I’d booked a reservation for two at Roy Choi’s Best Friend in Las Vegas, thinking that I could nab a date with the husband after a full day of volleyball tournament matches (these days, the only reason I ever go to Sin City). My husband, however, was happy with a to-go order and quality time under the covers watching a game. So he didn’t mind at all when asked if he’d tap out as my evening company in favor of my volleymom BFF, Fran who, like me, enjoys sampling cuisine in exotic places (like Vegas).
Best Friend tricks you when you first enter, presenting itself as a convenience store kitchenette, limited to counter seating. But behind a velvet curtain, you find yourself whisked back to the early 90s, hip-hop beats blaring from above amid a wide-open space textured with tiles and cubes. What else could be served in such a spot but a mash-up of late-night bites and Korean BBQ staples?
We started our night out on the town with Best Friend’s buttered Hawaiian rolls, a complimentary offering that even a militant Keto disciple would find difficult to resist. Websites recommended the slippery shrimp, though I’d have ordered these anyway simply for the name – they sounded fun. Indeed, drenched in a tangy sweet sauce after being crisped to perfection, the shrimp didn’t disappoint. My BFF asked for the Kogi short rib tacos (part of the LA Sh*t portion of the menu), which she swore were amazing. Then, we were pleasantly surprised when a mix up in the kitchen scored us with a batch of on-the-house tempura (known on the menu as Frito Misto Rogers). Oh, what an evening – and about as crazy a Vegas night that this middle-aged lady can handle. Next time in Vegas, I’d really like to go back again to check out more on Best Friend’s playful menu. Located in the newish Park MGM, it’s easy to find. I’d advise making a reservation to make sure you and your BFFs aren’t waiting too long for a table.
And dang, I forgot my favorite part of the evening – my drink! You’ll have to forgive me. While my visit to Best Friend was months ago, I’m writing this while participating in Dry January, so I’m trying really hard not to think about alcohol. So hard, apparently that I failed to mention it in this post. My drank was the Watermelon, one of their Cool AF beverages. With tequila, lime, and watermelon juice, it was a tangy, refreshing little something to sip slowly and savor. Because it was delicious. And because it was $18, and I couldn’t afford two Watermelons at that price.
Best Friend at the Park MGM, Vegas