RAO’S – Five Treats in One Night!
I always say that a great dinner is the perfect combination of great food and great company. Last night was no exception. My client, Bob, – who quickly became my friend when we worked together last year – invited me to join him for dinner at RAO’s at Caesars Palace last night. What a treat!
The wonderful hostesses seated us immediately, in spite of the fact that the reservation had gotten lost. They apologized that the only table they had was next to a group of 24 that was due to arrive in about a half-hour. Anyone who’s ever sat next to a rowdy bridal party or corporate function where the alcohol flows knows that it can get loud. We were curious about the group that unfortunately arrived early.
We braced ourselves, fearing the noise that would make conversation difficult. It never happened! This group was one of the most genteel, respectful and quiet groups. Yes, they were drinking…a lovely red that had been decanted for them. But they never got rowdy. This turned out to be treat # 3.
Treat #1 was the fact that Bob invited me to join him for dinner after arriving in Las Vegas early so that he could hear me speak. He is also a speaker, and so he was curious to hear my presentation and things just worked out great.
Treat #2 was the wine. Bob is a red wine drinker but he was such a gentleman, he let me select a white. We could have had wines by the glass, but he said he was up for a glass of white. Krista, the sommelier, helped us to select an Italian white that was delicious – a nice blend that was similar to a pinot grigio that was leaning toward a chardonnay. Whatever it was, it was wonderful…and the staff kept our glasses full of the cold white.
Of course the delights didn’t stop there. Treat #4 was the service. Our waiter was Robert. He pulled up a chair briefly to say “Hello” and tell us what to expect at RAO’s. It was such a sweet gesture. And his smile was consistent. I’m fairly tough on waiters, unless they impress me as being in complete control….and Robert was awesome. He was there when we needed him and not intrusive when we didn’t. Greg backed him up discreetly, which is nice when steeped in conversation.
Finally, there was the food: treat #5. Does “YUM” begin to cover it? Bob’s dish of Chicken with peppers was unique, delicious and flavorful. The chicken was apparently seared to where the skin and flesh was crispy – like you’d expect in an Asian dish, only the taste was pure Italian. The peppers and slices of sausage contributed to the distinctive flavor and texture of this remarkable dish. I had a shrimp dish that was equally delicious. The Caesar salad was really nice, too. And did I mention the bread? I was sorry I took a piece of crust as it wasn’t long before I had polished off the entire slice. Once I started, there was no going back.
So – five treats in one night is about five more than one can expect. I guess you could say our conversation was treat #6….we didn’t stop! Bob has traveled everywhere….twice! He knows so much about so many topics…and the fact that he also speaks and is a trainer gave us a lot of stories to share. He’s such a nice guy.
I knew what I was doing when I wrote “The Art of the Business Lunch.” This was the second time I got to have dinner with Bob and the more I get to know him, the more I enjoy his company. There really is nothing like breaking bread to build a relationship. So….who are YOU taking out to lunch this week?
