News 88.9 KNPR - Nevada Public Radio

Food for Thought

with John Curtas

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

Because someone has to champion truth, justice and a decent Caesar Salad, John Curtas shares his Food for Thought on KNPR.
Best of 2005 Awards

Send your comments to letters@knpr.org.


Jul 2, 2009		Bang for Your Buck
Everyone's food budget is tighter these days. But if you still want to dine out now and then, our dining critic John Curtas has a few tips on restaurants now giving you more bang for your buck.
Jun 19, 2009		Whassup with Wazuzu
Explore Dining Critic John Curtas' love/hate relationship with Wazuzu. If you want to spice up your dinner go for at least a "4 or 5."
Jun 12, 2009		Two Farmer's Markets
Fresh, locally produced food has become a big trend across the U.S. Our food critic, John Curtas, says there's more of this trend in Las Vegas than you might think.
Jun 4, 2009		M&M Soul Food Cafe
John Curtas tells us about one of his favorite dining spots - a surpsingly affordable one.
May 28, 2009		Checkpoint Charlie
While fine dining has seen a downturn in Las Vegas in recent months, our dining critic John Curtas says at least one dining legend intends to stay put. Charlie Trotter is standing pat in Las Vegas. John Curtas reviews Resturant Charlie.
May 8, 2009		Food Festival Frenzy!
It's a time of many food festivals in Las Vegas. John Curtas has an overview.
May 5, 2009		Peppermill Coffee Shop and Fireside Lounge
A landmark Las Vegas restaurant gets a visit from John Curtas. He takes you to the Peppermill.
Apr 23, 2009		Thai Me Up Thai Me Down
Thai cuisine is starting to show up in more places in Las Vegas. John Curtas has some recommendations
Apr 9, 2009		A Gourmet Corner - In Spring Valley?
Food Critic John Curtas takes a trip to the strangest gourmet corner in town.
Apr 2, 2009		Pip's is a Pip
If you're looking for good dining near Aliante, our dining critic, John Curtas, has found a new place to go.
Mar 26, 2009		Stripped to Its Bare Essentials
Dining on steak at Planet Hollywood! John Curtas takes you along.
Mar 19, 2009		Hachi is absolutely amazing!
John Curtas has a find - a Japanese-fusion restaurant on the west edge of the city.
Mar 12, 2009		Embrace the Ides of March
It's a tough time for hospitality in Las Vegas, but John Curtas says it's also a time bringing out the best in some area chefs.
Feb 26, 2009		The Cult of the Cocktail
While John Curtas pays a lot of attention to what's on his plate, sometimes he takes some time to focus on what's in his glass.
Feb 19, 2009		James Beard Awards Semifinalists Announced
Reviewing the nominees for the James Beard Awards, John Curtas notes that this year's nominees include a lot of Las Vegans.
Feb 5, 2009		Botero
Food critic John Curtis tells us where you can find the latest from one very talented chef.
Jan 22, 2009		Dat Sum Dim Sum and Dem Sum
Food critic, John Curtas tracks down great dim sum with a legendary food writer.
Jan 15, 2009		My Sake with Shimon
John Curtas, taken to task... and conceding the point!
Jan 8, 2009		Le Cirque: A Table In Heaven
John Curtas tells us about an HBO documentary with a Las Vegas touch. He reviews "Le Cirque - a Table in Heaven."
Jan 2, 2009		A Not-So-Happy New Year for Restaurants
Are the recent closings of some of Vegas' great restaurants a harbinger of things to come? Food Critic John Curtas shares his concerns.
Dec 26, 2008		Major Restaurant Awards - 2008
It's that time again - John Curtas shares this year's favs when it comes to eating out.
Dec 12, 2008		Last Rites for AJ's
Visiting a restaurant one more time John Curtas pays a final call on AJ's Steakhouse.
Dec 4, 2008		Slow Down and Save a Salmon
The idea of slow food is slowly, very slowly, making its way across the U.S. Our food critic, John Curtas, counts himself as a fan.
Nov 20, 2008		Back to the Future
Some Las Vegas chefs were among those in attendance at a Napa Valley food symposium. Our food critic, John Curtas, was there too, and he says dining trends seems to be headed back to the future.
Nov 13, 2008		Belt Tightening
The economic downturn has resulted in many changes for the restaurant industry in Las Vegas. John Curtas says some of the changes may be for the better.
Nov 6, 2008		Yellowtail
John Curtas has been checking out sushi restaurants, and he's found one he likes at the Bellagio.
Oct 2, 2008		Iron Chef America
This weekend's Iron Chef America has a Las Vegas judge on the panel. A guy we know, John Curtas. He survived the ordeal and gives us a preview.
Sep 25, 2008		Sushi Samba
Is it Sushi or what? John Curtas is confused and disappointed after visiting Sushi Samba.
Sep 12, 2008		Sushi, We Hardly Knew Yee
John Curtas says the popularity of sushi has resulted in a loss of quality nearly across the board.
Sep 5, 2008		Los Molcajetes
John Curtas has found a great Mexican restaurant, family owned, clean, bright, friendly and authentic.
Aug 29, 2008		Restaurant Week and Three Square
John Curtas needs no excuse to dine out, but he's got one all set to go for next week, and he's sharing it now.
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		China Grill

May 25, 2000		Spiedini Ristorante

May 18, 2000		Chicago Hot Dogs

May 11, 2000		Wining at Bonjour

May 4, 2000		Luv-It Custard

Apr 27, 2000		Bonjour

Apr 20, 2000		Gabriel's Green Lips Cafe'

Apr 13, 2000		R-J Food Critic

Apr 6, 2000		Pinot Brasserie - Venetian

Mar 30, 2000		Charlie Trotter's

Mar 23, 2000		Chefs!

Mar 16, 2000		Lunch at Lone Star

Mar 9, 2000		Sunday Morning Breakfast

Mar 2, 2000		Food Fusion

Feb 24, 2000		Saigon

Feb 17, 2000		Full Ho

Feb 10, 2000		Nevada Nick's

Jan 27, 2000		Habib's

Jan 20, 2000		Lindo Michoacan

Jan 13, 2000		Coyote Cafe'

Jan 6, 2000		Koreana

Dec 30, 1999		More Top Ten Bang for the Buck

Dec 23, 1999		Top Ten Bang for the Buck

Dec 16, 1999		Top Ten for 1999

Dec 9, 1999		Roxy's Pipe Organ Pizza

Dec 2, 1999		La Taqueria

Nov 25, 1999		The Original Thanksgiving Dinner

Nov 18, 1999		Taco Two

Nov 11, 1999		Taco Bell

Nov 4, 1999		Sugar Babes Cafe'

Sep 30, 1999		Circo and more...

Sep 23, 1999		Nobu

Sep 16, 1999		Gabriel's Green Lips Cafe'

Sep 9, 1999		Schuler's Roadhouse

Sep 2, 1999		Rosemary's

Aug 26, 1999		Habib's

Aug 19, 1999		Valentino's

Aug 12, 1999		Abdullah's

Aug 5, 1999		Hard Rock Steakhouse

Jul 29, 1999		North Beach Cafe

Jul 22, 1999		China Grill

Jul 15, 1999		French Food in America

Jul 8, 1999		Best of Las Vegas?

Jul 1, 1999		Star Canyon

Jul 1, 1999		Celebrity Chefs and Star Canyon

Jun 17, 1999		Venice Versus Vegas

Jun 3, 1999		Gold Coast Mike's

May 27, 1999		Aureole

May 20, 1999		Portabella's

May 13, 1999		Smith & Wollensky

Apr 22, 1999		Pita Place

Apr 15, 1999		Sunset Station Buffet

Apr 8, 1999		Red Apple GriIl

Mar 25, 1999		Celeb Chefs

Mar 11, 1999		Coyote Cafe

Mar 4, 1999		Andre's French Restaurant

Feb 11, 1999		Impeachment Blues

Feb 4, 1999		McCormick & Schmick's

Jan 28, 1999		Tinoco's Bistro

Jan 21, 1999		Iowa Cafe

Jan 14, 1999		How to Tip & How I Tip

Dec 31, 1998		1998 Year in Review - Part 2

Dec 24, 1998		1998 Year in Review - Part 1

Dec 17, 1998		Caesar Salad

Dec 10, 1998		The Bellagioist

Dec 3, 1998		Green Shack

Nov 26, 1998		Bellagio

Nov 19, 1998		Petrossian

Nov 12, 1998		Celebrity Chefs

Nov 5, 1998		Cafe Heidelberg

Oct 29, 1998		Dog Days of Summer

Oct 22, 1998		Eating is Like Sex

Oct 8, 1998		El Sombrero

Oct 1, 1998		So Many Restaurants, So Little Time

Sep 24, 1998		Swordfish

Sep 17, 1998		Mid-East Madness

Sep 10, 1998		El Calderon

Jul 1, 1998		Nana B's

Jul 1, 1998		Cafe Nicolle

Jul 1, 1998		Paris, France

Jun 1, 1998		New York Steak Experience

Jun 1, 1998		In-n-Out Burger

May 1, 1998		Ol' Blue Eyes

Jan 15, 1998		Abdullah's

Jan 8, 1998		1997 in Review

Nevada Yesterdays The collection of essays written by historian Frank Wright that immortalize the real history of Las Vegas. Purchase your copy.

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