And First, We Brunch

Brunches in the Vegas Valley come and go, and one of the more recent additions is at locals resort Sunset Station, where Pasta Cucina recently introduced a new brunch on the first Sunday of every month (next is March 5).

Pasta Cucina is a charming Italian restaurant fashioned as a patio garden, with string lights twisting through trees and over trellises.

Once you’re seated, order a craft cocktail or a bottomless mimosa, a cherished Vegas tradition. The bread basket comes in two sizes, but hey, go big and enjoy muffins, croissants, lemon loaf and other goodies to whet your appetite. The simply named tomato toast piles whipped ricotta, Campari tomatoes, lemon zest and balsamic vinegar on slices of crunchy bread for a perfect light and bright starter. Other shareable options include the antipasti board in two sizes, and flatbreads. The pancetta and egg Florentine flatbread option, with Parmesan cream sauce, pancetta, a sunny-side up egg and spinach, is reminiscent of a traditional bacon, eggs and gravy over biscuits breakfast, but elevated in a very delicious way.

There are actually several egg dishes available, from the Pasta Cucina omelet, loaded with Italian sausage, veggies and mozzarella, to an egg-white frittata with a huge dollop of crème fraîche on top. Lemon and blueberry ricotta pancakes are soft, with ricotta between each layer. Chicken and waffles mean hand-breaded tenders, while brioche French toast gets a flavor boost with fresh strawberries and diplomat cream. Better get your reservation in now! –Nina King

Sunset Station, sunsetstation.com