You may not know the name Frank Bonanno, but chances are you’ve eaten in one of his food courts in an MGM property or grabbed a quick bite at one of his franchised fast food spots like Johnny Rockets, Haagen-Dazs or Nathan’s Famous. Trattoria Reggiano is Bonanno’s foray into a more upscale concept, with their first location opened at the Venetian a few years ago and a second location opening recently at Downtown Summerlin. Steps away from the movie theater there’s ample opportunity for them to attract foot traffic in this busy area with a large patio with large screen TVs, a bar with inside and outside seating, and a cozy dining area overlooking an open kitchen.
Even with a large menu the best thing you might eat here are the garlic knots. I think I came close to eating two baskets worth all by myself. I didn’t care if I wreaked of garlic or that I’d be sweating it out of my pores the next day, they were pretty damn good. As for the rest of the stuff I tried… meh. The menu is typical Italian-American food, the kind of stuff you’ll see in a million other spots. Perfect for the non-adventurous eater — the kind of diner who thinks not eating at a national chain is a bit risky.
The kitchen plays it safe and turns out unremarkable food. Meatballs ($14) made from a filet mignon and pork loin mixture were too hard and dense with a sauce that lacked depth. The small portion of the kale peanut salad ($8) was plenty to share, but the underdressed dish had me reaching for water to wash it down. The end of the meal took a turn for the better with a satisfying, but uninspired, lasagna ($22) filled with ground filet, ricotta, and mozzarella.
Kid menus are available as well. My son’s spaghetti (ordered sans tomato sauce, just butter) was a sizable portion that he devoured. Each kid’s meal comes with a beverage and mini cannoli.
The food is more paint-by-numbers than Monet — taking a conservative approach to the cuisine — but is just good enough to satisfy a suburban customer base used to eating recognizable Italian.
2.5 Stars
Downtown Summerlin
2020 Park Centre Dr
Las Vegas, NV 89135
