I’ve been twice and I’d go back anytime. It’s a fun and unique restaurant.
I’m talking about Black-Out Dining. I first heard of this distinctive restaurant concept from two friends who’d been and highly recommended it. There seem to be a few of these around the country (and world), but I’m talking about the place in Las Vegas. (A London version is in the movie, About Time, which I watched before my first visit and is very fun!)
I happened to be in Las Vegas back in May and suggested it to the friends I was meeting/retreating with. 5 of us made the bold decision to visit a restaurant where we wouldn’t be able to see (or know) the menu, choose our food, or even see our food when it was served. We’d be eating completely in the dark.
A few things to know:
Yes, you will be eating completely in the dark. You’re given a locker to stow purses, phones, and watches.
The menu is prix fixe and vegetarian-based (and absolutely delicious).
As you check out/pay, you’re shown a copy of the menu, so you can then figure out what you ate. But you can’t take a picture of it. 😦
The women I was with in May all enjoyed the experience and we had a blast. I wanted to bring Stud Muffin, but it didn’t work for that trip. But last month, we found we were going through Las Vegas, so I made dinner and hotel reservations and we started off.
Some of the courses seemed similar to what I’d had in May, but others were completely different.
Again, I had a blast and Stud Muffin didn’t complain too much. In fact, I think he kind of enjoyed it too.
Because I don’t eat a lot, the first few courses, I’d take two or three bites, then ask for his hand and put the rest of my portion in his hand.
There were seven courses and even Stud Muffin was full by the time dessert arrived.
It really is completely dark. Which likely saves on interior decoration and styling costs. The servers wear night vision goggles, so they can help you to your table (you go conga line), and out, and where to place your food in front of you. They give clear instructions about where to find your napkin, flatware, and drinks. There’s even a panic button on the table if someone gets totally freaked out.
If you’re ever in Vegas for a show or whatever, I highly recommend dinner at Black-Out Dining. If you go, be sure and let me know what you think!
Writer of Sweet Small Town Stories of Love and Family 