Las Vegas has long been known for its Classic Italian
Cuisine but surviving and thriving in the competitive culinary world is
tumultuous-many come and go with little or no fanfare throughout Vegas’
constantly changing restaurant culture.
There are those who by sheer will,
determination and gracious hospitality stand the test of time, serving award
winning cuisine year after year. Pasta Mia East and West proprietor and
Chef-Owner Armando Martinez has done just that, continuing garnering brilliant
reviews for his Northern Italian Cuisine starring his pasta and linguine with
fresh mussels and other dishes that have spanned three decades and yet, continue
to satisfy a new generation of discriminating diners.
Walking in, guests can’t help but notice the immaculate linen
adorned tables and the quaint garden patio. Huge floor to ceiling murals
featuring pastoral Italian scenes set the tone for an authentic Italian experience.
Martinez joined us at our table and discussed his many years in the industry.
“I have been in this business for over 30 years,” he smiled. “I was an opener
for the renown Piero’s Italian Restaurant. Over the years I have been fortunate
enough to serve Celine Dion, Andre Agassi, Brooke Shields and many other
celebrities and noted locals but it is has been the dedicated families that
keep coming back that have kept me in the kitchen these many years,” Chef
Armando added.
Being inspired by Martinez’s sincerity and passion, we were
in great anticipation to see what gastronomic delights were in store for us as
he retired into his kitchen to prepare our dining experience. Knowing some of
the dishes that have been on the menu for decades, our palates eagerly expected
serious culinary skill as the famous Lasagna Bolognese arrived at our table
signaling the beginning of a memorable evening.
The ideal way to begin is the Mozzarella Caprese Salad
featuring vibrant fresh tomatoes, house made mozzarella, spicy authentic olive
oil, balsamic vinaigrette, and fresh basil.
Chef Amarndo’s superb Chicken dishes whether its Marsala, Parmigiana,
Vesuvio or Piccata, are all beautifully composed- dictated by time tested
ingredients and dedicated culinary practice. Being known for house made pasta,
Pasta Mia’s classic Penne alla Vodka with thinly sliced Pancetta Ham in a creamy
tomato sauce and of course- touch of Vodka-is a must try.
A gift from the sea, the Orange Roughy Francese, an alchemic blend of delicate fish filets adorned in
white wine, lemon and butter is simple but supremely satisfying and one of the
most requested menu items. Another brilliant entrée choice is the Pollo
Pizzaiola.
The juicy Chicken Breast sautéed with generous garlic, capers, oregano,
fresh basil and red bell peppers accented in a light tomato sauce pairs
beautifully with many of the fine Italian or American wines offered on Pasta
Mia’s thoughtful wine list. For the grand FINI, Pasta Mia's own Cheesecake is a
defining way to end the evening.
Chef Martinez splits his time between Pasta Mia West and
Pasta Mia East. The menus are essentially the same. Featuring authentic
Northern Italian cuisine night after night. Pasta Mia East has a charming full
bar and an outstanding happy hour.
Regulars stop in year after year to partake in a very reasonable bar
menu serving Garlic Bread $1.99, Meatballs $5.99 and a fresh Caesar Salad $4.99,
Fried Calamari $5.99 and even Steamed Clams $8.99.
For a libation there are
many choices from Domestic Beer $3, Imported Beer $4, Red & White house
wines $4 and even Well Drinks for $5. And to add to the experience, enjoy live
music at Pasta Mia East as well.
Both locations will take you on an exceptional time-tested
culinary journey. You can taste dedication and passion in each bite. No matter what part of town you may be in,
East or West, Chef Armando’s award winning Northern Italian Cuisine will have
you coming back year after year.
