Laguna Pool House & Kitchen Review

An Oasis of Mediterranean Flavors and Poolside Luxury

Nestled within the Mandalay Bay Resort, Laguna Pool House & Kitchen offers a refreshing escape from the typical Las Vegas dining scene. This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant combines sophisticated poolside ambiance with surprisingly refined cuisine, creating an experience that feels both luxurious and relaxed.

Ambiance and Atmosphere

The moment you step into Laguna, you're transported to a coastal Mediterranean retreat. The open-air design features whitewashed walls, rustic wood accents, and flowing white curtains that dance in the desert breeze. The centerpiece is the stunning infinity pool that seems to merge with the Las Vegas skyline. During the day, the space is bathed in natural light, while evenings bring soft lighting and a more intimate atmosphere. The comfortable lounge seating and daybeds encourage lingering, making this more than just a meal—it's an experience.

Culinary Excellence

Executive Chef Michael Goodman has crafted a menu that celebrates Mediterranean flavors with modern sophistication. The seafood tower is a standout, featuring impeccably fresh oysters, shrimp, and crab. The wood-fired pizzas boast perfectly charred crusts, with the Truffle Mushroom Pizza being particularly memorable. For main courses, the Herb-Roasted Chicken is remarkably moist and flavorful, while the Grilled Mediterranean Sea Bass melts in your mouth. Vegetarian options like the Heirloom Tomato Salad and Grilled Vegetable Platter are thoughtfully prepared and satisfying.

Service and Experience

Service generally matches the upscale ambiance, though consistency can vary. During peak hours, the staff sometimes struggles to keep up with demand, leading to occasional delays. However, when service is on point, it's exceptional—attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable about the menu, and genuinely friendly. The sommelier's wine pairings are particularly impressive, with an excellent selection of Mediterranean wines that complement the cuisine perfectly.

Value Proposition

While not inexpensive, Laguna offers good value considering the quality of ingredients, beautiful setting, and overall experience. Entrees range from $28-48, with appetizers around $16-24. The portion sizes are generous, and the quality justifies the prices. The happy hour (4-6 PM daily) offers exceptional value with discounted cocktails and appetizers.

Practical Information

Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, with extended hours on weekends. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekend brunch. Valet parking is available at Mandalay Bay, with validation offered for diners. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

Recommendations

For couples: Request a poolside table at sunset—the romantic atmosphere is unparalleled. The seafood tower and a bottle of rosé make for a perfect date night.
For groups: The shared plates and family-style options work beautifully for larger parties. The paella is particularly good for sharing.
For business meetings: The comfortable lounge seating and relatively quiet atmosphere during weekdays make it ideal for casual business lunches.
For solo diners: The bar area offers excellent people-watching opportunities and friendly bartenders.