled within the prestigious Bali Hai Golf Club just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, Cili offers a sophisticated escape from the typical casino dining experience. This upscale restaurant combines stunning golf course views with contemporary Asian-inspired cuisine, creating a dining environment that feels both luxurious and surprisingly serene for Las Vegas.

Ambiance and Setting

Cili's greatest asset is undoubtedly its location. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame panoramic views of the meticulously maintained Bali Hai golf course, with the iconic Las Vegas skyline providing a dramatic backdrop. The interior design blends modern elegance with subtle Asian influences - think dark wood accents, ambient lighting, and tasteful artwork. The spacious dining room maintains an intimate feel through clever layout design, while the outdoor patio offers one of the most picturesque dining settings in Southern Nevada.

Culinary Experience

Executive Chef's contemporary Asian fusion menu showcases technical precision and creative flavor combinations. Standout dishes include the miso-glazed black cod, which arrives perfectly flaky with a caramelized crust, and the Peking duck that requires 48-hour advance notice but proves worth the planning. The sushi and sashimi selection features exceptionally fresh fish, with the chef's omakase offering being particularly impressive for landlocked Vegas.

While the Asian influences dominate, the menu wisely incorporates some American staples, making it accessible for less adventurous diners. The prime steaks rival those found in Strip steakhouses, and the vegetarian options, particularly the tofu clay pot, demonstrate thoughtful menu development beyond typical token offerings.

Service and Hospitality

Service at Cili maintains a professional, attentive standard without feeling stuffy. The staff demonstrates strong menu knowledge and provides thoughtful wine pairing suggestions from their well-curated list. While service pacing can occasionally feel rushed during peak hours, the team generally excels at accommodating special requests and dietary restrictions.

Value Proposition

With entrees ranging from $32-$58, Cili positions itself in the upper-mid range of Vegas dining. While not inexpensive, the quality of ingredients, presentation, and portion sizes justify the pricing compared to similar Strip establishments. The restaurant's Sunday brunch buffet ($65 per person) offers particularly good value with its extensive seafood selection and made-to-order stations.

Practical Information

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 5:00 PM-10:00 PM, Sunday Brunch 10:00 AM-2:00 PM
Dress Code: Business casual (collared shirts required for men)
Parking: Complimentary valet and self-parking available
Special Features: Private dining rooms, outdoor patio, full bar, extensive wine list

Recommendations

For Business Dining: The private rooms and professional atmosphere make this ideal for client entertainment. The set menu options streamline the ordering process.
For Couples: Request patio seating at sunset for a remarkably romantic setting. The tasting menu with wine pairings creates a memorable experience.
For Families: While upscale, the restaurant accommodates well-behaved children. Sunday brunch is particularly family-friendly.
For Golf Enthusiasts: Perfect for post-round drinks or dinner. The golf course views are spectacular from every angle.

Final Verdict

Cili succeeds by offering something genuinely different in the Vegas dining landscape - a refined, view-focused experience away from the casino floor chaos. While the Asian fusion concept isn't revolutionary, the execution remains consistently excellent. The combination of stunning setting, quality cuisine, and professional service makes this worth the short trip from the Strip.