Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar Review
Overview
Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar offers a dynamic fusion of upscale sports viewing and elevated American comfort food within The Venetian Resort. Unlike traditional sports bars, Flanker combines high-energy atmosphere with surprisingly sophisticated culinary offerings, making it a standout destination for both game-day enthusiasts and food-focused visitors.
Atmosphere & Ambiance
The space features a modern industrial design with exposed ceilings, sleek leather seating, and an impressive 360-degree circular bar as its centerpiece. Over 60 high-definition screens ensure optimal viewing from every seat, while strategic sound zoning allows for conversation even during peak game hours. The vibe is energetic yet polished—more refined than your typical sports bar but still casual enough for jeans and jerseys.
Culinary Experience
Executive Chef John Smith elevates classic sports bar fare with creative twists and premium ingredients. The signature Flanker Burger features wagyu beef, truffle aioli, and house-made pickles on a brioche bun—arguably one of the best burgers on the Strip. The Buffalo Cauliflower Bites offer a vegetarian alternative that rivals traditional wings in flavor and satisfaction. Portions are generous, and presentation exceeds expectations for this category.
Drink Program
The bar program shines with 24 rotating craft beers on tap, creative cocktails like the Touchdown Margarita with jalapeño-infused tequila, and an extensive whiskey selection. Happy hour (4-6 PM daily) offers exceptional value with $5 drafts and discounted appetizers.
Service & Staff
Servers demonstrate strong menu knowledge and genuine enthusiasm. During major sporting events, the staff maintains remarkable efficiency despite the crowds. Minor delays can occur during peak hours, but management visibly works the floor to ensure satisfaction.
Value Assessment
With entrees ranging from $18-32, Flanker sits at the higher end of sports bar pricing but justifies it with quality ingredients and execution. The $25 game-day lunch special (burger, beer, and fries) represents excellent value. Shared plates like the Smoked Brisket Nachos ($24) comfortably serve 2-3 people.
Practical Information
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 AM-11 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM-1 AM
Reservations: Recommended for groups during major events
Parking: Venetian self-parking or valet ($15-25)
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with adaptive restrooms
Ideal For
- Sports Fans: Ultimate viewing experience with stadium-quality audio
- Groups: Large tables and shareable plates perfect for gatherings
- Business Meetings: Upscale enough for casual business lunches
- Families: Kids' menu and early hours suitable for families
Room for Improvement
The noise level during playoff games may overwhelm those seeking conversation. Some specialty cocktails are overly sweet and could benefit from more sophisticated balancing. Booth seating tends to be more comfortable than bar stools for extended visits.
Final Verdict
Flanker successfully bridges the gap between sports bar energy and gastropub quality. While not the cheapest option on the Strip, it delivers superior food and atmosphere that justify the premium. Perfect for converting sports-bar skeptics while satisfying hardcore fans.