Eric Klein: Wolfgang’s man

Monday, Aug. 15, 2011 | 3 a.m.

Eric Klein is the executive chef at Spago, one of the first fine-dining restaurants on the Strip. The longtime friend of Wolfgang Puck chats with VEGAS INC about his restaurant and what Wolfgang is really like.

Describe Spago.

Spago is a very simple restaurant where we try to make a difference every day. We make you happy by making the best food we can. Wolfgang always says: “If you build something for the locals, the tourists will come.”

What’s it like working under the truly legendary Wolfgang Puck?

It’s a plus. I’m glad to be part of this team. He’s told me: “I don’t have to worry about the restaurant because you’re here.” To me, it’s our restaurant. He knows that because I’m in Vegas, I’ll do the best I can for everything. I’m a hands-on person.

What’s the signature Spago dish?

We have a lot of dishes that we’re proud of. I ask my servers to engage the customers. I want to ask customers: “What can we do for you?” If you’re sick, we’ll make you soup. If you have special needs, we can do that, too.