Eats of the Week

Heidi's Picks is a weekly selection of restaurant suggestions from Review-Journal critic Heidi Knapp Rinella. Price symbols are based on the cost of an average entree: $ = entrees less than $10; $$ = entrees between $10 and $20; $$$ = entrees between $20 and $30; and $$$$ = entrees more than $30.

BASIL 'N LIME

3665 S. Fort Apache Road; 255-2581

The thing we liked most about Basil 'n Lime was that the meats clearly were cooked along with dishes such as Tom Kha Gai, instead of being prepared separately and thrown in after the order was made. Such care also showed in the lively decor in shades of green with dark-brown furniture, and in such other dishes as Pad Thai, lemongrass prawns, sticky rice with coconut ice cream and a refreshing Thai iced tea. (4/30/10)

Overall: A $

COMPANY RESTAURANT AND PUB HOUSE

Luxor, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South; 262-4852

We think of Company's fare as starter food -- there's no culinary ground broken here, and nothing that would shock the palate -- but it's well-prepared, kind of comforting food served by a friendly staff. Worth trying: the fried mashed-potato sticks, Pig & Peas Mac & Cheese, miso-glazed eggplant and roasted chicken breast. (10/23/09)

Overall: B $$

FLAME KABOB

6540 Escondido St.; 868-9096

Mediterranean/Middle Eastern restaurants are in plentiful supply in Las Vegas, but Flame Kabob stands out for several reasons, including the taftoon, the homemade Persian bread that falls into the catchall "pita" category. At this casual, counter-service spot we also liked the hummus, lamb kubideh kabob and beef shish kabob platter. (7/16/10)

Overall: A- $

LOLA'S A LOUISIANA KITCHEN

241 W. Charleston Blvd.; 227-5652

Lola's would seem to be facing a triple threat -- the economy, a location where others have failed and a New Orleans theme that has failed still others -- but so far, things are looking good. And no wonder, with such skillfully prepared grilled oysters, bronzed catfish, chicken and sausage jambalaya with shrimp and an oh-so-rich custardy bread pudding with rum sauce. (4/9/10)

Overall: A- $$