Before the turn of the millennium, Bellagio altered the landscape of Las Vegas dining when it built world-celebrated chef restaurants overlooking its iconic fountains. The tradition of delivering award-winning, lakeside epicurean experiences continues as it debuts LAGO by Julian Serrano – a contemporary, Milan-inspired Italian restaurant concept.
“I remember when I was approached about opening my first Bellagio restaurant, Picasso, in front of some ‘wild fountain.’ It was unheard of at the time, but the potential was undeniable,” said Serrano. “LAGO is a continuation of what Jean-Georges [Vongerichten], Sirio [Maccioni], Todd [English] and I started here – executing exceptional, thought-provoking cuisine in a setting you can’t find anywhere else in the world.”
Boasting a new outdoor patio with arguably the most spectacular views of the world-famous fountains, LAGO’s cutting-edge space is inspired by Italian Futurism – the sweeping artistic and cultural movement of early 20th century Italy.
The entire space is injected with a colorful pulse, from a bold 1,500-square-foot mosaic map of Milan at its entrance to the sleek marble mixology counter greeting guests with a one-of-a-kind cocktail program. The dining room, designed by the award-winning Munge Leung, features large arched windows maximizing views of the scenic fountains to ensure every table is the best seat in the house.
At his third Las Vegas restaurant, Michelin-starred Serrano lets his expertise shine through an extensive menu of small-plate masterpieces built to encourage guests to experiment and explore.
LAGO offers its own creations like the Salmone with anchovies and the Tonno (aka Tuna), paired with a seasonally changing citrus. LAGO’s pastas showcase elite culinary skills and artistry, which dazzle the senses like the Calamarata, little calamari-pasta rings from Gragnano in Naples delicately stylized with squid sauce. Serrano hasn’t limited LAGO to small plates. The menu also boasts an indulgent section aimed at the hearty eater with creations such as the Piedmontese beef tenderloin with gorgonzola cheese or the Bistecca one-pound ribeye trimmed with sea salt.
Wine connoisseurs will delight in LAGO’s wine menu featuring 750 bottles from highly sought-after labels such as Sassicaia and Gaja as well as to hard-to-find small production Italian varietals like Nebbiolo and Sangiovese. The collection also offers a large collection from vineyards in California and Oregon.
Lago is open from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. nightly and is located off the casino floor next to Hyde Bellagio.
