Las Vegas has evolved dramatically over the past two decades, with new resorts, attractions, and restaurants emerging continuously. Among the plethora of culinary choices on the Strip, a select few establishments manage to stand out, creating memorable experiences for both locals and visitors. Scarpetta at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is one such gem. As a Las Vegas resident for over two decades, I’ve had the privilege of dining at many of the city’s finest establishments, but Scarpetta holds a special place in my heart. It offers a unique combination of sophistication and a warm, inviting ambiance, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting Las Vegas.
The Ambiance: Modern Elegance Meets Comfort
Scarpetta’s ambiance strikes a perfect balance between modern elegance and comforting familiarity. From the moment you walk in, you’re enveloped in a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s design blends contemporary aesthetics with rustic elements, creating a setting that is chic without being intimidating.
Key Features of Scarpetta’s Ambiance
- Floor-to-Ceiling Windows: These expansive windows offer more than just a view; they present a spectacular panorama of the Las Vegas Strip, particularly mesmerizing at night when the city is ablaze with lights. Dining by the window allows you to enjoy your meal with a breathtaking backdrop, adding to the overall experience.
- Rich, Earthy Tones: The restaurant’s color palette is dominated by warm, earthy tones such as browns, deep reds, and creams. These colors create a soothing environment, making it easy to relax and focus on the culinary delights in front of you. The interplay of these tones with the subtle lighting creates a space that feels both intimate and grand.
- Open Kitchen: The open kitchen concept is a standout feature at Scarpetta. This setup allows diners to witness the culinary magic as it happens, adding an element of theater to the dining experience. Watching the chefs meticulously prepare each dish enhances your appreciation for the skill and artistry involved.
- Comfortable Seating: Every detail at Scarpetta is designed with comfort in mind, including the seating arrangements. Whether you’re seated at a plush booth, a spacious table, or at the elegant bar, the seating is designed to encourage guests to linger and fully enjoy their dining experience. The chairs and booths are ergonomically designed, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout your meal.
The Menu: A Modern Take on Italian Classics
Scarpetta’s menu is a testament to the art of balancing tradition with innovation. Each dish offers a fresh take on Italian classics, blending authentic flavors with modern culinary techniques. The menu is carefully curated to cater to a wide range of palates, from those who seek the comfort of familiar flavors to those looking to explore something new and exciting. The seasonal changes ensure that the ingredients are always fresh and at their peak, resulting in vibrant and flavorful dishes.
Appetizers: A Prelude to the Main Event
The appetizers at Scarpetta are more than just starters; they are a carefully crafted introduction to the culinary journey that lies ahead. Each appetizer is designed to awaken your senses and prepare your palate for the rich, complex flavors that characterize the rest of the menu.
Must-Try Appetizers
- Creamy Polenta: This dish is a revelation in texture and flavor. The polenta is cooked to a velvety smoothness and is served with a fricassee of truffled mushrooms, adding a layer of earthy richness. The truffle oil enhances the mushrooms’ natural flavors, making each bite a luxurious experience.
- Yellowtail Crudo: A light and refreshing start to your meal, the Yellowtail Crudo features thinly sliced, melt-in-your-mouth yellowtail, complemented by a subtle olio di zenzero (ginger oil) and pickled red onions. The combination of fresh, raw fish with the bright, tangy accompaniments makes this dish a refreshing way to begin your dining experience.
- Mozzarella en Carrozza: This appetizer is a nod to comfort food at its finest. The mozzarella is encased in a crispy golden crust, and the marinara sauce provides a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese. It’s a simple dish but executed with such finesse that it feels like a guilty pleasure you won’t soon forget.
Pasta: The Heart of the Menu
Pasta is the cornerstone of any Italian menu, and at Scarpetta, it is elevated to an art form. Each pasta dish is handcrafted daily, ensuring that the texture is perfect and the flavors are authentic. The dishes range from traditional favorites to more adventurous offerings, but each one is prepared with the same level of care and precision.
Iconic Pasta Dishes
- Spaghetti with Tomato and Basil: This seemingly simple dish is a masterclass in flavor balance. The pasta is cooked to an ideal al dente, allowing it to retain just the right amount of bite. The sauce, made from sweet San Marzano tomatoes, is rich and vibrant, with the basil adding a fresh, aromatic note. It’s a dish that proves sometimes less is more.
- Duck and Foie Gras Ravioli: The Duck and Foie Gras Ravioli is a must-try for those looking for something a bit more indulgent. The richness of the foie gras and the savory depth of the duck are perfectly encapsulated in delicate pasta parcels. The marsala reduction provides a sweet counterpoint to the savory filling, creating a luxurious and satisfying dish.
- Short Rib and Bone Marrow Agnolotti: This dish is a flavor powerhouse. The tender short rib and rich bone marrow are encased in perfectly cooked agnolotti, small pasta pockets that burst with flavor. The sauce, a rich blend of butter and veal jus, coats each piece, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
Main Courses: A Culinary Journey
While the pasta dishes are often the highlight, the main courses at Scarpetta are equally impressive. The menu offers a variety of choices, from hearty meat dishes to lighter seafood options, each prepared with the same meticulous attention to detail. These dishes are designed to showcase the finest ingredients, allowing their natural flavors to shine through.
Standout Main Courses
- Braised Short Ribs of Beef: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, elevated to fine dining. The short ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful meat. The creamy polenta that accompanies the ribs adds a smooth, buttery contrast, while the red wine reduction ties everything together with its rich, deep flavor.
- Black Cod: A lighter option, the Black Cod is a study in delicate flavors and textures. The fish is cooked just until it flakes apart, retaining its buttery richness, while the crispy skin adds a pleasant contrast. The parsnip purée is smooth and subtly sweet, providing the perfect base for the dish, while the tomato confit adds a burst of freshness.
- Mediterranean Branzino: This dish offers a taste of the Mediterranean with its simple yet flavorful preparation. The branzino is roasted whole, allowing the skin to become wonderfully crisp while the flesh remains moist and tender. The lemon-caper sauce is a classic accompaniment, adding a bright, tangy note that complements the mild flavor of the fish.
Desserts: A Sweet Finale
After indulging in Scarpetta’s savory delights, the dessert menu provides the perfect opportunity to end your meal on a sweet note. The desserts at Scarpetta are as thoughtfully crafted as the rest of the menu, offering a mix of traditional Italian sweets and more contemporary creations. Each dessert is designed to provide a satisfying conclusion to your dining experience.
Dessert Highlights
- Amedei Chocolate Cake: This dessert is a chocolate lover’s dream. Made with Amedei chocolate, renowned for its quality and depth of flavor, the cake is rich, dark, and deeply satisfying. The warm, flowing center adds an extra layer of decadence, making each bite a celebration of chocolate in its purest form.
- Vanilla Budino: For those who prefer a lighter dessert, the Vanilla Budino is an excellent choice. This creamy pudding is velvety smooth, with a rich vanilla flavor that is perfectly complemented by the sweet, slightly bitter caramel sauce. The sprinkle of sea salt adds a delightful contrast, making each bite a balance of sweet and savory.
- Coconut Panna Cotta: This dessert is a refreshing end to your meal. The panna cotta is light and creamy, with a subtle coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with the tropical fruit compote. It cleanses the palate and leaves you feeling satisfied but not overly full.
Wine and Cocktails: A Perfect Pairing
Scarpetta’s beverage program is an integral part of the dining experience. The restaurant offers an extensive wine list that spans the globe, with a strong focus on Italian wines. Scarpetta’s wine list has something to suit every taste, whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking to enjoy a good glass of vino with your meal. In addition to the wine selection, the cocktail menu features innovative drinks that perfectly complement the flavors of the food.
Wine Selection: From Italy and Beyond
The wine list at Scarpetta is carefully curated and includes both well-known labels and hidden gems. The sommelier is knowledgeable and approachable, always ready to help you find the perfect wine to match your meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a bold red or a crisp white, the wine list offers plenty of options.
Recommended Wine Pairings
- For Pasta Dishes: A medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti Classico, is the ideal companion for tomato-based pasta dishes. Its bright acidity and cherry notes cut through the richness of the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor. For richer pasta dishes, like the Duck and Foie Gras Ravioli, a more robust wine, such as Barolo or Brunello di Montalcino, provides the depth needed to complement the dish’s complexity.
- For Seafood: When enjoying seafood dishes, a crisp, mineral-driven white wine, like Vermentino or Gavi di Gavi, is the perfect choice. Their freshness enhances the delicate flavors of the seafood without overpowering them.
- For Main Courses: The bold flavors of the Braised Short Ribs call for a wine with similar intensity, such as an Amarone or a Super Tuscan. These wines have the structure and richness needed to stand up to the robust flavors of the meat. For the lighter Black Cod, a Pinot Noir offers a gentle, fruity contrast that complements the fish without overshadowing it.
Signature Cocktails: Unique and Flavorful
The cocktail menu at Scarpetta is as thoughtfully crafted as its food menu. Each drink is designed to complement the flavors of the dishes, using fresh ingredients and creative combinations to create something truly special. Scarpetta’s mixologists have something to offer whether you’re a fan of classic cocktails or looking for something new.
Must-Try Cocktails
- Scarpetta Negroni: This signature cocktail is a twist on the classic Negroni, featuring gin, Campari, and a house-made vermouth blend. The result is a bittersweet drink that is both refreshing and sophisticated, perfect for starting your meal on a high note.
- Limoncello Spritz: A light and bubbly cocktail, the Limoncello Spritz is a refreshing blend of limoncello, prosecco, and soda. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy a lighter drink with a bit of effervescence, and it pairs beautifully with the lighter dishes on the menu.
- Blood Orange Margarita: This cocktail offers a citrusy twist on the traditional margarita. Made with fresh blood orange juice, tequila, and a touch of agave syrup, it’s sweet, tart, and utterly refreshing. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy on a warm Las Vegas evening.
Tips for Dining at Scarpetta: Maximizing Your Experience
Dining at Scarpetta is more than just a meal—it’s an experience to be savored. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a seasoned regular, these insider tips will help you make the most of your visit. From choosing the best time to visit to selecting the perfect dishes, these suggestions ensure that your dining experience is nothing short of extraordinary.
Best Times to Visit
- Weeknights: Scarpetta is a popular dining destination but is often less crowded on weeknights. If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed dining experience, consider making a reservation for a Monday or Tuesday evening. The atmosphere is still vibrant, but you’ll enjoy a more leisurely pace and potentially more personalized service.
- Late Evenings: For those who enjoy a more intimate dining experience, booking a table for a later time slot can be a great option. The restaurant tends to be quieter after the main dinner rush, allowing you to enjoy your meal in a more tranquil setting. It’s also a great time to take in the stunning nighttime views of the Strip through the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows.
- Special Occasions: Scarpetta is a popular choice for celebrations, from anniversaries to birthdays. If you’re planning to dine on a special occasion or holiday, be sure to make your reservation well in advance. The restaurant often offers special menus for these occasions, adding an extra touch of elegance to your dining experience.
Seating Preferences
- Window Tables: The views from Scarpetta are one of its standout features, and the best way to enjoy them is by requesting a table by the window. Whether you’re dining at sunset or later in the evening, the view of the Strip adds an extra layer of magic to your meal. Be sure to mention your preference when making a reservation, as these tables are highly sought after.
- Private Dining: If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply prefer a more private experience, inquire about Scarpetta’s private dining rooms. These spaces offer an exclusive setting for your meal, with the same excellent service and menu options as the main dining room. It’s the perfect way to make a special evening even more memorable.
- Bar Seating: For a more casual experience or if you’re dining solo, consider sitting at the bar. The bar area offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy the full menu while chatting with the friendly bartenders. It’s also a great option if you’re looking to grab a quick bite or drink without the formality of a full meal.
Ordering Tips
- Shareable Dishes: Many of Scarpetta’s dishes are perfect for sharing, especially the appetizers and pasta. This allows you to sample a wider variety of flavors and textures, making your meal even more enjoyable. Consider ordering a few different appetizers to start, followed by a couple of pasta dishes to share with your table.
- Wine Pairing: Trust the sommelier to guide you through the wine list. With their deep knowledge of the wines and the menu, they can recommend the perfect pairing to enhance the flavors of your meal. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or a casual drinker, their expertise will help you discover new favorites.
- Pacing: One of the keys to enjoying your meal at Scarpetta is pacing. The servers are skilled at timing the courses to allow you to fully savor each dish. Don’t hesitate to let your server know if you’d like more time between courses or if you’re ready to move on to the next dish. This level of personalization ensures that your dining experience is tailored to your preferences.
Things to Do Before and After Your Meal: Making a Night of It
Scarpetta’s prime location within The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas makes it the perfect starting point for an unforgettable night out. Whether you’re looking to explore the hotel’s unique offerings before your meal or seeking entertainment afterward, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here’s how to make the most of your evening, ensuring that your visit to Scarpetta is just one part of a memorable Las Vegas experience.
Pre-Dinner Activities
- Explore The Cosmopolitan: The Cosmopolitan is not just a hotel; it’s an experience. Before your dinner at Scarpetta, take some time to explore the hotel’s art installations, which are scattered throughout the property. There’s plenty to see, from the digital art displays to the eclectic sculptures. The casino area is also worth a visit, with its modern design and lively atmosphere.
- Happy Hour at Vesper Bar: Vesper Bar is a chic spot for a pre-dinner drink, located just a short walk from Scarpetta. The bar offers an excellent selection of craft cocktails, each expertly mixed by skilled bartenders. Its sleek, modern design makes it a great place to relax and enjoy a drink before heading to your dinner reservation.
- Shopping: The Cosmopolitan features a variety of upscale boutiques, offering everything from designer clothing to unique souvenirs. If you have time before your meal, indulge in some retail therapy. The shops are conveniently located near Scarpetta, making it easy to browse before settling in for dinner.
Post-Dinner Entertainment
- Visit the Chandelier Bar: After your meal, make your way to The Chandelier, one of Las Vegas’s most iconic bars. The Chandelier is a stunning three-story bar encased in thousands of crystals, creating a dazzling, immersive environment. Each level offers a different experience, from craft cocktails on the top floor to a more intimate lounge setting on the lower levels. It’s the perfect place to continue your evening in style.
- Catch a Show: The Cosmopolitan is known for hosting a variety of live entertainment, from intimate concerts to large-scale productions. Check the hotel’s schedule before your visit and plan to catch a show after your meal. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, comedy, or a theatrical performance, there’s something for everyone.
- Nightclub: If you’re in the mood to dance, Marquee Nightclub, located within The Cosmopolitan, is one of Las Vegas’s premier nightlife destinations. The club features multiple levels, each with its own unique vibe, from the high-energy main room to the more relaxed lounge areas. It’s just a short walk from Scarpetta, making it an easy choice for continuing the night.
A Must-Visit Culinary Experience
Scarpetta at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey that seamlessly blends traditional Italian cooking with modern innovation. Whether you’re a Las Vegas local or a visitor looking to experience the best the city has to offer, Scarpetta should be at the top of your dining list. From the elegant ambiance and stunning views to the expertly crafted dishes and impeccable service, every aspect of the Scarpetta experience is designed to delight the senses and create lasting memories.
The next time you’re looking for an unforgettable meal in Las Vegas, make a reservation at Scarpetta. With its perfect combination of ambiance, flavor, and service, it’s a dining experience that you’ll want to return to again and again. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a night out, Scarpetta offers a level of culinary excellence that is truly unmatched.
