Tammy Collins

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EASY EATS
A Taste of What's Nearby

Price ratings are based on  the review's check, minus tip, for two people. The system is meant to represent a guideline and totals are approximate.
$ = up to $20; $$ = $40; $$$ = $60.

North to Italia ... Well Worth the Wait
$$$

Bombolini or Italian doughnuts are puff pastry filled with Meyer lemon curd and vanilla mascarpone.

Don’t you just love it when a new eatery opens nearby, and it is good? Recently, on one of our fantastic Las Vegas afternoons, we went for a late lunch or early dinner (whatever) at North Italia. Our timing coincided with happy hour.
It was early into the happy hour specials, and most of the patio tables were occupied with sippers and diners having a great time. North Italia’s patio is really a great place for an afternoon gathering; no sun, but open and airy, yet the seating is cozy — not stark.  These patio tables go fast, so if you plan to meet friends for a drink and some small plates, go early or determine if you might reserve a space.
We began with drinks and an appetizer, maybe to prolong our enjoyment of the pleasant patio atmosphere. Since this is Northern Italian cuisine, many of the dishes did not feature tomato-based sauce, but more creamy renditions. Fine by me, but my better half is a Ragu man. We both ordered pasta dishes. Loved mine — a short rib and pasta combination. The “Ragu guy” pronounced his chicken pasta dish OK, but since nary a tomato could be found in the sauce, next time he is opting for another entrée.
Now, for the real reason I will return again and again — bombolini or Italian donuts served with Meyer lemon curd and vanilla mascarpone. Those little puffs of pastry were heavenly. Next visit I may go directly to dessert and coffee.
North Italia’s website (northitaliarestaurant.com) lists prices. Love that! So when you see the $$$$ designation for our visit to this restaurant, let me say we went “whole hog” from drinks, appetizer, entrees, desserts and coffees. Groups could have fantastic happy hours very reasonably. Also, the happy hour Chef’s Board for $10 appeared to be very popular with groups seated around us.
North Italia, 1069 S. Rampart Blvd., is located in Rampart Commons (better known as the shopping area on the northwest corner of Rampart and Charleston — just behind P. F. Chang’s).  North Italia also has a rewards program — often a money-saver and a head’s up on specials.  Salute. 

This (Black) Bear Can Cook
$$

A few weeks ago we received a postcard offering a 25 percent discount at the newly opened Black Bear Diner location on the southeast corner of Sahara Avenue and Durango Drive next to the Smith’s grocery story. Didn’t make the deal, but did check the menu online and it was filled with comfort food. The offerings appeared tempting.
Must say the older I get, the more I like to be able to identify my food. And comfort food from my youth really appeals.  The word “fusion,” for me, is not at all a selling point anymore.
Went very early on a recent afternoon, just after 4 p.m., when the dinner menu was in effect. My significant other ordered a Ruben with fries. He was very pleased with his selection. I opted for the fried chicken breast served with smashed re- skin potatoes, country gravy, green beans (like my grandma used to make) and a fresh house salad. A real bonus was the large corn meal muffin. The bear can cook!
This is definitely a family restaurant with no bar or slots. The décor features bears at every turn. So the theme is everywhere. One can even order a huge bear claw to eat in or take out. We brought one home. So good.
The service was as good as it gets — attentive without being so chummy you think you have a new best friend. And the food arrived hot — something that is a rarity these days.
Black Bear Diner serves breakfast, lunch and dinner—with breakfast all day long. Have checked the menu online and it looks to be a great breakfast place with all the favorites.
I already mentioned the bear claw we brought home, but the dessert display near the front cashier was amazing. So, if you plan for dessert, get a take-home box for your entrée when ordering. The servings are ample.
Hope to get there for breakfast soon.
Black Bear Diner, 8565 W. Sahara Ave., 770-3706. Hours of operation are daily, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The bear claw pastry is a sure-fire favorite.

Mr. Mamas Fills the Bill for a Great Breakfast
$

I was tipped off by a friend and reader of this column that Mr. Mamas Restaurant, 5693 S. Jones Blvd., Suite 106 (on the northwest corner of Russell Road and Jones Boulevard), served a wonderful Greek omelet. We decided to give the place a try, and we are so glad we did.
Mr. Mamas is not as nearby as most of the places I review. However, it is just a small detour from Interstate 215 when going to and from McCarran International Airport. Our friend looks forward to these frequent trips to the airport to pick up and drop off relatives and friends by including a stop at Mr. Mamas for the Greek omelet. 
Mid-morning, mid-week shouldn’t be a busy time for a neighborhood breakfast/lunch place, right? Wrong. We began to feel something was very special about Mr. Mamas as we searched for a parking place. The lot in the small strip mall was nearly full. As we approached the entrance we noticed people waiting outside. We gave the person in charge our name and, after a 20-minute wait, were seated.
Immediately, our waitperson was at our table to take our drink order. The service at Mr. Mamas is quick and efficient.  I ordered the Greek omelet (so highly recommended by our friend). My better half ordered the meat and cheese omelet. We both ordered the home fries, but I added onions and peppers to my potatoes.
Soon we both had beautiful fluffy omelets and potatoes along with toast and jam. My Greek omelet was fabulous. But garlic haters, be warned: The Greek omelet is loaded with garlic. I happen to love the stuff, so was more than pleased. Also, I won’t have to worry about vampires for quite a while. Just kidding. My husband enjoyed his omelet also. However, my potatoes with peppers and onions almost out-shown the omelet. Coffee refills were anticipated and often. 
Mr. Mamas is a no-frills breakfast and lunch eatery. Judging by our fellow diners and our own experience, the food is the attraction. So, if you find yourself not looking forward to that airport trip, treat yourself with a stop at Mr. Mamas. Be warned, you might have a bit of a wait, as “The word is out” that Mr. Mamas is a great place for breakfast. Mr. Mamas also serves lunch. But I would still go for the Greek omelet.
If, like the abovementioned reader, you have a favorite dining spot, email me at link@suncitylv.com. Please put Easy Eats in the subject line.

Sammy's Pizza, Messy Sundae a Heavenly Combination
$$

For many of us Sun City Summerlin old-timers, there were very few nearby eateries when we first came here to live. In those days of yore, we had to travel a bit to reach a place to eat out. Some of the truly early settlers will remember Beano’s Casino on Lake Mead Boulevards (now a PT’s) as the only place for miles. 
Thank goodness all that has changed, and we have near dining options galore. But every once in a while, seemingly forgotten restaurants from the past come to mind. It was such with us, when on a recent Saturday evening we found ourselves in the area of one of our long time favorites — Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza on Sahara Avenue.
We were fortunate as we arrived before the evening dinner rush and were seated ever so promptly. The food was as good as we remembered, but it was the service that really impressed us. Our waitperson was at our booth almost before we were settled.  Sammy’s is one of those places that knows how to get food out. Rather than waiting for one’s own waitperson to deliver, often cooling, food, when items are ready, there is a group who immediately brings food to the tables. Thus it was with our meal. Our pizzas arrived straight from the oven.
We split a small Caesar salad — actually quite large. Sammy’s Caesar is one of our favorites — we can taste the anchovies in the dressing. Yes, we both like anchovies, would you believe? It was as good as we remembered. We both like different pizzas, and my better half chose an all-cheese pizza, while I went for the Thai chicken pizza.  Both were so good — even as re-heated leftovers a day later.
Guess it was that goofy Saturday night feeling that had us saying, “Yes” when our waitress asked, “And for desert would you like a messy sundae?” It had been at least a decade since we had a Sammy’s messy sundae. This concoction is a chocolate/caramel sundae complete with walnuts, whipped cream and a cherry on top.  But it is messy because all of the sauces are on the outside of the sundae dish, spilling onto a plate that holds the sundae dish. What sinful indulgence. Be sure to ask for multiple spoons, as this dessert is huge, in addition to being messy.
Sammy’s has several locations in the Las Vegas area. Google them to get more information.
We found the Sammy’s Sahara location as we fondly remembered it. So, if you find yourself near a Sammy’s location you might want to stop in for what appeared to be a great happy hour menu or a meal. Don’t forget the messy sundae, which would be really fun for visiting grandchildren.         

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'Sit, Get Comfy & Stay A While' at Lazy Dog

Lazy Dog's poutine puts a twist on the Canadian favorite.

Let it be known I am a dog lover. I do not dislike cats, but much prefer the company of a slobbering, panting canine. So, for such a long time, I have wanted to visit Lazy Dog in Downtown Summerlin. And, with the arrival of the long-awaited arrival of Crate and Barrel just next door, I finally made it there. 
The dog-friendly patio was truly busy on the cool day we visited. Too cool for us to dine al fresco, so we opted to eat indoors. I had a good view of the dogs and their owners. What fun. So, if your dog is well-behaved, I recommend you and your furry friend give Lazy Dog a try.
Our lunch was most enjoyable — the food was tasty; the service well-paced, and the lunch crowd large and seemingly happy. On my food bucket list has been poutine — that Canadian contribution to the culinary world that consists of French-fried potatoes, cheese curd and gravy. Lazy Dog’s version had some additions, namely fried onion rings, beef brisket — you get the idea. Think loaded nachos with a French Canadian twist. It was good, but a bit overwhelming. So, if you want to try it, I suggest you bring along someone with whom to share this experience. My better half had a grilled cheese and “really good” French fries. 
It is a fun place and one where I can get my dog fix without any of a pet owner’s responsibilities.
Lazy Dog is located in Downtown Summerlin at 1725 Festival Drive; 702-727-4784. A Dog Menu lists doggie rules for dining with your pooch. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to midnight, Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to midnight, Saturday; and 9 a.m. to midnight, Sunday.
There are some other dog- friendly patios in the area you and your furry friend might like to check out. A longtime favorite of many is the Starbucks’ patio at Village Center Circle. This area extends to the front of Einstein’s Bagels. Rachel’s on the corner of Trailwood Drive and Spring Gate Lane also welcomes dogs in the small seating area at the front of the restaurant and the patio in back of the establishment. And Egg Works (just across the street from Fabulous Freddie’s in the same area), also has a patio that is canine friendly. I am sure there are other dog-friendly patios, but those mentioned above have long welcomed dogs and Lazy Dog, Rachel’s and Egg Works seem to have fences and gates that offer a bit of safety and containment.   

Hamptons Offers More Than a Dining Experience

Unlike George Costanza, our trip to the Hamptons was not at all the misadventure he experienced with the parents of his deceased fiancée Susan. This introduction is for all “Seinfeld” fans.
Hamptons, the restaurant, had us back at Tivoli Village again this month. Tivoli keeps re-inventing itself with fantastic dining spots, and the recently opened Hamptons did not disappoint.
Our visit to the Tivoli Hamptons had a dual purpose – to check the place out and to entertain out-of-town guests. We had a very early reservation and arrived during a time when only the happy hour menu was available. The appetizers for which we opted to go with our drinks were on both the happy hour and main menus. Encouraged by our waitperson, we ordered the avocado fries and buffalo onion rings. Both were so different and so delicious. Avocado fries are deep-fried slices of avocado served with two sauces. The slices of avocado were lightly breaded and not at all greasy. The buffalo onion rings were huge rings of deep-fried sweet onion with a nice but not overly spicy buffalo sauce, as well as a dip of blue cheese dressing.
Our waitperson fudged the time, so we ordered our dinner a few minutes early. The guys ordered burgers and were pleased; my female guest had green chili pork stew, which she pronounced, “delicious.” I had a wonderful crispy chicken sandwich. We three who ordered the sandwiches had BBQ fries. The fries truly out-shown our sandwiches.  So, if you visit the Hamptons, be sure you get an order of those fries.
The décor at Hamptons is very pleasing – neutral colors — and classy. They lend a feel that one is dining, not just eating. Monday evening is not a time when many eat out, but there were several diners and many at the bar taking advantage of happy hour, while we were there.
Hamptons is located across from the main valet station at Tivoli Village, just off Alta Drive between a bridal shop and Leticia’s — the new Mexican restaurant that replaced Cantina Laredo.
Hours of operation are user friendly, leading off with the daily happy hour, 3 to 6 p.m.  Saturday and Sunday brunch hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hamptons is open throughout the week, Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
 
P.S. Remember, I don’t cook for guests – want to enjoy my time with them so we go out. For breakfast the following day we went to Tavern at the Falls. All four of us ordered the Eagle. Food, service and view had our company from Sun City West, Ariz., wishing they had such a venue in their Sun City. After the fantastic meal, the golfer in our group checked out the pro shop at “The 2017 Best Golf Course in Las Vegas.” Yep, that’s our Sun City Summerlin!

Canter's Deli Open for Business at Tivoli Village

After what seemed to be a never-ending wait, Canter’s Deli-Las Vegas has opened at Tivoli Village. Yes, my last review was the Waffle Bar at Tivoli; that commercial center on the northeast corner of Rampart Boulevard and Alta Drive is jam-packed with wonderful dining options. Canter’s just adds to the mix.
We went on the day of the grand opening. We lucked out and got a booth immediately. We arrived mid-morning, but when we left, we noted a line waiting for available tables, as well as a long line at the carry-out station. Nary a first-day glitch was noted. All servers and their assistants seemed to have their areas of responsibility down pat.
There were a few menu supplies that had not arrived, but our server suggested alternatives that more than satisfied. My Nova lox and onion omelet was made with smoked salmon instead of the lox. It was delicious. We were offered fresh fruit as one of the sides and we both chose it. My better half had corned beef with his eggs and was delighted with his choice. We both got bagels with ample cream cheese.
The prices are reasonable and comparable to surrounding establishments. The décor is clean and utilitarian. The service was outstanding. 
In glancing at the lunch and dinner menus, we both chose something we wanted to try on our next visit — me, a chopped liver sandwich (yes, I said liver. I am one of the few liver lovers.) And live-in can’t wait to try the awesome Reuben.
Canter’s also lists itself as a bakery. Just looking at the available desserts and sweets is sure to add to one’s daily intake of calories, Alas!
Canter’s at Tivoli opens at 6:30 a.m and closes at 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The restaurant is located just a bit north of Charming Charlie. Every Sun City Summerlin gal knows Charming Charlie right? 
At the time of this writing, the website listed only lunch and dinner options. I hope the breakfast options will be added soon.

Waffle Bar at Tivoli Village

At our house, waffles are a special event.  First, the batter is mixed and then into the waffle iron.  Next step is to enjoy those crispy treats — topped with whatever.  But the cleanup is not quite so much fun.
The Waffle Bar at Tivoli Village provides all the enjoyment without  the preparation and dreaded cleanup.  This establishment also offers a breakfast option  that was much needed.  It also has waffles for brunch, lunch and dinner.  So, no work — and waffles — had to give the place a try.
We visited on a quiet Monday morning, but there were other diners there.  All seemed to be enjoying their choices, and we enjoyed ours.  My better half had the Waffle Supreme, which seemed to be a variation of a banana split on top of a waffle — lots of strawberries, banana, drizzles of chocolate syrup and whipped cream.  He pronounced it, "Very, very good."  I chose a savory waffle — topped with sausage patties and gravy.  My selection was served with, what else, waffle-fried potatoes.  I was also pleased with my choice.  
Service was attentive and coffee refills were offered before our cups were even near empty.  At one point our server said she had just made a fresh pot, and she brought us each a new and clean steaming cup.
The décor is so clean and pleasant.  Located on a corner in Tivoli Village, windows on two sides make the establishment full of light.  There is also an al fresco dining option at the Waffle Bar.
The Waffle Bar is located just north of and across the street from Brio as one enters from Alta Drive.  The eastern-most underground parking entrance is very near.  Just take the eastern-most elevator and you will exit near Kidville.  The Waffle Bar is just across the street.
The Las Vegas location of the Waffle Bar doesn’t appear to have a dedicated website at the time of this writing.  However, with a bit of creative Google search, I found the menu online.  Hours are daily, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 
With holiday visits from grandchildren looming on the horizon, avoid “Leggo my Eggo” disputes and take the family to the Waffle Bar, where everyone can have exactly what he or she desires. 

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COMMUNITY FOOD SPECIALS

Tavern at the Falls

          Wednesday Special – Prime Rib, $14.99
If you loved what chef Denis presented last Wednesday, then head up to Tavern for a second helping of this succulent dinner special. An 8-ounce cut of succulent prime rib is paired with herb-oasted potatoes, a vegetable medley and pan jus.

            

Sundays at The Summit

Sunday Breakfast Buffet. Now Featuring an Omelet Station, $11.99
Enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet, featuring scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes, fresh fruit, vegetables, fried rice, assorted cheeses and pastries. Coffee, ice tea, soft drink included. $2 mimosas. Served Sunday only, 9 a.m. to noon.

eat Comes to Summerlin
Restaurant Features Same Great Menu as Downtown Spot

Sometimes wishes do come true. A few years ago we took an out-of-town guest to Natalie Young’s restaurant eat located in the Las Vegas downtown area. The food was outstanding, the atmosphere perfect for a breakfast/lunch establishment, and the service was wonderful. Oh, to have such a place nearer our Sun City Summerlin. 
Well, now Ms. Young has granted that wish with the opening of eat-Summerlin Proper in the commercial center located on Village Center Circle in what Ms. Young denotes as “Summerlin Proper.”  Love it!  For nearly 20 years we have felt this shopping area was “our Summerlin.” In a conversation with Ms. Young, she said the name is because “there already is a downtown” and went on to add that Downtown Summerlin didn’t seem to make much sense. Might add, Ms. Young is a delightful gal who is hands-on and loves chatting with folks.
Now back to eat-Summerlin Proper. We went for breakfast mid-morning thinking it might not be too crowded. Though very busy, we were able to be seated at one of the last available tables. The menu at this location appears to be the same as the downtown site. 
We opted for big breakfasts, my better half ordering corned beef hash and eggs, and I ordering the chicken fried steak breakfast. We were both delighted with our choices, the servings were ample, the food truly delicious, and the service was very attentive but not intrusive. 
Recently we returned for lunch and were so happy we did.  This time we ordered sandwiches — a Reuben for my husband and a shrimp Po Boy for me. 
eat’s prices are reasonable and the surroundings so very pleasant. The restaurant is only open for breakfast and lunch.  It is located at 1910 Village Center Circle, Suite 1. The telephone number is 702-848-1897.  Hours are daily, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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Lola’s, a Louisiana Kitchen
Authentic Po' Boys, Soft Shell Crab, Crab Cakes & More

​Lola’s came to my attention because a friend sang its praises, loudly and clearly.  She had taken her mother to Lola’s for Mother’s Day and said the soft shell crab was wonderful. She said the location was downtown. Not my territory.  
However, I was interested in the menu offerings, so I Googled Lola’s and found there is a location very near our Sun City Summerlin. Well, duh! The Summerlin Lola’s is in the location previously occupied by Ruby Tuesday’s. Now, too near not to try.
Imagine my surprise at finding two of my all-time favorites on Lola’s menu — an oyster Po’ boy and sweet potato pie. My better half is a crab cake fan, so he was also delighted.
We ordered our favorites and were so pleased with our choices. Lola’s has a lot of Cajun offerings, and it seemed other diners were enjoying the variety. There is even a Sunday brunch with another of our favorites — beignets — that, we must return to try.  
Our servers were attentive, but not intrusive. Hate it when they want to become “my best friend.” The atmosphere is fun and there is a great bar section that can accommodate a sizable group for happy hour.
A bit after we tried the Summerlin Lola’s, we went there again with a lunch group.  Members of the group ordered a variety from the menu and all were pleased with their choices.
If you are a dessert-first person, note all the dessert servings are substantial. The sweet potato pie serving was enough for us both, and we noted three diners at the table next to us sharing peach cobbler.  
Lola’s Summerlin location’s address is: 1220 N. Town Center Drive. It should be noted that although the street address is Town Center, access to Lola’s is off Covington Cross Drive. 

Cinnamon's Serves Up a Taste of Hawaii
Pistachio Pancakes, Loco Moco Satisfy Island Cravings

Pistachio pancakes are an instant hit at Cinnamon's.

Wishing for a taste of Hawaii but don’t want the hassle of airport security or a long cramped flight? Nearby, Cinnamon’s is here to spare you such indignities and discomfort. 
Recently Cinnamon’s, a Kailua institution, opened its first mainland location near our Sun City Summerlin. The menu is made up of Hawaiian favorites that almost transport one back to the islands. The breakfast selections seem endless — variations of omelets, eggs Benedict, loco moco, pancake varieties and more. The servings are ample and the prices reasonable. The lunch menu also offers a wide range of choices. 
On our visit I tried loco moco. Be warned one must be really hungry to finish this menu item. My better half ordered pistachio pancakes and was so pleased with his choice.
The restaurant is spacious and welcoming, as are those who serve you.  Noting I was hobbling about, we were seated and offered table service, but non-limpers go to an ordering station and then select a table. The service was flawless — not overly intrusive, but with servers checking frequently and coffee refills offered often.
So, a faux trip to the islands can be had just blocks away.
Cinnamon’s (7591 W. Washington Ave., #110) is located on the southeast corner of Buffalo and Washington avenues in the space previously occupied by Chef Marc’s Parma. Cinnamon’s is open daily, except Tuesday, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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If you have a delicious idea to share with Tammy, email her at link@suncitylv.com.