MTO Café Serves Up Fresh, Healthy Cuisine In Las Vegas

On Saturday morning, instead of taking a hike or a drive to nearby Mt. Charleston, we made the decision to head to Downtown Las Vegas and spend the day in the cool, chic venues infused by The Downtown Project.

In just a few short minutes we were walking down Fremont Street and remembered quite a lot of buzz about MTO Café, so we decided to trek to South Main Street, where we finally arrived at our destination right across the street from City Hall.

The restaurant, accented by bright orange hues is open, airy, and full of energy in a laid-back, California kind of way. MTO is the creation of owners Ben Sabouri and Matt Moore of Shift Solutions, LLC. These two entrepreneurs created the company two years ago, as a result of their love for the restaurant and hospitality industry. MTO is a venue where locals and visitors can mingle and enjoy a unique breakfast or lunch. The culinary vision comes from Chef-Partner Johnny Church of RM Seafood and Rx Boiler Room fame. Church takes a fresh new take on comfort food making "fast food" healthy and fresh.

Manager Rudy and our lovely knowledgeable server Ashely took control as they guided us along our Saturday morning culinary adventure. Bloody Marys were in order, and MTO's Sake-infused version started us off the right way. A bowl of Brussels sprouts in tart cranberry balsamic reduction was a healthy and tasty appetizer. The Hen House Wrap featured perfectly prepared organic chicken with lettuce, roasted tomatoes, avocado, and creamy Caesar dressing in a  tomato-basil wrap. The dish was a delightful, palate-pleasing deal at $11. A rich grilled cheese on brie with local honey, toasted walnuts, brioche, and a side salad made for a simple lunch that reminded us of our childhood. This healthy take on an American classic cost $11.

MTO also makes breakfast to order available as a wrap, omelet or skillet. The MTO breakfast features three eggs any style along with chicken sausage, turkey bacon, spam, and bacon, a choice of wheat, wonder, rye or sourdough bread, and mash browns all for $14. Another great way to start your day is the chicken "in a waffle" for $13.

In the mood for a soup and salad? MTO has you covered. Enjoy a choice of tomato basil with grilled cheddar toast, baked potato soup with cheddar, scallions and bacon, and of course a classic French Onion with rich gruyere, parmesan, and provolone. The Strawberry Fields salad with arugula, blue cheese, strawberries, and red wine balsamic, is a must.

For a higher calorie breakfast option, check out the Fat Elvis, which includes French toast with banana, bacon, peanut butter, strawberries, and Nutella. After a long night, you could also opt for the Hangover Burger: a burger with bacon, fried egg, Tillamook cheddar, special sauce, and fries that will get you back on track to enjoy the rest of your day. For those with a sweet tooth the MTO mini donuts, fried apple rings, or walnut tassies are sure to please.

MTO Café is a fresh, new, healthy venue located in the revitalized Downtown area of Las Vegas. If you have a lunch meeting at City Hall, want a hot cup of coffee, or just to recuperate after visiting many of the cool nightlife venues, MTO Café will work in any situation.