The Reef

Continental seafood best describes the 'jewels of the sea' served at The Reef, Las Vegas Hilton's gourmet seafood restaurant, among the top choices in Las Vegas.

A memorable dining experience begins upon entering this elegantly appointment 129 seater divided into 3 distinct dining areas. Decorated with few brass nautical wall accents, and carpeting depicting ancient sailing vessels, the ambiance is upscale which compliments fine dining.

The service is exactly what is expected - top notch - gracious, polite, efficient, never overbearing: the wait staff is always with in eye contact and when not summoned approach the table with perfect timing.

Beautiful and colorful Villeroy and Boch bone china grace the tables coupled with expertly prepared and artistically presented cuisine tantalize the palate at first site.  Silverware is changed with each course not only providing sparkling utensils but also alerts you for the next course to follow.

A common denominator applies to each item served: ingredients are well balanced, not overpowering, allowing the palate to savor and distinguish the subtle flavors. Making selections from an array of outstanding appetizers and entrees is a matter of personal choice.

Recommendations: For appetizer the Soft Shell Crab topped with mushroom and light zesty lemon butter cream sauce ($11.95) is high on my list , as is the Spicy Crab Cake topped with a delicately flavored mustard sauce ($12.75), both outstanding choices to prepare the palate ($10.95) and the Seafood Stuffed Mushroom ($9.50) are excellent.

For a touch of France try the exceptional Bouillabaisse prepared in natural shellfish stock, saffron flavored with ample portions of Sea Bass, Mahi Mahi, Mussels, Crab, and Scallops ($22.50) or if Mediterranean is your choice try the Cioppino ($22.50), equally as flavorful.

Several visits may be required to savor the treasures of this fine continental seafood restaurant remote from the seashore in this desert oasis.  My favorite entree includes the Stuffed Australian Lobster Tail, plump sweet diced lobster meat, shrimp, scallops, mushrooms and other delicate vegetables prepared in a cream sauce (with a long finish) served in the shell ($54.00) with Reef Rice, a full flavored combination of white and wild rice rounded with cream and parmesan cheese blended with toasted bits of vermicelli.  Gourmets, Epicureans, and all seafood aficionados should not miss this treasure of entrees.  An outstanding and exceptional Calamari Steak lightly breaded with a fine Japanese bread crumb, sauteed in a light lemon butter Macadamia nut sauce and topped with toasted Macadamia nuts ($16.95) is an equally great selection for the lighter appetite.

The wine list is extensive and represents virtually every label, appellation, and origin with prices beginning at $25.00 up to the hundreds and thousands for those rare vintages. A central indoor 'courtyard styled' cocktail lounge services four of the 'Hilton's' fine restaurants and is perfect for that pre-dinner or after dinner cocktail and relaxation.

The menu is priced to meet the budget of all patrons:  Appetizers $9.50 - $12.75:  Seafood Cocktails $13.50 - $21.00; Fresh Catch $16.95 - $22.50:  House specialties $19.95 - $56.00.

For an exceptional gourmet seafood dining experience, The Reef is unsurpassed. Located in the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel/Casino, 3000 Paradise Road (conveniently located next to the Las Vegas Convention Center) quiet, away from the bustling "Strip." Open 7 days 5:30 - 10:30pm; for reservations please call (702) 732-5111.