The Bootlegger Italian Bistro

Family style italian restaurant. Bit off the strip but well worth it

Great local spot.

My family has been coming here since opening, we’ve had many great memories and celebrations at Bootlegger, always had top-notch service and food. After being away from Vegas a few years, we came back to visit our beloved restaurant… and I must say that the quality of the place has gone downhill drastically. The staff used to be so personable, and you felt like Family there. But this time the service was terrible and the food wasn’t that great. I fear that the once wonderful place has fallen apart.

Excellent Gnocci & Tiramisu! Dietary restrictions: Gluten free menu

The story behind the development of this family-centric business is awe-inspiring and that itself should be captivating enough to draw customers in here. But add that with quality food and (weekend) entertainment that is no short of spectacular, what you are left with is this restaurant that locals and visitors shouldn't miss out on. Located just a couple miles South of the infamous Las Vegas strip (off of Las Vegas Blvd), it's not far from the majority of the popular hotels/casinos - so traveling here in a rideshare or taxi is inexpensive and highly worth it. But unfortunately, locals like me that live in the far Northwest part of the city, it can be a little challenging to commute here, but I enjoyed it during the couple visits thus far. My family and I initially tried this restaurant back on 25 Aug 2019. I recall this visit mainly because of how we ended up at this restaurant - let's just say that it wasn't a typical "search for a new restaurant to try" type of visit; nor was it a, "Hey look, let's go try that restaurant," and then quickly veer off the road. Our initial visit was satisfactory, and I think it was due to the fact that before we moved to Las Vegas, we were never exposed to a lot of different Italian restaurants. We were accustomed to that all-famous "franchise chain" Italian restaurants that happen to serve AYCE salad and breadsticks. Believe it or not, it wasn't until the pandemic where we ordered delivery from one of the nearest Italian restaurants from our house, that we ventured away from the normalcy of Italian cuisine (spaghetti, lasagna, etc.)..hence my introduction to cioppino! Fast forward to years later, we've experienced many different Italian entrées and the majority of them were wonderful. My wife and I made a reservation (which I highly recommend to everyone) and decided to revisit this restaurant on 9 Mar 2024 since we've refined our palate and I believe enhanced our taste receptors since our initial visit. When we walked in, we were nicely greeted by the hostesses and I quickly remembered seeing all the historical pictures/décor from our first visit, which is entertaining to look at while you're waiting for your table (we arrived earlier than our reservation). When we got to our table, it was perfect because we had a great view of the live entertainment and the booth itself felt private (I couldn't see or hear the folks next to us). Our server, Kodie, was phenomenal; throughout the evening he busted his tail off ensuring customers, to include our table, were doing great and he never showed signs of slowing down. He and his staff that were assisting him were highly efficient, very attentive, and most of all, professional with his/their customer service skills. The drinks we chose to accompany our dinner were the Milano Mule and Sicilian Lemon Drop. Of noteworthy mention, that Milano Mule was one of the best Mules I have ever drank. For our dinner, we ordered Funghi di Maria, Insalata di Caesar, Seafood Fra Diavolo (SFD), Chef Maria's Saltimbocca, and Italian Cream Cake (for dessert). Everything was extraordinary! This restaurant's SFD is easily in my top 3 cioppino-style Italian dishes I've had in my life (well, since mid 2019). Also, my wife really enjoyed the Saltimbocca which I thought was prepared magnificently (see attached pictures). I also thought the Italian Cream Cake was excellent and that's coming from someone who's not a fan of desserts, nonetheless, lemon-inspired desserts. The price-to-quantity/quality ratio is impeccable and I really appreciate this business supporting the active men and women of the Armed Forces to include its Veterans - highly respectable! Overall, this restaurant is outstanding...I have nothing negative to mention. I profoundly recommend this restaurant to all locals and visitors - you will not be disappointed.

This place serves authentic Italian food. Really nice portions. Great marinara.