Lemongrass Review
A Culinary Oasis in the Desert: Lemongrass Restaurant
Nestled just off the Las Vegas Strip in the Aria Resort & Casino, Lemongrass offers a sophisticated yet approachable Thai dining experience that stands out in a city known for culinary excess. This restaurant masterfully balances traditional Thai flavors with modern presentation, creating a memorable dining experience that transports guests straight to the streets of Bangkok while maintaining the polish expected of a Vegas establishment.
Atmosphere & Ambiance
The moment you step into Lemongrass, you're greeted by an elegant space that blends contemporary design with traditional Thai elements. Soothing earth tones, teak wood accents, and subtle lighting create an intimate atmosphere. The dining room features comfortable banquette seating and tasteful floral arrangements, while the open kitchen allows glimpses of chefs expertly wielding woks over blazing fires. The gentle hum of conversation and occasional clatter from the kitchen create an energizing yet not overwhelming ambiance.
Culinary Excellence
Lemongrass's menu showcases authentic Thai cuisine with particular attention to balance and freshness. Standout dishes include their Tom Yum Goong - a perfectly balanced hot and sour shrimp soup with just the right amount of lemongrass and chili heat. Their Pad Thai is among the best in Vegas, featuring perfectly cooked rice noodles with a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and savory notes. The Massaman Curry deserves special mention for its complex spice profile and tender beef.
What sets Lemongrass apart is their commitment to authenticity while accommodating modern palates. They offer customizable spice levels (from mild to "Thai hot") without compromising the integrity of dishes. The kitchen uses high-quality ingredients, with fresh herbs and vegetables that elevate each dish beyond typical strip mall Thai fare.
Service & Hospitality
The service team demonstrates genuine knowledge of the menu and provides thoughtful recommendations. Servers are attentive without being intrusive, and water glasses are consistently refilled. During peak hours, there can be slight delays in food delivery, but the staff handles wait times professionally. The sommelier offers excellent pairings from their curated selection of Asian-friendly wines and craft cocktails featuring Thai ingredients.
Value & Practicalities
With entrees ranging from $18-32, Lemongrass offers solid value considering the quality of ingredients and execution. Portions are generous enough for sharing, making family-style dining an excellent option. The restaurant operates from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM Sunday through Thursday, extending to 11:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
Who Should Visit
Couples will appreciate the romantic ambiance and sophisticated cocktails. Business travelers will find the professional service and convenient location ideal for client dinners. Families with older children will enjoy the diverse menu options, though the upscale atmosphere might not suit very young children. Food enthusiasts seeking authentic Thai flavors will find this among Vegas's best offerings.
Final Verdict
Lemongrass delivers an exceptional Thai dining experience that justifies its place among Las Vegas's competitive restaurant scene. While not perfect (the noise level can rise during peak hours, and some might find prices slightly elevated), the overall quality of food, service, and atmosphere makes it a standout choice. It's particularly remarkable for maintaining authenticity while operating within a major casino resort.