Has anyone been to Norman's?

[jnovgirl]

Several weeks ago I went to an event at Norman's on Sunset (just east of Sunset Plaza). Unfortunately, it was a wine event -- no food -- but the place is gorgeous, and the menu sounded fantastic. I've been hoping to give it a shot, but between the prices and my general aversion to the Strip, I was hoping to hear some other reviews first. Anyone been?

[ipse dixit]

I really want to like this place, but the 3 time I've been the food has been uneven each time, as was the service -- sometimes overly doting, other times quizically nonchalant.

I can't really recommend this place unless you are on a coporate account. The prices simply don't justify it.

[Me]

agreed. maybe go for the late-night tapas on the terrace. they sound good and you won't feel as slighted paying those prices versus the $30+ entrees. the sommelier peter is great.

[Jerome]

I enjoyed it, but was there for a promotional dinner. There are some reviews lower on the page.

[Barham Turner]

I went to Norman's in August. Norman Van Aken was actually there, and came around to our table. I thought the food was uneven. The amuse-bouches weren't very interesting, which was not a good way to start a major meal. On the other hand, the grilled Mongolian veal chop was absolutely outstanding, full of flavor. (It should have been for the price, which I think was around $40.)

The service ranged from superb (the sommelier) to fake (a manager type in a suit). There was a chowder called something like Turks & Caycos conch chowder. One of our party asked the manager-type what type of seafood Turks & Caycos was, thinking it was in addition to the conch. He clearly had no idea and launched into a long explanation of the flavor of Turks & Caycos. Finally a nearby waiter explained that Turks & Caycos was a place where the conch is from (I knew that, too, and was just waiting to see how this attempt at a bluff turned out).

My takeaway was that Norman's is a great expense-account place. With my own money, I'll take Spago anytime. Although Norman's outdoor tapas bar is probably worth trying at a more reasonable tariff.