restaurants

The Front Yard Review

★★★★★★
4.5
Reviewed by TravelGuide.Vegas

Overview

The Front Yard, located inside the Ellis Island Casino & Brewery just off the Strip, offers a refreshing departure from typical Las Vegas dining. This indoor-outdoor space combines a garden-like atmosphere with creative American comfort food and craft beers brewed on-site. With its relaxed vibe and focus on quality ingredients, it has become a favorite among locals and tourists seeking value without sacrificing experience.

Ambiance & Amenities

The restaurant’s design is its standout feature—a spacious, greenhouse-inspired space with retractable glass walls, string lights, and lush greenery. Whether seated indoors or on the patio, guests enjoy a bright, airy environment that feels both rustic and modern. The layout includes communal tables, cozy booths, and bar seating, accommodating groups of all sizes. Amenities include free parking (a rarity near the Strip), Wi-Fi, and outdoor heaters for cooler evenings.

Menu & Quality

The menu focuses on elevated comfort food with a twist. Highlights include the Brewmaster’s Burger (made with house-ground beef and beer-braised onions) and the Short Rib Grilled Cheese, which is rich and satisfying. Vegetarian options like the Harvest Bowl are thoughtfully prepared, not an afterthought. Portions are generous, and ingredients taste fresh. The in-house brewed beers, such as the Island Blonde Ale and Super IPA, are crisp and well-balanced, pairing perfectly with the food.

Service

Service is generally friendly and efficient, though it can be inconsistent during peak hours. Staff are knowledgeable about the menu and beers, offering helpful recommendations. Wait times for food are reasonable, but on busy nights, delays may occur. The casual, unpretentious approach aligns with the restaurant’s vibe—prompt but not overly formal.

Value

For Las Vegas, The Front Yard offers exceptional value. Most entrees range from $15–$25, and the quality rivals pricier Strip restaurants. The house-brewed beers are affordable ($6–$8 per pint), and happy hour deals (3–6 PM daily) provide even better savings. Free parking adds to the overall value proposition.

Recommendations

  • Families: The relaxed atmosphere and kid-friendly menu (e.g., mac and cheese, sliders) make it a great choice.
  • Couples: The patio seating at dusk, with string lights and a craft beer in hand, is ideal for a casual date.
  • Business Travelers: Free Wi-Fi, ample seating, and a quiet environment during off-hours work well for informal meetings.
  • Beer Enthusiasts: Don’t miss the beer flight to sample the brewery’s offerings.

Practical Information

Hours: Open daily 11 AM–10 PM (until 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays).
Price Range: $$ (moderate; most entrees under $25).
Reservations: Not accepted; first-come, first-served.
Parking: Free self-parking in the Ellis Island lot.

Final Verdict

The Front Yard delivers a unique, enjoyable dining experience that balances quality, ambiance, and value. While service can occasionally lag, the creative food, excellent beer, and inviting setting make it a standout option for those looking to escape the Strip’s hustle without compromising on taste or atmosphere.

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