I am a seasoned lurker of these boards and albeit a veteran of the hobby, I'm getting reacquainted with it after a several year hiatus. Using my semi-centennial as an excuse, I will be spending 3 nights in Vegas during mid-May and fully intend to avail myself of the finest cuisine, entertainment and debauchery the city has to offer.  
 
I have gleaned a lot of good information from the discussion boards and I am very grateful for the excellent posts thus far. I'm hoping for feedback on restaurants and dining companions. Any thoughts on Joël Robuchon? Any suggestions for comparable alternatives?  For two of the nights I will be joined by a close friend so I will be hoping to recruit a few ladies who are comfortable in such surroundings.  Suggestions and solicitations are welcome.  
 
Although not a newbie per se, given my recent and prolonged absence, I lack current references and the online track record I once had is archived in the tomes of a now defunct board. I did join a reputable verification service and I hope my status won't be a barrier to enjoying a lovely lady's company. Thanks in advance.

If I'm not mistaken, Joel Robuchon is the only 3 Star Michelin rated restaurant in Vegas.  So if you're looking for the best of the best, you've found it right there.

I am a self professed Foodie and Amature Molecular Gastronomist and I love Joel Robuchon (especially since they closed Restaurant Charlie at the Palazzo, my all time favorite guilty food pleasure). However I find myself more often next door at L'atelier as it’s much more laid back, their menu changes more often and I feel more comfortable dining there when alone since they have bar seating.… I will try to post a picture from my L'atelier visit a few weeks ago (Crispy Fried Polenta under the most perfectly cooked Egg I have ever eaten, topped with Lardons, Black Truffles, Micro Greens and shaved Parmesan).  JR himself does come into Vegas but only about 4 times a year to make the typical seasonal menu changes to the main Robuchon Menu (Heavier on the Truffles each October, lighter fare and more Seafood in March, etc) but at L'atelier the executive chef (I think his name is Steve Benjamin even though he is very French, lol) has a lot more creative control to make changes daily or weekly..  


The only thing I can think to say for someone considering Joel Robuchon for a companion date is to expect at least a 3hr meal and to know you won't have much “alone” time for uninterrupted private conversation when you dine there. The service is beyond excellent and at times you can find 4 servers hovering over your table, refilling your water after 2 sips, clearing dishes, resetting the place settings, then you have 3 min of alone time before the next course is served. Of course since each course demands a 30-60 second dissertation on the ingredients, origins, and inspiration of each dish followed by the Sommelier explaining the Varietal, Region, and tasting notes for the wine pairing that’s another 3 min per course (x14) and that’s before I get a chance to ask my geeky food questions, lol. Totally worth the price tag if you are a true foodie and your date isn't someone who is turned off by a foie gras foam or afraid to try the Tuna belly confit you both will be fine!  

-- Modified on 4/9/2013 2:31:29 AM

This really depends on where you are staying.
Also, Wynn has some of the most romantic places for dinner.
Bartolotta (cabana around the small pool)
SW Steakhouse (on patio overlooking lake of dreams)
Mizumi (especially when the full walls are open to the outside lake)

I have had the chance to eat at Joel Robuchon and while I will admit it's a once in a lifetime dinner, my current favorite in LV is E by Jose Andres at the Cosmo.
It's a small room inside the Jaleo restaurant that has 2 sittings of 8 people every night. The food is some of the best I have ever had, the staff is amazing and I have always met cool people during my experiences there.

Having never experienced Robuchon I would love to be initiated by a mature gentleman who loves the company of a lovely world-traveled lady! I adore fine-dining and am a great conversationalist and am very comfortable sharing company with other close friends too!!!! And I have several girlfriends that I would recommend to join us too!!!  

I like your style senor!!! wink..
Its all good in my book.. If you like Portugese/swedish exotic looks ..  
Whatever your choice the ladies in Las Vegas entertain In a manner deserving of your kindness and generosity
sincerely
Lovely Lorena

two thumbs up

I appreciate the time it took to write such thoughtful responses. You all have me more to think about. Looks like a second trip will be in order...

it really is 'once in a lifetime'. Right next down is the VERY good L'Atelier...not as private, but also excellent. Enjoy!