If you’ve ever wondered if coffee house Nirvana exists in Las Vegas head over to the Boca Park area. The answer is “yes.”

The minute I walked through the door the first time at SambaLatte, I had the feeling I wanted to relax with my caffeine of choice with a friend or client and hang.  The place opened a couple months ago in what’s becoming a restaurant row destination with Cheesecake Factory, Kona Grill and other eating establishments close by.

SambaLatte elevates coffee to another level.  On the other hand it doesn’t take itself too seriously. After all, we’re talking about coffee. We’re not loading astronauts or anything.

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Generally, I’m not a steak kind of gal.  It’s not the first thing that pops out at me on a menu.  I’ll take salmon, roasted free-range chicken.  At a Mexican restaurant if they have good Carnitas I’m all over it like a cheap suit. I’m just saying…

Nothing against beef or beef eaters.  Just not my thang.  To make matters worse, my husband Ernie gave up beef and pork cold turkey four years ago.  So, when we walked in the door at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse – I was hoping for alternatives. We’ll see what happens, I thought.

Ernie and I were warmly greeted and whisked to a comfy, leather booth. Fleming’s is quintessential steakhouse decor.  Wood paneling, creamy linens, sparkling crystal and subdued lighting. The whole nine with a modern sensibility.  The kitchen is visible from the dining room and hums along.

From 20-somethings sipping Ciroc at the bar, trying to look hip like Diddy, to an office group in starched shirts and ties, to couples bringing their senior parents for a celebratory evening. This isn’t a niche joint of Gen Yers or Boomers. It’s a cross section of folks taking time to enjoy the ambience, the drinks and the food.

Service was friendly, brisk and unobtrusive. The wait staff and servers move – but we never felt rushed. Cindy, our server, did a great job answering our questions throughout the meal.

First, we got a loaf of warm Rosemary Bread.  I’m a sucker for rosemary. It was accompanied with two compbound butters: sun-dried tomato butter, and, feta cheese butter.  Enjoyed ‘em both, but the feta was my fave.

Oh lordy, what was to come?

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