Tasty Places :: La La Noodle

Fifteen years ago, I might have combusted at the thought of dining alone. But why? I grew up an only child. I’m used to doing everything alone. But my late 20s/early 30s was an insecure time. How odd would I seem to others in the restaurant who have other persons to speak to? Plus, back then my block of a cell phone didn’t do much to keep me entertained.

But things done changed. I relish time to myself, whether at home or out in the world. So even in Las Vegas, a spot celebrate for its social scene, I took a little me time and dined solo at La La Noodle in the brand new MGM Park Casino.

The big challenge would be the leftovers. Without a microwave in my hotel (and, let’s face it, with another ba-zillion other places to eat over my long weekend visit), chances were slim that I’d later finish what I couldn’t eat during my sitting. But still, I ordered more than I could handle, even though it was just an appetizer, drink, and an entrée. I started with the crispy lobster dumplings, succulent little fried bites topped with Sriracha mayo.

I guess it would have been nice to share them with a special someone. But my husband hadn’t yet arrived, still at work in Cali, driving up to meet me that evening.

So, I had a drink. Not due to insecurity or anything. I just like to get my drank on. My choice? La La’s version of a gin and tonic – which ended up being the exact version of a Dianderthal G & T, made with Fever Tree Elderflower tonic water, just as I do at home.

My server was super sweet. Maybe she felt bad for the adult only child dining alone in Vegas making company of her phone. Her name was Karen, and she called me Ms. Brown all evening (she had my name from my reservation). She checked in on me quite a bit, making sure I was pleased with my eventual entrée, La La’s pad thai, a phenomenal noodle dish just sweet and saucy enough.

So okay – fine. I guess I might have enjoyed my experience a wee bit more if I had someone to share it with. Besides Karen. But she ended up being a fine enough pseudo-companion. Even remembered my name when I came back the next evening for a to-go order (I picked up something for my kid; and I did indeed take a few bites of my refrigerated leftovers). I doubt we would’ve become so close if I weren’t a party of one.

So La La Noodle is definitely a worth contender for your Vegas dollars, although it will take a lot of them. Still, the service and space make it a little easier to crack open your wallet. While I may return the next time in Vegas, I’m anxious to try fellow MGM Park eatery Best Friend by Roy Choi.

Truth be told, I certainly won’t go to Best Friend alone (the irony!). I guess there’s still some insecurity to be had even in my 40s. Then again, with alcohol and an Iphone, anything is possible.

La La Noodle at MGM Park in Las Vegas