Let me tell you first-off, I ADORE Annie’s!!  It’s my favorite restaurant in the Las Vegas area.  Let me list a few reasons, and then I’ll go into more depth.

1.  It’s SO easy to get to!  It’s right off the 215 and Valle Verde Drive, in the Smith’s shopping center, so even with me coming from the other side of town, it only takes about 20 minutes to get there (in good traffic!).  Easy off the ramp, it’s on the right, and easy back on the freeway.  Easy peasy! If you need directions, hit the website: http://anniesgourmet.org/
2.   The decor is so charming and welcoming.  Wonderful music to accompany your meal and not a loud atmosphere.
3.    The food is AMAZING!!!
4.    The service is top-notch and so friendly.  (Hard to get that in Vegas!)
5.    They built an entre’e just for me, and they have a Gluten-free menu as well (See pic below)
6.    If you have dogs, check out Ookie’s Garden.

Decor

Even before you walk in, you’re greeted with classic music by Frank Sinatra and the like.  As you walk in, Lana, or one of the other servers greet you with a smile.  Annie’s has a “speakeasy” bar, hidden in the back wall, called The Lost Weekend Bar.  Small tables and bar service, with TVs to watch sports if you are into that.  Note:  During football season, it’s a Cleveland Browns bar!

The booths are roomy and quite comfortable.  We were there for hours and it was just fine.  To separate the booths, Annie has placed huge family photos, which adds to the homey feel.

Food

This is a perfect place to take out of town guests or friends.  We brought my cousin, and her response was, “This is the freshest food I’ve had out in a long time.  The Alfredo sauce was so light!”  Keep in mind also that she had been eating at high end restaurants in Las Vegas.

For those of you who are Gluten-free, Annie’s offers a section of their menu that is just for you!  (If this is difficult to read, again, check her website for full menu items.)

For me, Annie makes a special plate.  All I had to do was tell Aaron, our terrific server, “Tell Annie to make the ‘Marti special'”.  Basically, it’s Chicken Picatta, modified for my diet.  Here’s Annie’s description of the “regular” Chicken Picatta.

“Chicken breasts floured, sautéed in lemon butter, white wine, and capers, served over a bed of angel hair pasta.”

Mine is without flour, still sautéed in lemon butter, white wine, and capers, served over a bed of sautéed spinach, with shaved Parmesan cheese.  Just look how pretty it looks!

The wine is from Annie’s family winery, DeFalco.

If you are bringing those folks who don’t have dietary restrictions, tell them to try the Rice Balls or Stuffed Mushrooms for an Appetizer.  Everyone LOVES them!  Also, Annie’s Tiramisu is to die for!  My family was so full (Annie serves a LOT of food!) but they just HAD to share a Tiramisu.  Each bite was accompanied by joyful murmurs of delight!

Restroom Decor

People like me, have spent a LOT of time in restrooms ( 😉 ), so I will always comment on a great one.  Annie’s is even set on comfort and homeyness in the restroom.  Padded chairs in case you have to wait, and many photos to keep your eyes occupied. 

Super Dog Friendly

Not only does Annie’s love people, they also love your “furry children” as well!  There is an outside garden, called, “Ookie’s Garden”, where dogs are treated to their own water bowls and even their own menu!  It’s a beautiful spot.

Check out Annie’s Gourmet Italian if you are in the Las Vegas area.  You won’t be disappointed!