restaurants

Wicked Spoon Buffet Review

4.5
Reviewed by TravelGuide.Vegas

An Elevated Buffet Experience in the Heart of the Strip

Wicked Spoon Buffet at The Cosmopolitan has redefined what a Las Vegas buffet can be. Unlike traditional steam table affairs, this culinary destination offers a sophisticated, thoughtfully curated experience that stands out in a city known for excess. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by a modern, industrial-chic space with high ceilings, dramatic lighting, and an open kitchen concept that creates an energetic yet refined atmosphere.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

The design aesthetic blends urban sophistication with playful elements - think exposed ductwork alongside custom artwork and comfortable booth seating. The noise level is surprisingly manageable for a buffet, allowing for actual conversation. The spaced-out stations prevent the typical buffet chaos, though during peak hours, lines can form at popular sections.

Culinary Excellence

Wicked Spoon's greatest strength lies in its innovative approach to buffet dining. Instead of massive trays of food, many items are served in individual portions - from miniature cast iron skillets of fried chicken to personal-sized bowls of bone marrow. This presentation not only maintains food quality but reduces waste.

The culinary stations are impressively diverse: Asian (with made-to-order ramen and Peking duck), Italian (wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta), Carving (prime rib, lamb chops), Seafood (oysters, crab legs, shrimp), and an exceptional Dessert section that could stand alone as a patisserie. The quality consistently surpasses typical buffet expectations, with attention to seasoning, texture, and temperature that's remarkable for volume service.

Service and Operations

Service is generally efficient, with attentive staff clearing plates promptly and beverage servers making regular rounds. During busy periods, some stations may have short waits, but the flow is well-managed. The premium beverage package (available as an add-on) offers surprisingly good wine and cocktail options beyond the standard buffet soda fountain.

Value Consideration

With brunch running $45-65 and dinner $65-85 per person (depending on day and season), Wicked Spoon sits at the higher end of Vegas buffets. However, the quality-to-price ratio justifies the expense for serious food enthusiasts. The individual portions, premium ingredients, and culinary creativity provide value that mass-production buffets cannot match.

Practical Information

Hours: Brunch 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM daily, Dinner 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM daily
Best Times to Visit: Weekday brunch (10 AM-12 PM) for shortest lines
Reservations: Not accepted - prepare for wait times during peak hours
Dress Code: Casual but stylish (typical Vegas resort wear)

Recommendations

Foodies: Don't miss the bone marrow, custom-made omelets, and dessert counter
Groups: The variety ensures everyone finds something they love
Special Occasions: Worth the splurge for birthdays or celebrations
Budget-Conscious: Consider brunch over dinner for better value

Final Verdict

Wicked Spoon successfully elevates the buffet concept with chef-driven creativity, quality ingredients, and stylish presentation. While not inexpensive, it delivers a dining experience that transcends typical all-you-can-eat expectations. The innovative individual portions, diverse stations, and upscale atmosphere make it worth the premium price for those seeking more than quantity.