Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House In Las Vegas Wins Accolade

For decades, Las Vegas has had a love affair with steakhouses, and in modern times, "celebrity chefs" are opening some of the world's best steakhouses right on the Strip.

Recently, one classic restaurant in Las Vegas added even more accolades to its plate. Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House was recognized as one of the 100 Best Steakhouses in America for 2016 by OpenTable. Del Frisco's has been a favorite of corporate leaders and conventioneers for years. It's known for offering the classic steakhouse dining experience, complemented by a huge award-winning wine list. Many staff have taken care of returning guests with their warm and genuine hospitality.

We were long overdue for a visit and decided the latest accolades were our cue. The first stop, of course, was the beautiful bar that has one of the best happy hours in town. Taking our seats amid men and women in business suits, we could not have been more impressed with the staff, clientele, cocktails and live piano lounge music. We started with an Old Fashioned made with Knob Creek Bourbon. Staying in the classic cocktail mode, we also tried a Pecan Maple Manhattan featuring pecan-infused smoked maple Knob Creek Bourbon, whiskey barrel-aged bitters, and praline bacon garnish.

Del Frisco's many repeat guests have a secret. Knowledge of a secret menu, that is. Only those with the inside scoop know the off-menu delights, many inspired by Del Frisco's regulars and local celebrities. We plan on returning to unlock the secrets.

Wine is a big part of the Del Frisco's experience. This historic dining venue is home to many top female sommeliers who recently created Somm Wars, a friendly three-city wine competition, which will become an annual event. In looking over the extensive wine list, our eyes locked on some of the rarest vintages and bottles we have seen in quite some time.

Taking our seats, we were joined by executive chef Fernando Guerrero and general manager Torryn Orriss, both beaming with pride over their most recent award. Looking over the menu, many items caught our attention. With a 2014 bottle of Kenneth Volk Zinfandel on the table, we were ready for our culinary journey.

We started with the heirloom tomatoes and burrata with aged balsamic reduction and pesto, with colors that jumped off the plate and flavors that awakened our taste buds. The jumbo lump crab cake with Cajun lobster sauce was rich and creamy with the perfect hint of spice. For even more lobster, add the lobster macaroni and cheese to your selection.

Del Frisco's, of course, is known for its award-winning steaks, and we had to indulge in one of their signature specialties: the prime ribeye. This steak, prepared medium rare, is 16 ounces of pure pleasure. There is more, much more. The braised short rib, with buttered root vegetables and château mashed potatoes is falling-off-the-bone good.

Del Frisco's has had a fine reputation for decades. After our visit, we have to say it has not lost anything over time. In fact, it can show some of the current steakhouses how to retain that classic atmosphere.