7121 W. Craig Road; 294-2899

This was some of the most amazingly tender, juicy brisket we've ever had, and the ribs and andouille sausage were right up there, too. The vinegar-based slaw was so tart it squeaked (that's a good thing), and we liked the black-eyed peas and rice, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, sweet iced tea and -- Oh! -- caramel-walnut-apple pie that was indeed heaven on a plate, as billed. (12/28/07)

Overall: A $$

THE COUNTRY CLUB

Wynn Las Vegas, 3131 Las Vegas Blvd. South; 248-3463

We thought $54 was a little on the pricey side for a steak, but if you're willing to foot the bill, The Country Club is quite a lovely spot to have dinner, with its vaguely clubby atmosphere and commanding view of the golf course. We also liked the starter of kobe beef carpaccio, salad of baby field greens with sherry vinaigrette, side of creamed corn with bacon and marvelously tender blackened ahi. (8/1/08)

Overall: A $$$$

THE EGG WORKS

9355 W. Flamingo Road; 368-3447

The Egg Works works as a breakfast spot because whoever's running the kitchen is creative when it comes to dealing with the basic egg. We liked the Works Veggie Benny, the California Crepe and a homemade banana-nut muffin -- and the kitschy/farmy/folksy decor of the place. (2/23/07)

Overall: B+ $

ORIGIN INDIA

4480 Paradise Road; 734-6342

We loved the service, atmosphere -- even the ease of access and parking -- at Origin India, but especially the food, of which we sampled the Dahi Ke Kebab (shrimp in garlic sauce), Lhasooni Jhinga (deep-fried patties of yogurt cheese), Murg Lehsooni Kebab (tandoori chicken with garlic), Gosht Dahiwala (lamb cooked with yogurt and a cashew sauce) and, for dessert, a carrot cigar. (10/6/06)

Overall: A $$