Tverskaya Russian Restaurant

Stepping through the doors into a small dining area reminiscent of a rustic cottage, it feels as if one has left 21st century Vegas and stepped into a scene from 'Dr. Zhivago.' Menu offerings do nothing to shatter the illusion -- you'll find no American ringer dishes in here amidst the skoblyanka, suzdal cutlets and chicken tabaka. You'd think Las Vegas had a thriving Russian community by the number of patrons speaking the language every night at Artem Eliseevsky. Of course dishes that are long-associated with Russia are served, but there's much more at Artem Eliseevsky than caviar, borscht and vodka. The less adventurous will find a few familiar names -- beef stroganoff, blinis and grilled pork. But even these are prepared as they are in the mother country: The blinis, more crepe-like than pancake-like, are served with smoked salmon and stuffed green olives, and the stroganoff is grilled instead of braised, with mushrooms and onions, and served with roasted buckwheat groats. Also on the menu are named dishes with a sense of humor, like the steamed beef tongue referred to as 'Mother-in-Law's Tongue', and the 'Tiny Waist' special (green beans grilled with onions, mushrooms and basil with a tomato sauce). Those who enjoy live music should definitely visit on a Friday or Saturday night for their Russian singer, Natalya Grozovskaya. Anyone expecting all Russian food to be bland would be pleasantly surprised by the mouth-watering dishes. The Hansel and Gretel rustic charm of Vegas's only authentic Russian restaurant will make for a memorable dining experience. Located just one mile east of the strip, Restaurant Artem Eliseevsky offers authentic Russian food and entertainment. When you dine here, you'll realize why this restaurant has become a top Las Vegas nightspot. The Hansel and Gretel rustic charm of Vegas's only authentic Russian restaurant will make for a memorable dining experience.