Neros restaurant at Caesars Palace, specializing in dry-aged prime beef, tender chops, fresh fish and seafood, boasts tantalizing American contemporary dinner selections for the most discriminating palates.

Neros Chef Marlo Capone, a James Beard Foundation nominee and alumnus of Lydia Shire's famed Biba restaurant in Boston, has created signature cuisine for the restaurant.

Some of the entrees are classic favorites, but none is ordinary, and each is artistically presented in the tradition of great culinarians. Grilled Lamb Chops served on Crispy Polenta with Baby Greens and Garlic; Grilled Swordfish served with Sweet Potato Puree, Herb-roasted Vidalia Onion, Pea Shoots and Lemon Aioli; Halibut pan-roasted in Lobster Oil served with Braised Baby Artichokes, Steamed Clams, Saffron Couscous -- the menu changes seasonally but remains consistently excellent.

Neros "regulars" enthusiastically recommend the crab cake appetizer, served with mashed avocado and garnished with paper-thin crisped plantains. Another favorite appetizer is the Carpaceio of Beef with Shaved Parmesan Cheese, Salad of Frisee, Fennel, Roasted Red Peppers and Truffle Aioli. A la carte selections also include soups, salads, vegetable side orders and desserts.

Like all Caesars Palace gourmet restaurants, Neros offers an extensive wine list, customized for the restaurant by the resort's Master Sommelier Barbara Werley.

Neros, re-named from the original Spanish Steps restaurant, which opened in 1979, evolved with its loyal clientele. Originally specializing in Spanish cuisine, the restaurant quickly gained a following for its succulent steaks. With the growing popularity of seafood, the menu was expanded to include a larger selection of fresh fish and seafood. Capone's arrival in the spring of 1996 heralded a veritable renaissance in Neros, attracting the attention of the international culinary community and delighting its Caesars Palace guests.

The romantic design in Neros restaurant is bright and contemporary -- an octagonal plan designed around an eight-point star radiating from a copper-baffled ceiling. Terrace seating affords a view of casino and shopping areas.

Neros is open seven nights weekly, from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. (last seating 10 p.m.).  Reservations suggested. Phone 702/731-7731.