Cleaver Steakhouse – Lots of +s with some -s

While searching for steakhouse options in Vegas, one thing you will quickly realize is just how many options there are. I used to live in a similar sized city (population wise), and there were probably less than 10 options. In Vegas, searching for 9PM+ RSVPs, I got over 30 probably. Many of them would be stars in their own if they were in cities with less options, but in a highly competitive market like this, a place really needs to be on top of their game. I can only think of 2 or 3 that I would revisit.

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On this occasion, I wanted to try a place I had never been before so I decided on Cleaver. Aside from the high ratings, I liked that they were near the Strip, but not actually on it. This gives one the option to head to the Strip after to continue the night, but not pay Strip prices for food.

Upon arrival, I immediately took a liking to the place. The interior has a speakeasy old school steakhouse vibe to it. Fairly dark interior. The crowd got younger as the night went on, so if you are looking for some people watching and a more vibrant setting, this would be a good choice. Another plus is that they are open until midnight AND happy hour runs all night. We got some good deals with this.

We started with the Caesar salad and spicy mussels. I consider myself a Caesar salad connoisseur of this type of salad. In my past food company, I had the original recipe on the menu which we proudly “perfected”. This one I would rate as above average. The dressing was creamy, and all the flavors were balanced. The parm crisp was a delicious touch.

The mussels, which were on happy hour pricing, were not as good. They were fresh, plumb, well prepared and tasty on their own, but the sauce could use some refinement. It was too heavy on the tomato paste. I would lighted the use of tomato paste and incorporate some wine and lighten up the sauce.

Now the steak and side (street corn). The steak was decent. It was tender, well seasoned and well cooked. It had pretty good marbling too. I think a bit of aging would of enhanced it. Overall, 8/10. The corn was VERY good. The corn was fresh and crisp. Flavors were bold and tasty with a lot of acidity coming through.

For dessert, one of my favs – stick toffee. This one was average. The like the cake soaking moist.

Overall, service was attentive and efficient. Food was good and atmosphere was good. I wouldn’t rush to return, but I would return someday (only because there are SO many options in Vegas for steak). If you are looking for a steakhouse near the strip but not on the strip, consider Cleaver. If this was in a city with more limited options, it would easily be in the tops.

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