Luxury and a tongue-in-cheek nod to classic dining collide at Stanton Social Prime, Tao Group Hospitality’s latest venture inside of Caesars Palace (the restaurant takes over the former space of Searsucker). Designed by the Rockwell Group, the restaurant channels Art Deco style with rich burgundy, sapphire, and golden colors that complement an extravagant costume wardrobe. We chatted with Chef Chris Santos (you might recognize him as an occasional judge on Chopped) about his latest venture, its connection to his other restaurants (like Beauty & Essex at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas), and what diners can expect from the opulent Stanton Social Prime.
Behind the Menu at Stanton Social Prime in Las Vegas
Stanton Social Prime’s menu is unique, with a few familiar touches. “The menu Stanton Social Prime still carries the throughline of all of my restaurants, which is communal dining and shareable plates,” Santos told us. “This is truly how I like to eat and has been my signature throughout my years as a chef. The main addition we made at Stanton Social Prime is putting a modern focus on prime meats. I spent several weeks working on a Texas cattle ranch with two of my chefs, and that informed the steak portion of our menu, which features beef from top producers across the country.”
Diners can expect to find a unique presentation and a modern take on some classic dishes. “We always like to add a bit of whimsical flair to our dishes,” Santos explained. “Dining out should be fun, and we like to take classic dishes and add a unique spin, like our tater tots, which are giant and topped with lobster crème fraiche and caviar. Or the signature French onion soup dumplings, which we brought back from the original Stanton Social in New York City.” The crowning glory of the menu is a massive 64-ounce bone-in ribeye that steals the show, hung from a trellis, and served with flambéed au jus poured tableside, accompanied by bone marrow and short rib. Alongside this is a range of equally flamboyant dishes, including Black Truffle Wagyu Ribeye Cheesesteak Sliders and Lobster Mac & Cheese flambéed in cognac.
Expect out-of-the-ordinary in items ranging from starters to the Strawberry Milkshake dessert. “Desserts provide a great opportunity to create over-the-top dishes that taste delicious and look great on Instagram, which is perfect for Vegas,” Santos said of the fully edible milkshake piece (this includes both the cup and straw). “Sharing a unique and playful moment with your dining companions creates memorable experiences, and that connection is really what it is about.” Even the bread and butter is unique. “The butter board is a trend that has been growing, but of course, at Stanton Social Prime, we put our own twist on it with smoked butter accompanied by sourdough demi baguettes, crudites and Maldon sea flakes.”
Prepare for an unforgettable evening in the gorgeously designed space. “Stanton Social Prime draws inspiration from my original restaurant on New York’s Lower East Side and the Las Vegas Strip, with a modern nod to Art Deco style and dramatic showmanship,” Santos said of the space. “There are rich textures, colors and patterns found in extravagant costume design. It is a glamorous space and perfect for a Vegas night out.”
