Sara’s at the Palms Casino Resort

— Staff Writer

At a glance: Sara’s is a secret restaurant within a restaurant, located inside Mabel’s BBQ at the Palms Resort Casino. The swanky and decadent speakeasy interior provides the perfect setting for an intimate dining experience that is both fun and bourgeois. The menu features only a few items, but each is supremely executed, with tableside carving and service by waiters in tuxedos. You will also want to make use of the bar, which offers some must-try cocktails. (Sara’s is on our list of best steakhouses in Vegas.)

palms.com/eat-and-drink/saras

Quick Information

  • The Palms – Inside of Mabel’s BBQ
  • Wednesday - Sunday
    5:30 pm to 11 pm
  • Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays
  • Reservations Required
  • 702.944.5941
  • Proper Attire Required: Smart Casual
The intimate indoor seating area like a Speakeasy but for fine food, with tiled floor, smart blue chairs, and a private bar
This looks like you could enjoy fine dining while overhearing whispers of the syndicate's next big caper. I give secret restaurants 5/5. Image: Palms

In full: Sara’s is a special restaurant brought to life by Chef Michael Symon. This new and intimate supper club is tucked away within Mabel’s BBQ at the iconic Palms Casino and Resort in Las Vegas. A newcomer to Sin City, Symon is a famed chef much in demand, who has finally taken the plunge to open not just one, but two restaurants in town.

Unlike the unpretentious experience at Mabel’s BBQ, this modern speakeasy is inspired by the nostalgic restaurants of Old Las Vegas and offers a refined, and even elite atmosphere. The décor of Mabel’s which is evocative of a European barn soon gives way to a much refined and almost jewel-box interior as guests pass into Sara’s. The small but high-energy space is sophisticated, and intimate, providing the proper setting for a meaningful dinner for two. Couples may wish to have a romantic night here, or businessmen seal an important deal. Whatever their reasons, Sara’s will lend it the appropriate weight and meaning.

The outside seating area with chairs in rich blues, a curving booth in black, and wood tables, including more relaxed lower height tables
Even the "outdoor" dining area has that hidden-away feel. I give low tables 5/5. Image: Palms

The menu is quite small, but is well curated. Featuring a small array of tableside preparations and classic French-American cuisine such as smoked prime rib, truffle fried chicken and an extensive raw bar selection, the palate of any gourmand will be satisfied. Desserts include some things we haven’t seen for a while, such as cherries jubilee and bananas foster cooked tableside. You’ll have a feeling you stepped back into another time.

The restaurant interior was designed by Symon’s wife, Liz Symon, in partnership with Parts + Labor. Sara’s has a 19th century American speakeasy vibe both similar and different from other Las Vegas steakhouse Strip Steak. Guests will enjoy a leather-wrapped bar complete with brass accents, natural stone tables, an intricate mosaic floor and even a hidden back garden with views of the Las Vegas Strip. There is a sumptuous quality that is decadent and fulfilling. This is a place to enjoy for those who can.

Every detail is polished, and well executed, with a showmanship that tells a story of quality. The wait staff are uniformed in tuxedos, and to even enter, patrons are given a golden key. In some ways, this is the up-market Tournament of Kings, a show with a meal.

Trivia: Sara’s gets its name from the mother of Symon’s business partner, Doug Petkovic, who has long inspired Doug, Michael and Liz. Their shared Cleveland roots have brought them together, and let them bring this wonderful venue to life.

This article has 566 words.

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Staff Writer

Hi! I'm a staff writer for Way to Vegas.