A handful of the Strip’s gourmet palaces held back from reopening after last year’s pandemic restaurant restrictions eased, awaiting the return of larger and more diverse groups of Vegas visitors. The NoMad restaurant in the hotel of the same name in Park MGM – now known as the NoMad Library – was closed for 18 months. General Manager Peter Lederman says his team is overjoyed to finally get back to work in this unique dining room. And the introduction of a fresh fall menu this month added to the excitement and allowed the kitchen to return to the full scope of NoMad cuisine.
That means the signature roast chicken for two ($ 90) stuffed with foie gras, black truffles, and brioche is back, alongside an even more celebratory American Wagyu prime rib ($ 150) made with porcini mushrooms and black garlic, as well as everything Trimmings rubbed in is designed for two (or more).
But you don’t have to train so hard to enjoy these seasonal specialties. A $ 17 roasted sunchokes, dandelion greens, and hazelnut salad is the perfect second round after half a dozen chilled oysters ($ 26) with invigorating “cucumber snow”. Cooked at the table with togarashi, tamarind, horseradish, shiso, and chili, the tuna tartare ($ 26) is unlike any other version you’ve ever had.
Ricotta Cavatelli ($ 29) with fennel sausage, Grana Padano cheese, and some black truffle brings all the richness without going overboard. And while delicious side dishes like lobster and truffle mac and cheese ($ 29) require your attention, the subtle and seasonally roasted honey nut squash ($ 14) with sage and lemon ricotta is just as satisfying. Damn it, it feels downright festive.
NOMAD LIBRARY Park-MGM, 702-730-6785. Thursday-Monday, 5 pm-10pm
