Where do the chefs of Las Vegas go after they get off work? To the same place they’ve been going for years: Raku. This casual izakaya, just off Spring Mountain Road, offers food that’s actually quite a bit better than anything remotely close on The Strip, and at fairer prices. I love the homemade tofu … Continued
Yes, it’s still worth going here. Despite the fact that every writer and TV personality in the country has been here, you can still eat pretty well, but only if you give yourself to the kitchen. Hopefully owner Saipin Chutima or her daughter Penny will be there to answer questions. Look deep within the menu … Continued
The problem with Yi Mei is that it’s embedded within the heart of the Chinese restaurant vortex, out near the intersection of Jones Blvd. and Spring Mountain Rd., so you could literally spend all day walking up and down the strip malls to eat like a pro. I say go for breakfast (it’s only a … Continued
So if you’re in Vegas to eat, you’re going to have spend at least one or two meals off The Strip. Some of the best regional Chinese (and Taiwanese) food can be had just 10 – 15 minutes away from the casinos, along Spring Mountain Road and Jones Blvd. Shaanxi offers cold bites of well-seasoned … Continued
As much as I love eating Japanese food off of The Strip (in the Seoul Plaza, on Spring Mountain Rd.) sometimes it’s just too inconvenient if all of your plans are in the casinos. In that case, assuming the Cosmopolitan isn’t too far away, allow me to recommend Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill. This … Continued
While Lotus of Siam still gets most of the press’ love and attention, don’t overlook this Thai gem in the desert, about 15 minutes from The Strip. Lotus’ former Sommelier is running Chada, and I dare say, the food is certainly on par with (if not slightly more interesting) than Lotus. There’s no doubt about … Continued
Yes, all of the familiar dishes are here: the hamachi jalapeño, the miso black cod and of course, the assortment of tiraditos inspired by Nobu’s time in Peru. And while there is an older version of his namesake at the Hard Rock, the newer one at Caesars is a gigantic sushi-laden homage to the master, … Continued
The last thing you’re probably thinking, as you consider how to place your bet in the Sports Book at the Aria Hotel and Casino, is if you want pepperoni or sausage on your Neapolitan slice, but Five 50 can do it either way, and then some. From the team of Shawn McClain and Richard Camerota, … Continued
The Container Park, in downtown Vegas, is absolutely something worth checking out during the day, unless you’re stuck at the pool for some reason. This reclaimed park features a series of old recycled shipping containers, and while there are some stores, it’s mostly full of really cool, independent food vendors. Bin 702 is one of … Continued
Shawn McClain has essentially left Chicago, but my city’s loss is Vegas’ gain. Ever since he opened Sage inside the Aria, its been one of the most consistent restaurants in town, not burdened by trying to be something it’s not. McClain and chef Richard Camarota have created a warm, inviting space with impeccable cocktails and … Continued
There’s something about a casino that goes to the trouble of sourcing not only great restaurants (Blue Ribbon Sushi, Milos, Jaleo) but also cares enough to pipe in a killer soundtrack during the day, featuring some of my favorite alternative bands from the 80s. The rooms are cool, the location is prime and they’ve got … Continued