Las Vegas Food Reviews: Primal Steakhouse Las Vegas. Is Trip Advisor's #1 Restaurant Worth the Hype?

Published on 27 April 2025 at 14:54

When you think of the best steakhouses in Las Vegas, your mind likely drifts to the glittering Strip, but what if the number one spot on TripAdvisor is actually a hidden gem located just minutes away?  Primal Steakhouse Las Vegas has earned it's reputation, consistently praised as a top-rated dining experience.  We took the short uber ride off the Strip to find out if this medieval-themed, fine dining restaurant truly lived up to the hype.

If you’re looking for the best steakhouse in Las Vegas that delivers on quality, atmosphere, and service, keep reading.

Food at Primal Steakhouse, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

The Welcome and Theatrical Cocktails

Stepping into Primal Steakhouse is like entering a sophisticated, dimly lit castle.  The theme is undeniably medieval/Viking-inspired, but executed with upscale refinement. Dark wood, plush seating, and subtle ironwork create a moody, romantic atmosphere perfect for a special occasion or a serious steak craving.  This off-Strip Las Vegas restaurant location (near the Boulevard Mall) might be unexpected, but it contributes to the restaurant's charm. It feels like an exclusive discovery, far removed from the strip and casinos, ensuring a focused and intimate dining experience.

From the moment we walked inside, the service was impeccable.  Our server immediately greeted us, showed us to our table and guided us through the impressive menu and extensive cocktail list.  The start of the evening set the stage for the theatrical experience to come.  The boys opted for soft drinks, Mark chose a crisp lager, but I went for the showstopper: the Viking Punch cocktail.

Served in an incredible, massive Viking horn and dramatically chilled with dry ice, this was more than just a drink, it was an experience.  It was packed with fantastic flavour and, due to its size, surprisingly lasted the entire first course!  If you visit Primal Steakhouse, this signature cocktail is an absolute must-try for both its flavour and its visual impact.

Starters: A Seafood Sensation

The menu at Primal is a masterclass in classic steakhouse favourites, executed with modern flair.  For starters, we decided on a couple of seafood options.  We shared the Seared Scallops, which were perfectly caramelized with a sweet, delicate interior, a true highlight. Alongside these, we had the Shrimp Scampi, served in a rich, garlic butter sauce that begged to be soaked up with the accompanying bread.  These dishes were the perfect appetisers to ramp up our appetite for the main event.

Food at Primal Steakhouse, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Food at Primal Steakhouse, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Food at Primal Steakhouse, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Food at Primal Steakhouse, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Mains: Primal Cuts and Culinary Classics

As the best steakhouse in Las Vegas, the cuts of meat are naturally the star, but their other entrees hold their own.  For our main courses, we sampled a few different sides of the menu.

  • The Airline Chicken: A fantastic, flavourful choice that was cooked to perfection.  It was tender and juicy, proving this isn't just a place for red meat.

  • The Short Rib: Slow-cooked and meltingly tender, this dish was rich and deeply satisfying, pairing perfectly with a bold red wine.

The kids were equally happy, declaring the Primal Burger and accompanying fries to be among the best they’d ever had.  It was a testament to the kitchen’s attention to quality, even on the more casual offerings.

The Grand Finale: Flaming Desserts and Tableside Show

By the time the dessert menu arrived, we were quite full, but the temptation was too strong, we knew we couldn't leave without trying the finale!  We decided on two desserts to share: the Crème Brûlée and the Lava Cake.  Our server brought the desserts over, and then, with a flourish, created a magnificent tableside show!  Both the creamy Crème Brûlée (with its perfect, crisp sugar shell) and the rich Lava Cake were dramatically set on fire right there.  Watching the flames dance over the sweet treats, especially the warm, gooey chocolate of the Lava Cake, was a memorable way to finish our five-star dinner.

The Final Verdict

If you are looking for a top-rated Las Vegas steakhouse that offers a theatrical atmosphere, impeccable service, and phenomenal food then Primal Steakhouse should be on your Las Vegas itinerary.  Primal Steakhouse delivers an unforgettable meal that rivals the most expensive establishments on the Las Vegas Strip but due to it's location, it offers much better value.  It's clear why Primal Steakhouse frequently claims the top spot among Las Vegas restaurants on platforms like TripAdvisor.  It’s not just a steakhouse, it's a culinary destination.

Ready to reserve your feast? We highly recommend booking a table in advance, especially for weekend dining. Check out our video here!

The Cookes at Primal Steakhouse, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
The Cookes at Primal Steakhouse, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
The Cookes at Primal Steakhouse, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
The Cookes at Primal Steakhouse, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

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