Ritz-Carlton restaurant earns Four-Diamond award

Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2004 | 11:01 a.m.

A Mediterranean restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton Lake Las Vegas Resort in Henderson has been named to AAA's Four-Diamond List.

The Medici Cafe and Terrace was named to the prestigious list today by the 100-year-old organization that offers a variety of automotive, travel and financial services to its 46 million members. AAA Nevada has more than 300,000 members statewide.

"People love to look at guides like this when they come to a new city," said John Bonds, a restaurant critic who operates the Taste of Vegas Internet site and hosts a radio show about dining in Southern Nevada.

"Diners take these guides with them, they are their bibles when it comes to finding the best places to eat," Bonds said. "The restaurants aren't paying for those diamonds and the AAA is known for its objectivity. Being listed should positively help their business."

Four-Diamond restaurant winners are evaluated for dining experience, staff skill and atmosphere. AAA in 1937 began inspecting hotels and restaurants with unannounced evaluations, scrutinizing cleanliness, safety, ambience, amenities and service.

"Attaining Four-Diamond status requires attention to detail and astute direction," said Kelly Bell, approved accommodations manager for AAA Nevada. "Medici reflects this emphasis on quality and skillful performance."

Medici's pan-Mediterranean menu is prepared by Chef Jeremy Bearman.

The restaurant is one of five Southern Nevada dining establishments to receive Four-Diamond recognition, the second-highest rating given by AAA.

Other Four-Diamond winners for 2004 are 3950 Restaurant and Aureole at Mandalay Bay, the Eiffel Tower at Paris-Las Vegas and Michael's at the Barbary Coast hotel-casino.

The AAA Five-Diamond restaurant winners are Renoir at The Mirage and Picasso and Le Cirque at the Bellagio hotel-casino.