Don's Prime Review
An Oasis of Classic Steakhouse Excellence on the Strip
Don's Prime stands as a testament to timeless Las Vegas elegance, offering a refined escape from the flashier dining options that dominate the Strip. Located in the heart of the action yet feeling worlds apart, this steakhouse combines old-school charm with modern culinary precision.
Ambiance & Amenities
Step into a dimly lit, wood-paneled sanctuary where the hum of conversation replaces casino noise. Plush leather booths, white tablecloths, and professional waitstaff in crisp uniforms evoke mid-century sophistication. The restaurant features a stunning glass-enclosed wine cellar displaying over 1,200 bottles and a polished mahogany bar perfect for pre-dinner cocktails. Private dining rooms are available for groups seeking exclusivity.
Culinary Excellence
The 28-day dry-aged prime rib is the crown jewel—a perfectly marbled, crusted masterpiece served with horseradish cream and natural jus. The Japanese A5 wagyu (market price) melts like butter with exquisite umami depth. Standout starters include jumbo lump crab cakes with minimal filler and a wedge salad with applewood-smoked bacon. Sides are family-style: don't miss the truffle mac and cheese or creamed spinach with fried egg.
Service & Experience
Service is polished but not stiff—knowledgeable servers guide diners through the menu without rushing. Sommeliers provide thoughtful pairing suggestions from their extensive list. The pacing between courses is impeccable, though the restaurant's popularity can lead to longer waits during peak hours (7-9 PM).
Value Considerations
With steaks ranging from $49-$125 and sides at $12-$18, Don's Prime sits in the upper mid-range for Vegas steakhouses. The quality justifies the price, though wine markups are typical for the Strip (2-3x retail). The $59 pre-theater prix fixe (5-6:30 PM) offers exceptional value.
Recommendations
- Couples: Request a booth near the wine cellar for romantic ambiance
- Business dinners: Utilize the private dining rooms with dedicated service
- Families: Early seating works best; children's menu available
- Solo diners: The bar area provides full menu service with engaging bartenders
Practical Information
Hours: Daily 5 PM-11 PM
Reservations: Highly recommended via OpenTable or phone
Dress code: Business casual (no athletic wear)
Parking: Validated valet available; self-parking in adjacent garage