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Food for Thought

with John Curtas

Thursdays 6:33 a.m., 8:33 a.m. & 6:29 p.m.
Saturdays 9:35 a.m.

Food for Thought

Because someone has to champion truth, justice and a decent Caesar Salad, John Curtas shares his Food for Thought on KNPR.

"I'm going to call this my year of eating dangerously... and you my dear listener will be guiding my wallet and palate. Just call or write the station with your suggestions, and I'll be putting them into practice sooner than you think!"

For more reviews and culinary miscellany, visit John Curtas's Blog, Eating Las Vegas.

Send your comments and advice to fft@knpr.org.

Podcasts


Aug 28, 2008

   

Restaurant Week and Three Square

    John Curtas urges everyone to dine out during Restaurant Week as a benefit for a community program that feeds the needy.

Aug 22, 2008

   

Mexican Mediocrity

    Despite your recommendations John Curtas finds it hard to find a good Mexican restaurant in Las Vegas.

Aug 15, 2008

   

RAKU Rocks

    John Curtas has discovered a new, authentic Japanese restaurant this is affordable and 'every dish was flawless.'

Aug 7, 2008

   

CUT Rocks

    John Curtas continues eating his way through the Palazzo and finds another winner with CUT.

Jul 24, 2008

   

The Palazzo Restaurants 2

    John Curtas has made it to ALL of the restaurants at the Palazzo...large and small, and he even found a good restaurant that most anyone can afford.

Jul 18, 2008

   

The Palazzo Restaurants

    There are lots and lots of restaurants at the Palazzo. Our food critic, John Curtas, says they operate at lots and lots of levels of quality, too.

Jun 26, 2008

   

DJT

    For John Curtas, some restaurants challenge a diner's self-restraint. Here's his review of DJT.

Jun 19, 2008

   

Reno 911

    John Curtas's day job takes him to places where he gets the chance to find some decent restaurants. He was in Reno recently, and managed to find a couple of good restaurants, though it took some searching.

Jun 12, 2008

   

Bad Manners part 2

    Last week John Curtas told us about a Las Vegas diner who had some problems with both an entree that was served and the restaurant's response. Other food critics chime in...

Jun 5, 2008

   

Bad Manners

    What to do when your restaurant experience goes bad? John Curtas has some advice.

May 22, 2008

   

A Tale of Two Italians

    John Curtas has found some great Italian cuisine, in neighborhoods where you might not think to look.

May 15, 2008

   

Bon Appetit Uncork'd 08

    Some of the most famous chefs in the world did some cooking in Las Vegas last weekend. John Curtas was in 'food nerd' heaven.

May 8, 2008

   

Payard Patisserie and Bistro

    It's one thing when you have to travel 2,500 miles for irresistible deserts, but when those same deserts are available right at home, John Curtas gets worried about his waistline.

Apr 10, 2008

   

Bryan Ogden

    Bradley Ogden may be the name on the restaurant, but John Curtas knows the real work has been done by Bryan Ogden...who is moving on.

Apr 3, 2008

   

Is Everything Okay?

    When the waiter asks the question, what does he really want to know? After a recent experience at Dos Caminos, John Curtas has some advice.

Mar 27, 2008

   

You Don't Get What You Pay For

    Studies show that most people believe, 'the higher the price the better the product'. John Curtas says the same holds true for wine.

Mar 20, 2008

   

Asia Saves the Day

    For some weeks now, critic John Curtas has been evaluating restaurants recommended by listeners. He's found a couple of good Asian restaurants.

Mar 6, 2008

   

Young Guns

    A group of young Las Vegas chefs traveled to New York for a prestigious demonstration. John Curtas says they more than held their own.

Feb 28, 2008

   

Stop the Madness

    Eating well is easy to do in Las Vegas...but so is running up a big dinner tab. John Curtas has some thoughts on why.

Feb 14, 2008

   

Cajun BBQ Shack

    Pushed out of his comfort zone, John Curtas explores a new area and finds great BBQ.

Jan 31, 2008

   

Cathouse Jumps the Shark

    John Curtas says Kerry Simon has spent too much time becoming a 'celebrity chef' and not enough time cooking good food.

Jan 24, 2008

   

Dat Sum Dim Sum part 2

    Last week John Curtas went to Hong Kong for great dim sum. This time his quest for dim sum is a bit closer to home.

Jan 17, 2008

   

Dat Sum Dim Sum

    John Curtas travels halfway round the world in search of authentic Chinese dim sum, and finds it in Hong Kong.

Jan 10, 2008

   

What's With White Chocolate?

    John Curtas found surprises at the White Chocolate Grill...some good, some not so good.

Jan 3, 2008

   

Wine Bars

    Whether it's a wine bar or a wine lounge, John Curtas says you should be able to find the place and the wine to suit you.

Dec 20, 2007

   

More Major Awards 2007

    Because they are so big, John Curtas takes a second week to complete his major awards for 2007.

Dec 14, 2007

   

Major Awards 2007

    As the year winds down, it's time to size up some of the best of 2007...at least according to John Curtas.

Dec 6, 2007

   

Food News To Use

    John Curtas has the latest food news you need to know.

Nov 29, 2007

   

Joel Robuchon

    John Curtas recounts his conversation with Joel Robuchon.

Nov 22, 2007

   

A Beanie Thanksgiving To All

    John Curtas is feeling his beans...

Nov 15, 2007

   

Taken by Tableau

    John Curtas found a swanky restaurant with awesome eats...and they serve breakfast!

Nov 8, 2007

   

Pamplemousse le Restaurant

    John Curtas revisits a classic Las Vegas restaurant, he swore he'd avoid.

Nov 1, 2007

   

Handicapping the Michelins

    The influential Michelin Guide will bestow it's stars on Las Vegas soon. John Curtas has his predictions.

Sep 13, 2007

   

Old Favorites

    John Curtas revisits some of his favorite restaurants, Postrio and Craftsteak.

Sep 6, 2007

   

The Beer Hunter

    John Curtas has a fond obituary this week for the king of beers.

Aug 30, 2007

   

Eat Out Now!

    Enjoy great food at a great price, while benefitting great causes. John Curtas has the details.

Aug 23, 2007

   

Golden Steer Steak House

    When you have a hankering for beef, John Curtas says you can still find some of the best in Las Vegas at the Golden Steer.

Aug 16, 2007

   

Food News You Can Use

    Breaking news from the world of restaurants. Correspondent John Curtas files his report.

Aug 9, 2007

   

Divorce: Family Style

    John Curtas finds himself near the Clark County Family Courthouse and stumbles on a great Thai restaurant.

Aug 2, 2007

   

Sensational Sen of Japan

    Cooked or not cooked, John Curtas likes what he found at Sen of Japan, our best neighborhood sushi bar.

Jul 19, 2007

   

Beef Three Ways

    Steak done okay, delicious BBQ, and the best burger in Las Vegas.

Jul 15, 2007

   

Taken by Tableau

    John Curtas found a swanky restaurant with awesome eats...and they serve breakfast!

Jul 12, 2007

   

The Real Thing at Dong Ting Spring

    A trip to Dong Ting Spring leaves John Curtas sweating, but that's a good thing.

Jul 5, 2007

   

Grape Street Gripe

    It's a neighborhood hangout, but John Curtas doesn't feel too neighborly about the Grape Street Cafe.

Jun 14, 2007

   

Vega's Cafe Lives!

    John Curtas goes in search of a Vegas favorite...and finds it 'way out there'.

Jun 6, 2007

   

Can't Stop the Music at B&B Ristorante

    A new arrival at the Venetian doesn't sound so good to John Curtas.

May 31, 2007

   

After-Partying the Boulud and Bartolotta Way

    Where do great chefs go when the party's over? John Curtas found they go to the kitchen where the partying never stops.

May 24, 2007

   

No Lunch Today

    ...or any day at most fine dining establishments in Las Vegas. John Curtas says that's one reason why Las Vegas will never be considered a gourmet destination.

May 17, 2007

   

A Little Alimentary Alliteration

    A lot of alliteration from John Curtas.

May 10, 2007

   

Learning to Cook the Bon Appetit Way

    John Curtas anticipates a culinary event that inspires some wistful memories.

Apr 12, 2007

   

Shanghai Lily

    John Curtas chooses Shanghai Lily as an example of a Chinese restaurant with talented chefs who toil in anonymity.

Apr 5, 2007

   

Table for One

    Don't be embarrassed to dine alone. John Curtas says take a tip from an ancient Roman emperor and enjoy your own company.

Mar 29, 2007

   

When Not in Rome...

    John Curtas returns from Italy and goes in search of a real Italian restaurant in Las Vegas.

Mar 22, 2007

   

Barbecue Bliss at First Friday

    John Curtas finds some great BBQ at an unlikely place.

Mar 15, 2007

   

The Chinatown That Isn't

    John Curtas explores one of his favorite streets and it's not the Strip. He finds some great Asian restaurants.

Mar 8, 2007

   

Vintner Grill

    A west side location that's a hit with the locals and gets a decent review from dining critic John Curtas.

Mar 1, 2007

   

Happy Chinese New Year

    John Curtas uses the Chinese New Year as an excuse to visit one of his favorite restaurants, Ping Pang Pong at the Gold Coast.

Feb 22, 2007

   

Cheesy Jokes

    He's no Garrison Keillor, but John Curtas goes head to head on packing as many puns into his own 'cheesy joke show'.

Feb 15, 2007

   

Breakfast at Chez Rispoli

    John Curtas has another postcard and snapshots from his recent trip to France.

Feb 1, 2007

   

Lyon, France - 2007 Bocuse d'Or

    John Curtas goes to a legendary culinary event and discovers he could have predicted the outcome without leaving home.

Jan 25, 2007

   

Fan Mail from Florida

    John Curtas dons his Star Wars persona to answer a listener letter concerning Las Vegas steak houses.

Jan 18, 2007

   

Mexican Food Blues

    A road trip to Albuquerque brings home a stark contrast for critic John Curtas.

Jan 4, 2007

   

Happy New Year 2007

    John Curtas starts the new year by looking back at 2006 and his European tour highlights.

Dec 28, 2006

   

Major Awards 2006 part 3

    John Curtas finishes up his Major Awards for 2006 by naming his best of the biggies.

Dec 21, 2006

   

Major Awards 2006 part 2

    John Curtas continues his list of major award winners.

Dec 14, 2006

   

Major Awards 2006 part 1

    John Curtas takes time out to make some Major Awards for the year. Some recognize good and some not so good achievements in dining.

Dec 7, 2006

   

A Good Steak and More

    John Curtas scouts locations for quality holiday fare and finds some great steaks.

Nov 30, 2006

   

Picasso Redux

    John Curtas revisits the restaurant with it's own worldclass art collection and finds it better than ever.

Nov 23, 2006

   

Grandma Schroader's Sour Beans

    John Curtas confesses that the recipe he has shared with us in years past was not the 'authentic' recipe. This is the real thing.

Nov 16, 2006

   

Spago Still Rocks

    Wolfgang Puck opened his restaurant in the Forum Shops at Caesars 14 years ago. John Curtas says a spectacular redesign of both the space and the menu is great.

Nov 9, 2006

   

Strip Steak - a Michael Mina restaurant

    John Curtas says Strip Steak at Mandalay Bay may be serving the best beef in town, with a winning wine list, but little else.

Nov 2, 2006

   

New Nora's

    John Curtas goes in search of the new Nora's and likes what he finds.

Oct 26, 2006

   

Triple George

    John Curtas finds an old-school, downtown restaurant that has a lot to like.

Oct 5, 2006

   

COPIA, GQ, Vogue and Me

    Everybody's talking about Las Vegas dining including our intrepid commentator John Curtas.

Sep 28, 2006

   

Waylaid by Maylay

    John Curtas discovers the restaurant with the worst location, and other delecacies on and near Spring Mountain Road.

Sep 14, 2006

   

Last Night at the Royal Star

    John Curtas makes one last visit to The Royal Star in The Venetian for a meal of the tasty, exotic and slightly bizarre.

Sep 7, 2006

   

Savoy Part Deux

    Food critic John Curtas can't stop raving about what he's calling the 'best restaurant in the US.'

Aug 31, 2006

   

That Guy is Some Guy

    John Curtas sings the praises for Guy Savoy's restaurant at Caesars Palace.

Aug 17, 2006

   

Bland Reporting

    John Curtas says the Las Vegas Review Journal is missing the story when it comes to coverage of local restaurants and food.

Aug 10, 2006

   

A Gourmet Corner in Henderson

    John Curtas continues his exploration of great food in Henderson anf finds two more surprises...Julie Anne's Bakery and Valley Cheese and Wine.

Aug 3, 2006

   

Savoring Settebello

    John Curtas is shocked and quite pleased to find authentic pizza in Henderson.

Jul 27, 2006

   

Gelatos, Sherbets, Sorbettos and Such

    John Curtas has some delectable definitions of frozen desserts.

Jul 13, 2006

   

Vive Le Guide Michelin!

    The famed Michelin Guide is coming to rank Las Vegas restaurants and John Curtas says 'get ready!'

Jul 6, 2006

   

The Most Obnoxious Things in Food 2006

    We are barely midway through the year, but John Curtas has these opinions about the worst of the culinary calendar so far.

Jun 22, 2006

   

Bottle Service Blues

    John Curtas finds that Las Vegas nightclubs require a hefty 'table fee' to even get a seat.

Jun 15, 2006

   

A Dilemma for Dinner

    With his choice of world-class restaurants John Curtas still faces the usual question, 'Where do you want to eat?'

Jun 8, 2006

   

Border Grill

    John Curtas revisits a Mexican restaurant deep in the heart of Mandalay Bay.

Jun 1, 2006

   

An Affront At Applebee's

    John Curtas samples a popular chain restaurant, but is sure to take a celebrity chef along for the ride.

May 25, 2006

   

Hey Rube

    While we heard John Curtas' thoughts on East and West coast legendary dining establishments last week, he was making a pillgrimmage to one of them in New York...Le Cirque.

May 18, 2006

   

A Tale of Two Cities
Spago and Le Cirque

    John Curtas looks east and west at two legendary restaurants.

May 11, 2006

   

It's Arnie's Fault

    John Curtas digs deeper into the celebrity chef craze and lays the blame at the feet of legendary golfer Arnold Palmer.

Apr 27, 2006

   

Consider the Oyster

    John Curtas trys the oysters at Big Al's Oyster Bar in the Orleans Hotel and says the oyster pan roast may be the worst dish of the year.

Apr 20, 2006

   

Red Rock Resort

    John Curtas joins the VIPs at the opening of Red Rock Resort and is encouraged by the style and substance of the new casino.

Apr 13, 2006

   

Triple George

    John Curtas finds an old-school, downtown restaurant that has a lot to like.

Mar 23, 2006

   

The Good - Pasta and Seafood

    John Curtas is back on his feet and finding great seafood and pasta at some of his favorite restaurants on the Strip.

Mar 16, 2006

   

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

    When life gets tough John Curtas tries to find solace in food...and this time comes up empty.

Mar 9, 2006

   

Academy of the Overrated

    John Curtas explores all things overrated on the culinary stage.

Mar 2, 2006

   

Tempus Fugit

    John Curtas shares a few thoughts on eating out with the right attitude, and savoring every minute as time flies by.

Feb 23, 2006

   

What's So Punny About Eating Out

    Here's hoping you're not 'pun-phobic' because John Curtas resorts to groans in this week's dining review.

Feb 9, 2006

   

Swish

    John Curtas has another undiscovered, off-strip treasure, and all you have to do is 'just add water'.

Feb 2, 2006

   

Hilltop House Supper Club

    John Curtas celebrates his birthday at the Hilltop and despite some shortcomings, thoroughly enjoys it.

Jan 26, 2006

   

Getting A Handle On Hannah's

    This Asian bistro offers little to excite John Curtas, though he wishes it would succeed.

Jan 19, 2006

   

Resolutions

    John Curtas turns in his New Year's resolutions just in time to break them.

Jan 5, 2006

   

Even More Major Awards

    At the risk of wearing out the awards theme, John Curtas squeezes in a few more 'major awards'.

Dec 29, 2005

   

More Major Awards

    John Curtas offers his annual 'best of' list.

Dec 22, 2005

   

Major Awards

    John Curtas offers his annual 'best of' list, in the first of two parts.

Dec 8, 2005

   

Hamburger Helper part deux

    John Curtas found a great burger with sweet potato fries at The Burger Bar, but he has a bone to pick with the 'kobe'.

Dec 1, 2005

   

Hamburger Helper

    John Curtas has a hankering for a hunk of chopped beef on a bun.

Nov 24, 2005

   

Grandma Schroader's Sour Beans

    John Curtas recommends a family recipe that fits nicely with any Thanksgiving dinner.

Nov 17, 2005

   

Bartolotta

    John Curtas catches the seafood he loves because Paul Bartolotta celebrates seafood with a 'less is more' approach.

Nov 10, 2005

   

Ten Years Ago

    After 10 years sharing his views on Las Vegas restaurants with KNPR listeners, John Curtas finds he has to defend New York City restaurants.

Nov 3, 2005

   

Going Native at El Sombrero

    Despite visiting a downtown Mexican restaurant for many years, John Curtas still struggles with asking for his meal 'in just the right way'.

Oct 13, 2005

   

Opa

    John Curtas is off the strip and on a roll with a new Greek eatery.

Sep 29, 2005

   

L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon

    John Curtas has been stationed at the MGM enjoying both new restaurants from the chef described as 'the best of the century'. But wait, there could be a flaw.

Sep 22, 2005

   

Joël Robuchon

    John Curtas says that in one fell swoop and with two gorgeous restaurants, the MGM and Joël Robuchon have turned Las Vegas into a serious destination for serious gourmets.

Sep 15, 2005

   

Kraving Krispy Kreme

    Sometimes John Curtas feels entitled to gorge himself on something delicious that he ordinarily shies away from...such as Krispy Kreme doughnuts.

Sep 8, 2005

   

Antoine's 1840-2005(?)

    The bad news from New Orleans rekindles fond memories of a food epiphany at Antoine's for John Curtas.

Sep 1, 2005

   

Divine Design

    At the Country Club Grill at Wynn Las Vegas, you have a chef and a designer whistling the same tune, and it is a thing to behold. John Curtas finds the food and the design, divine.

Aug 25, 2005

   

Hedary's Mediterranean Restaurant

    They call it a Mediterranean restaurant, but John Curtas says it's really a Lebanese restaurant, and a very good one at that.

Aug 18, 2005

   

A Critique of Pure Riesling

    John Curtas gets philosophical with a critique of Pure Riesling.

Aug 4, 2005

   

Samosa Factory

    Following up on last week's high quality, off-strip ethnic dining experience, commentator John Curtas samples Indian cuisine on Sahara.

Jul 28, 2005

   

Fat Food

    John Curtas details a fast food intervention with an acquaintance, but finds he needs a fake private eye to do it.

Jul 21, 2005

   

Swish

    John Curtas has another undiscovered, off-strip treasure, and all you have to do is 'just add water'.

Jul 7, 2005

   

Samosa Factory

    Following up on last week's high quality, off-strip ethnic dining experience, commentator John Curtas samples Indian cuisine on Sahara.

Jun 30, 2005

   

Opa

    John Curtas is off the strip and on a roll with a new Greek eatery.

Jun 23, 2005

   

Boulud Brasserie

    John Curtas finds that good eating is in the details at this fine restaurant at Wynn Las Vegas.

Jun 16, 2005

   

Liquid Salad - Caprese

    John Curtas finds a new take on fast food...combining your cocktail and appetizer.

Jun 2, 2005

   

Trendy Drinking

    John Curtas navigates the velvet ropes at trendy drinking spots and ends up resigning his place on the VIP list at some of Las Vegas' nightlife hotspots.

May 26, 2005

   

Sirio

    Le Cirque and Circo continue as two family-run and prestigious restaurants in Las Vegas. John Curtas has been reading about the family in a new biography.

May 19, 2005

   

You Wynn

    Our newest casino resort features several high-end restaurants that immediately attracted the attention of John Curtas.

May 12, 2005

   

Cost Comparison

    John Curtas says classy restaurants are more expensive in Las Vegas than in New York...and travels across the country to prove it.

May 5, 2005

   

My Mom

    ...The world's not so greatest cook. An audio Mothers Day card from commentator John Curtas.

Apr 14, 2005

   

John Mariani

    John Curtas takes well-known food critic John Mariani on a tour of some of the best restaurants in Las Vegas.

Apr 7, 2005

   

RM Seafood

    John Curtas finds good food but spotty service at this classy seafood emporium at Mandalay Place.

Mar 31, 2005

   

Hits and Misses

    Upscale or downscale, John Curtas has some hits and misses.

Mar 24, 2005

   

Mix

    Disguise and deception don't work as John Curtas is uncovered at Mix.

Mar 17, 2005

   

All Mix'd Up

    John Curtas is saving the food for next time. Today, just the decor of this restaurant deserves a review.

Mar 10, 2005

   

Ferraro's Italian Restaurant

    The more things change the more they stay the same...and that's a good thing when it comes to a local favorite according to John Curtas.

Mar 3, 2005

   

The Best of Times

    John Curtas challenges himself to stay ahead of the next wave in Las Vegas dining.

Feb 17, 2005

   

Euro Trip

    John Curtas is back from an international culinary adventure and provides this report.

Feb 10, 2005

   

Ode to a Croissant

    We call them 'crescent rolls', but that's an injustice to the rapture John Curtas enjoyed eating pastry in Paris.

Feb 3, 2005

   

Best of Baloney

    Food critic John Curtas has had it with awards and best-of lists.

Jan 29, 2005

   

More Major Awards

    John Curtas offers his annual 'best of' list.

Jan 27, 2005

   

Academy of the Overrated

    John Curtas explores all things overrated on the culinary stage.

Jan 6, 2005

   

The Bottom 10

    John Curtas picks his worst of 2004.

Dec 30, 2004

   

You're Toast

    Millions of toasts will be made to the new year. John Curtas has some alternatives to the traditional 'cheers'.

Dec 23, 2004

   

Best Restaurant

    John Curtas picks Postrio as as Restaurant Of The Year for 2004.

Dec 16, 2004

   

Good Eats 2004

    John Curtas hones in on some specific dishes worth praise in the past year.

Dec 9, 2004

   

Best New Restaurants

    John Curtas begins his end of the year round up with some top picks for eating, ambience and people watching.

Dec 2, 2004

   

Fleur de Lys

    John Curtas explains why a high end restaurant with a major price tag is a great bargain.

Nov 18, 2004

   

Mesa Grill

    Despite repeated visits, John Curtas finds little to like about this restaurant at Caesars.

Nov 11, 2004

   

A Tale of Two Tapas

    John Curtas says Cafe Ba Ba Reeba is waaay ahead of other tapas bars in Las Vegas.

Nov 4, 2004

   

Barbecue Bonanza 2

    While John Curtas comments on food and dining each week he's equally at home in a fancy place on the strip, or a Barbeque joint.

Oct 28, 2004

   

Barbecue Bonanza

    It's a BBQ Bonanza in the Valley according to John Curtas.

Oct 7, 2004

   

Hue Thai's Famous French Sandwiches

    'High flavored Eurasian cuisine' leaves John Curtas with a case of fusion confusion.

Sep 30, 2004

   

Eight Years Later...

    It wasn't so long ago that Las Vegas dining was most notable for 99-cent shrimp cocktails. John Curtas uses the 8th anniversary of his regular commentary spot to review what's happened since.

Sep 23, 2004

   

Staking Out Some Steaks

    John Curtas notes that America's love affair with meat won't end any time soon.

Sep 16, 2004

   

Fun with Fat

    Some Studies suggest that fat might be good for you. John Curtas wades through the reseach.

Sep 9, 2004

   

BI-BIM-BOPPIN' ALONG...at the TOFU HUT

    John Curtas uses ToFu as an organizing principal of his love life.

Sep 2, 2004

   

Mezcal Muchacho

    A five dollar lunch is just the start of John Curtas's food explorations this week.

Aug 26, 2004

   

New(?) Restaurant

     In these dog days of Summer, if you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen. John Curtas explains one restaurant's effort to stay cool.

Aug 19, 2004

   

Julia Child

    John Curtas says goodbye to the woman who taught him, and so many more, to cook.

Aug 12, 2004

   

Dining Etiquette

    John Curtas has some strong opinions on eating and dining etiquette.

Aug 5, 2004

   

Valentino

    Whatever your price range, Valentino now provides a taste of authentic Italy.

Jul 29, 2004

   

Stale Menus

    Las Vegas may be one of the world's greatest dining destinations, but John Curtas thinks some of our world famous eateries have gone stale.

Jul 22, 2004

   

Amba

    John samples and devours exotic dishes at The Pita Place.

Jul 1, 2004

   

Aqua vs Aqua

    John Curtas tests his own theories with a side by side taste test at Aqua-San Francisco and Aqua-Las Vegas.

Jun 24, 2004

   

Foodie or Chowhound?

    Find out just what kind of gourmet you may, or may not be.

Jun 17, 2004

   

Lessons from Dad

    Like Father like son. John Curtas has this tribute to lessons learned from a food-loving father.

Jun 10, 2004

   

Simply Offal

    'Offal' has long been a part of classic European cuisine. John Curtas alerts us to it's newfound status in the U-S.

Jun 3, 2004

   

The King has No Clothes

    John Curtas contemplates criticism that Las Vegas restaurants with 'big name' chefs, don't offer the best food.

May 27, 2004

   

Fine Wine 2004

    Las Vegas is #1 when it comes to money spent on wine. John Curtas offers these thoughts.

May 20, 2004

   

John's Top Two

    You could spend $100 a person, or $38 for two...either way, John Curtas says two great meals await at constrasting Las Vegas restaurants.

May 13, 2004

   

Italian Food In Henderson

    There's plenty of choice when it comes to eating Italian food in the Valley, but all Italian is not 'all good' according to John Curtas.

May 6, 2004

   

Makino Sushi

    No buffets for John Curtas...unless it's a sushi buffet. And he found a good one near downtown Las Vegas.

Apr 22, 2004

   

Mealtime Malaise

    John Curtas has the kind of boredom only fine-dining can induce.

Apr 8, 2004

   

Copy of a Copy

    When is a restaurant about money and when is it about passion?

Mar 18, 2004

   

Bouchon Bistro

    Another celebrity chef opens a restaurant at the Venetian, and John Curtas has already worked his way through the menu.

Mar 11, 2004

   

Italy

    When in Rome...eat like a Roman!

Mar 4, 2004

   

Nora's

    John goes in search of Italian food before heading for Italy.

Feb 26, 2004

   

The Book of Ruth's Chris

    John Curtas recounts the ancient history of Las Vegas dining.

Feb 19, 2004

   

Mistakes, I've Made a Few

    Math is not John's strength, but he knows where to find good wine.

Feb 12, 2004

   

Wine $$$

    Is expensive wine really worth the big bucks?

Feb 5, 2004

   

Wine Snob

    He's a self confessed wine-snob, but in his defense, John Curtas does question whether it's all worth it.

Jan 29, 2004

   

A Gourmet Birthday

    For a birthday or any special occasion, John Curtas has an idea for a perfect, special gourmet treat.

Jan 22, 2004

   

Restaurant Success

    What's the key to restaurant success? John Curtas says it starts a long way from the kitchen.

Jan 15, 2004

   

Mad Cow

    Like many people, John Curtas is mad about mad cow disease.

Jan 1, 2004

   

Hopes for 2004

    High prices, fast food and slow service. John Curtas hopes that the new year is a new start for local dining.

Dec 25, 2003

   

Holiday Review

    John Curtas reveals who's been naughty and who's been nice to his tastebuds.

Dec 18, 2003

   

Tips on Tipping

    John Curtas uses his legal expertise to explain the nuances of tipping.

Dec 11, 2003

   

Holiday Foods

    John Curtas recommends a source for holiday foods.

Dec 4, 2003

   

Trendy Restaurants?

    John Curtas wonders why our most popular restaurants are often the least interesting.

Nov 27, 2003

   

Grandma Schroader's Sour Beans

    John Curtas says 'move over Susan Stamberg' and offers his own Thanksgiving recipe.

Nov 20, 2003

   

Fast Food Nation

    John Curtas decided to catch up on some food-related reading...and then lost his apetite.

Nov 13, 2003

   

Marc's World Cuisine

    John Curtas finds that political columnist John L. Smith has a nose for good eatin'.

Nov 6, 2003

   

Tre

    John Curtas champions fine dining suceeding off the strip.

Oct 16, 2003

   

Whole Foods

    A whole lot of people are flocking to the new whole foods store on West Charleston. But John Curtas is not one of them.

Oct 9, 2003

   

Heavenly Hotdogs

    Following a devine breakfast at the Ritz, John finds a heavenly lunch.

Sep 25, 2003

   

Tips on Tipping

    John Curtas uses his legal expertise to explain the nuances of tipping.

Sep 18, 2003

   

Lotus of Siam

    John Curtas visits a first class Thai restaurant in a less than first class location.

Sep 11, 2003

   

Marche Bacchus

    Refuse to go near The Strip? This is one of best restaurants you'll find off The Strip.

Sep 4, 2003

   

Delicious Summer

    John Curtas says a gourmet goodbye to a long hot summer.

Aug 28, 2003

   

9

    Is John Curtas hip enough for the steak house at the Palms? Are YOU?

Aug 14, 2003

   

Moon Over Mihami

    Seem like menus are getting more and more descriptive? John Curtas wades through the adjectives.

Aug 7, 2003

   

Gay Wine?

    A new wine produced by gay winemakers has John Curtas thinking how can a vineyard be 'gay', and what are the implications if you don't like it?

Jul 24, 2003

   

Bradley Ogden

    Expensive, yes. But John Curtas says this is one of the best upscale restaurants in Las Vegas.

Jul 17, 2003

   

Hot Weather Food

    John Curtas finds that when the going gets tough the heat weary go to...

Jul 10, 2003

   

Walk on the Wild Side

    A bad concert is made no better by an overpriced sushi dinner at the Hard Rock.

Jul 3, 2003

   

Bill Fong

    John Curtas salutes the end of a long-time downtown tradition.

Jun 26, 2003

   

The Perfect Hamburger

    John Curtas travels to the Skyline in Henderson and finds the perfect hamburger for less than $10.

Jun 19, 2003

   

Men Eat Meat

    John Curtas says real men eat real, red meat, and Las Vegas has plenty of accommodating restaurants.

Jun 12, 2003

   

Eating Habits

    Why do men and women have such different eating habits? John Curtas is not an anthropologist, but he plays one on the radio.

Jun 5, 2003

   

Felipito's

    'Low on ambience' translates into high taste for John Curtas as he hits the streets for cheap eats.

May 29, 2003

   

Mariposa Revisited

    Jacques is gone, but John Curtas still finds great food at the Fashion Show Mall in Neiman Marcus.

May 22, 2003

   

Bradley Ogden

    Expensive, yes. But John Curtas says this is one of the best upscale restaurants in Las Vegas.

May 15, 2003

   

Sushi Tostada?

    John Curtas is almost speechless over the fusion confusion at some local Asian restaurants.

May 8, 2003

   

Asian Spring

    A street of culinary dreams.

May 1, 2003

   

Panning Panevino

    Try and try again...still John couldn't find much to like at Panevino.

Apr 24, 2003

   

Heavenly Hotdogs

    Following a devine breakfast at the Ritz, John finds a heavenly lunch.

Apr 17, 2003

   

Henderson Hot Spots

    John Curtas is putting on the Ritz...in Henderson.

Mar 13, 2003

   

Mariposa

    John Curtas re-discovers a chef he last encountered at the Aladdin.

Mar 6, 2003

   

Casualty of Wine War

    While some Americans protest France's stance on Iraq, John Curtas tells us about a casualty of France's entrenched seriousness about food.

Feb 27, 2003

   

9

    Is John Curtas hip enough for the steak house at the Palms? Are YOU?

Feb 20, 2003

   

How Do You Pronounce 'Pho So Mo'?

    Don't be intimidated by the menus at exotic restaurants. John Curtas provides a guided tour (with translations) of one his favorite Far Eastern hang outs.

Feb 13, 2003

   

Mediterranean Cafe

    From Terrible to Terrific - five years later John finds a lot to like.

Feb 6, 2003

   

Bleu Blanc Rouge

    John Curtas is pleased with what he found at this new French bistro at Mandalay Bay.

Jan 30, 2003

   

Elizabeth Blau

    According to John Curtas, among the beautiful people at the Hard Rock is a brilliant restaurant consultant.

Jan 23, 2003

   

Heidi Who?

    John Curtas turns up the heat on a local restaurant reviewer.

Jan 16, 2003

   

The Real Dinner with Max

    Last week John Curtas invited food writer Max Jacobson to talk about dining in Las Vegas. This week we rejoin them at the table for talk about the food at the new restaurant Tre.

Jan 9, 2003

   

My Dinner with Max

    Worst dining experiences, rage against raw beans and best Asian places to eat. All discussed as John Curtas sits down with fellow food critic Max Jacobson.

Jan 2, 2003

   

Hangover Cures

    John Curtas speaks from experience when he usggest how to deal with the morning after.

Dec 26, 2002

   

Hard Rock

    Hot tomatoes can't distract John Curtas from finding good food at the Hard Rock.

Dec 19, 2002

   

Village Meat & Wine

    Whatever food you associate with the holidays, John Curtas has a place to find it.

Dec 12, 2002

   

Art of Eating

    John Curtas makes time to read about food, and comes up with his ideal gift for the gourmet.

Dec 5, 2002

   

The Saloon

    John's discovered a great place to eat and drink on Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas.

Nov 28, 2002

   

Thanks

    

Nov 21, 2002

   

Craftsteak

    Cost or no cost....Craftsteak is a restaurant that even a vegetarian can love.

Nov 14, 2002

   

Cafe Wasabi

    John Curtas reviews a new sushi restaurant and finds great food on west Sahara.

Nov 7, 2002

   

Campaign Cuisine

    Undaunted in defeat, former judicial candidate John Curtas returns.

Aug 14, 2002

   

Moon Over Mihami

    Seem like menus are getting more and more descriptive? John Curtas wades through the adjectives.

May 16, 2002

   

Aureole

    It's a huge restaurant with a 42 foot ceiling and a wine rack to match. The food looks great and tastes good, too.

May 9, 2002

   

How Do You Pronounce 'Pho So Mo'?

    Don't be intimidated by the menus at exotic restaurants. John Curtas provides a guided tour (with translations) of one his favorite Far Eastern hang outs.

May 2, 2002

   

Wine Snobbery

    If you like wine but have trouble getting the hang of being a real wine snob, listen for a lesson from a premiere snob, John Curtas!

Apr 25, 2002

   

Ode to a Frozen Mocha Java/Coffee Pub

    The invasion of the franchise coffee clones and how they can't compare to locally brewed excellence.

Apr 18, 2002

   

My Almost Dinner With Andre

    John "I've been thrown out of better places than this" Curtas risks public humiliation to cover the culinary scene in Las Vegas.

Apr 11, 2002

   

Prime Infidelity

    The saucy adventures of the unfaithful food critic.

Apr 4, 2002

   

Marche Bacchus

    It's the best of french wine and bistro classics at an off-the-strip restaurant.

Mar 28, 2002

   

Fat Hits the Fire

    John Curtas rants over a culinary lawsuit when McDonalds admits using beef products when cooking its french fries.

Mar 21, 2002

   

Mediterranean Cafe

    From Terrible to Terrific - five years later John finds a lot to like.

Mar 14, 2002

   

Gourmet Buffet

    Quantity and quality co-exist at the Bellagio buffet.

Mar 7, 2002

   

Riddle Me This

    Solve the riddle and John will tell you where to find culinary delights.

Feb 28, 2002

   

Top Ten Locals

    John Curtas lists his Top 10 neighborhood restaurants.

Feb 21, 2002

   

Nob Hill

    John Curtas says the bread is great, but the meal goes downhill from there.

Feb 14, 2002

   

Piero's Trattoria

    When the food is bad and the prices are high, the consumer advocate in John Curtas has no problem telling us all about it.

Feb 7, 2002

   

Super Patriotism

    Is eating chips and drinking beer patriotic? John Curtas wonders at the elevation of consumer culture at the Superbowl.

Jan 31, 2002

   

Grow No More

    John Curtas warns restauranteurs that the quickest way to hurt their business may be to expand.

Jan 24, 2002

   

Sushi

    John Curtas extols the virtues of walking to dinner and finding good sushi in an unlikely place.

Jan 17, 2002

   

Picasso at the Bellagio

    John Curtas splurges on Picasso and finds the combination of a celebrity chef and Las Vegas results in masterful food.

Jan 10, 2002

   

Bergin's

    John Curtas says you can order just about anything at Bergin's Cafe and Pastry Shop, and love it.

Jan 3, 2002

   

Chef Gustav Mauler

    John Curtas hopes that a chef with the same name as a classical composer will continue his impressive track record of conducting fine dining in Las Vegas, and bring some classic cuisine to Green Valley.

Dec 27, 2001

   

Best and Worst

    Not one to worry about what advertisers might think - John Curtas offers his 'best and worst' of 2001, along with a salute to a fallen comrade..

Dec 20, 2001

   

Food for Business Travelers

    Traveling Man, John Curtas says there is a good reason why business travelers aren't smiling...

Dec 13, 2001

   

Naughty or Nice

    Little Johnny Curtas talks with Santa about the good and bad from the past year.

Nov 29, 2001

   

Thanks for the Food

    John Curtas says thanks for the surprisingly good food on west Sahara and Charleston.

Nov 22, 2001

   

Eliseevsky

    John Curtas takes a liking to this Russian/European restaurant.

Nov 15, 2001

   

India Oven

    So good, John Curtas almost forgot to tell us about it.

Nov 8, 2001

   

Leo's Celebrity Deli

    John Curtas defines the perfect Jewish deli.

Nov 1, 2001

   

Fine Wine

    John Curtas indulges in the proliferation of fine wine in Las Vegas.

Oct 25, 2001

   

The Strip Sandwich Shop

    John Curtas hangs out with the guys at a great sandwich shop.

Oct 18, 2001

   

Circo

    People-watching at Circo in the Bellagio.

Oct 11, 2001

   

Tea Planet

    

Oct 4, 2001

   

Abacus Chinese Restaurant part 2

    John Curtas returns to his date at Abacus.

Sep 27, 2001

   

Food for Survival

    John Curtas explains why we dine.

Sep 6, 2001

   

Abacus Chinese Restaurant

    

Aug 30, 2001

   

Lotus of Siam

    

Aug 23, 2001

   

Aureole

    

Aug 16, 2001

   

French Cafe'

    

Aug 9, 2001

   

Small but Mighty

    

Aug 2, 2001

   

Downtown

    

Jul 26, 2001

   

Mexican Delights

    

Jul 19, 2001

   

Rocco

    

Jul 12, 2001

   

Charlie Palmer's Steak

    

Jul 5, 2001

   

The Iron Chef

    

Jun 21, 2001

   

Nozomi

    

Jun 14, 2001

   

French food and wine

    

May 31, 2001

   

American vs French

    

May 24, 2001

   

Review of the Reviewers

    

May 17, 2001

   

La Scala

    

May 10, 2001

   

Chinois

    

May 3, 2001

   

Baaad Puns

    

Apr 26, 2001

   

STEAK

    

Apr 19, 2001

   

No More Caviar!

    

Apr 12, 2001

   

Luv-It Custard

    

Apr 5, 2001

   

Wine Snobs

    

Mar 29, 2001

   

Tribute to Enzino Secci

    

Mar 22, 2001

   

Wine Geeks

    

Mar 15, 2001

   

Valentino

    

Mar 8, 2001

   

Tres Jazz

    

Mar 1, 2001

   

Commander's Palace

    

Feb 22, 2001

   

3950

    

Feb 15, 2001

   

Le Cirque

    

Feb 8, 2001

   

Romantic Dishes

    

Feb 1, 2001

   

Restaurant Awards

    

Jan 25, 2001

   

Austin's - The Hush Puppy

    

Jan 18, 2001

   

The Pita Place and The Red Apple Grill

    

Jan 11, 2001

   

Too Hip for John

    

Jan 4, 2001

   

The Iron Chef

    

Dec 28, 2000

   

Top Five

    

Dec 21, 2000

   

Santa & Friends

    

Dec 14, 2000

   

Santa Says You've Been Naughty

    

Dec 7, 2000

   

Commander's Palace

    

Nov 23, 2000

   

Sushi Fever

    

Nov 2, 2000

   

The Pink Taco

    

Oct 26, 2000

   

Simply Southern Cafe'

    

Oct 19, 2000

   

Healthy Yoga?

    

Oct 12, 2000

   

No More Caviar!

    

Oct 5, 2000

   

Marathon stops at

    

Sep 28, 2000

   

The Marathon Begins...

    

Sep 21, 2000

   

Restaurant Marathon

    

Sep 14, 2000

   

McCormick & Schmick

    

Sep 7, 2000

   

Koreana

    

Aug 31, 2000

   

Taking Care of Business

    

Aug 24, 2000

   

Swiss Cafe'

    

Aug 17, 2000

   

Lotus of Siam

    

Aug 10, 2000

   

Nobu

    

Aug 3, 2000

   

McDonald's

    

Jul 20, 2000

   

Rosemary's

    

Jul 13, 2000

   

Salvadoreno

    

Jul 6, 2000

   

Texas BBQ

    

Jun 29, 2000

   

Billy Bob Briggs

    

Jun 22, 2000

   

Rincon de Buenos Aires

    

Jun 15, 2000

   

french pastries

    

Jun 8, 2000

   

The Pasta Shop

    

Jun 1, 2000