🍽️ Picnic in the Alley is coming up this weekend — Saturday, September 21 to be exact. The dine-around, drinking, and shopping event takes over a corner of the Downtown Arts District to showcase some of our favorite woman entrepreneurs, chefs, and bartenders. We spoke to a few of them for a preview of what’s in store and their thoughts on the evolution of Downtown Las Vegas.
Christina Dylag of Velveteen Rabbit (Picnic in the Alley)
Christina Dylag, Velveteen Rabbit
Your greatest challenge as a woman business owner?
“The biggest challenge for me is integrating a style of leadership that is dictated by intuition. I have always made decisions that feel 'right' to me, rather than follow any strict or established rules. Others don't always accept what lies outside of the norm.”
Your thoughts about the evolution and future of Las Vegas?
“I'm very excited about our growth and potential! The evolution of culture outside of the Strip continues to expand in new and fascinating ways. We're creating a new identity around Vegas.”
What do you love about Downtown?
“I'm loving how multifaceted Downtown is becoming. From amazing restaurants and bars, to immersive theater, antique and skate shops, amazing coffee, and beyond! We have it all.”
Your go-to bar or restaurant in the Arts District (other than your own)?
“Main St. Provisions is always a favorite. Kim Owens is a living legend and I would die for the short rib.”
What are you serving at Picnic in the Alley?
“I'm doing a really fun cocktail with my sorbet cart in tow! The cocktail is Condesa prickly pear and orange blossom gin with grapefruit and lemongrass-infused honey, clarified through coconut cream. It's paired with a house-made raspberry-lavender sorbet.”
Whose food or drink are you most excited about sampling at Picnic in the Alley?
“Jammyland sounds like they have some delectable offerings up their sleeves. I'll definitely be making a pit stop at their station.”
Jen Taler of Market in the Alley and Akin Cooperative. (Picnic in the Alley)
Jen Taler, Market in the Alley and Akin Cooperative
Your greatest challenge as a woman business owner?
“My greatest strength is being a woman business owner and the unique perspective and resilience I bring to the table. However, the biggest challenge I face is the internal work required to sustain that strength. As the ultimate cheerleader, motivator, and sounding board for myself, I need to continuously find ways to grow and move forward. While mentors, colleagues, and accountability partners are invaluable, the responsibility to push through and keep evolving ultimately rests with me.”
Your thoughts about the evolution and future of Las Vegas?
“Since moving to Las Vegas in 2009, I quickly fell in love with Downtown. I arrived solo and spent my time exploring the area's antique shops, thrift stores, and coffee spots. The transformation from then to now has been astounding. While I’ll always miss some of the businesses that are no longer around, I can't imagine life without those that have emerged. The evolution of the city has been a rollercoaster, with its fair share of ups and downs, but it’s heartening to see local small businesses increasingly supporting and strengthening one another. The future of Las Vegas remains exciting, brimming with opportunity. The growth in the Arts District, the influx of new residents, and the rising tourism here have all contributed to a vibrant and promising future for the city.”
What do you love about Downtown?
“Downtown captured my heart as soon as I arrived in 2009. It’s where I’ve chosen to live, raise my son, and build my business. I’m inspired by the way our community creates, supports, and unites around shared goals. Witnessing my friends’ projects and the special things they build for themselves, the neighborhood is always inspiring. Downtown is a truly unique and vibrant place, and this community is incredibly special.”
Your go-to bar or restaurant in the Arts District (other than your own)?
“When I need a change of scenery from my office, Bungalow Coffee is my go-to spot. You’ll often find me there on Mondays and Tuesdays, enjoying a coffee and a snack while getting some work done. For a bar, Velveteen Rabbit is always my top choice. I vividly remember its opening day and the significant impact it had on the Arts District. It’s a must-visit whenever I’m out for drinks in the area. As for restaurants, Main Street Provisions is a favorite of mine. Kim’s fantastic energy and smile make it a standout, and the food is absolutely top-notch.”
What are you serving or offering at Picnic in the Alley?
“For Picnic in the Alley, Akin Cooperative is a part of the footprint, so you will be able to enjoy the store with an amazing popup with Lyres at our bar.
I will also be curating nine shopping experiences throughout the footprint with Market in the Alley artisans.”
Whose food or drink are you most excited about sampling at Picnic in the Alley?
“Honestly, I’m excited about trying everything! Each year, these incredible women deliver exceptional dishes and drinks. The flavors are always amazing and the passion and creativity behind each item is truly impressive.”
Dani Garcia-White of Yukon Pizza (Picnic in the Alley)
Dani Garcia-White, Yukon Pizza
Your greatest challenge as a woman business owner?
“I think I entered this business at the perfect time and place, there are tons of capable, confident women in our little food and beverage community that have paved the way, so I am thankful that my experience as a woman has been all in all positive so far. Really the toughest challenge has been playing nice and keeping my mouth shut around the handful of small-minded individuals that see women in our industry as less than. The politics of this business are very real, and I think navigating that specifically as a woman can be challenging sometimes.”
Your thoughts about the evolution and future of Las Vegas?
“I think the biggest shift we are going to be seeing more of is the growth and recognition of our local food scene here. For years the focus has been on celebrity chefs on the Strip, but people are starting to take notice of the small operators in our town that are putting out really, really excellent food. It's exciting to be a part of.”
What do you love about Downtown?
“I have lived in Las Vegas almost my entire life, from Henderson to Centennial Hills and everywhere in between. Nowhere else in town has as tight of a community as we have down here. Everywhere I go, from bars and restaurants, grocery stores, the gym, etc., I see neighbors, colleagues, customers, and friends, and I am always greeted with a friendly hello at the very least. I feel like a lot of other neighborhoods around town don't have that. I also love the variety of small local businesses down here, the diversity, and variety of architecture that's different from the cookie cutter shopping centers and homes you see elsewhere.”
Your go-to bar or restaurant in the Arts District (other than your own)?
“The Silver Stamp is probably my most frequented spot, but we really love to go all over. District Deli & Coffee, Vesta, Dig It! are all on the coffee rotation, Tacotarian, Casa Don Juan, and 1228 are some favorites for lunch, Garagiste and CraftHaus for the beer & wine one-two-punch, Liquid Diet for the most creative cocktails in town, Rebar for Trivia on Mondays … the list goes on. If I am out and about, chances are I'm in the Arts District.”
What are you serving at Picnic in the Alley?
“I am serving my take on Shakshuka, in pizza form. I take our pizza sauce and add bell peppers and onions, lots of chili powder, coriander, cumin and other spices, then we put a thick layer of that on our sourdough crust with feta cheese. We bake it off then add some fresh herbs, za'atar seasoning, and a sous-vide egg yolk sauce for that perfect jammy egg bite.”
Whose food or drink are you most excited about sampling at Picnic in the Alley?
“Honestly? Everything! I am in awe of the talent and creativity displayed by the women at this event. I don't expect to find a single bite that is less than stellar.”
Rose Signor of the Silver Stamp. (Picnic in the Alley)
Rose Signor, The Silver Stamp
Your greatest challenge as a woman business owner?
“Working in the beer industry, I’ve had to break through stereotypes in a male-dominated space. It’s been challenging, but it’s made me stronger and more determined to succeed.”
Your thoughts about the evolution and future of Las Vegas?
“Vegas is evolving beyond the Strip—more arts, culture, and local businesses. As someone who’s lived and worked Downtown for over 12 years, it’s so exciting to see the community thrive and grow!”
What do you love about Downtown?
“Downtown has this raw, authentic energy that brings together creativity and community. It’s where Vegas feels most real.”
Your go-to bar or restaurant in the Arts District (other than your own)?
“I love the Hard Hat for its cozy vibe and amazing food. It’s my Downtown go-to when I’m not at my own place.”
What are you serving at Picnic in the Alley?
“I'm showcasing a variety of unique beers—a true reflection of what I've brought to Downtown over the last decade.”
Whose food or drink are you most excited about sampling at Picnic in the Alley?
“I’m excited to try Dani Garcia-White's creation from Yukon Pizza. She’s been part of Downtown for years and always brings something inspiring to the table!”
Tickets for Picnic in the Alley, one of our top picks for things to do in September, are on sale now. City Cast Las Vegas producer Layla Muhammad will be there too, participating in a panel. Make sure to say hello 👋
