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City Cast Las Vegas

A cheat sheet for getting beyond your block.

For some, like City Cast podcast host Dayvid Figler, the Center at Spring Mountain, a plaza in Chinatown, evokes the old spirit of Commercial Center, with its array of offbeat shops and, especially, its variety of food options. A few of our favorites:

Legendarily rollicking Vegas grog shop, music venue, hepcat party zone, and tiki-themed Mos Eisley cantina. Whatever time you’re there, the night’s still young. The memory of my last visit is pleasantly hazy, but I think I ordered, and loved, the Scorpion.

“Mas Por Favor has a great menu,” says City Cast audio producer Layla Muhammad. “I got the slice of birria which was surprisingly big. We ate in the speakeasy parlor, which you definitely need a reservation for. Very cool space — but it gets a little crowded at dinnertime. The live music, fun drinks, and desserts make up for the tight squeeze, though. Tip: Beware of the food and drink minimum in the parlor!”

A pizza joint in the middle of Chinatown? “Well, in this eclectic strip mall, it makes total sense,” says Figler. “Now, some of my friends have already dubbed this high-end, gourmand spot with the custom wood-fired ovens as having the 

 pizza in town. It's certainly a contender. Garlic Butter Mushroom and Charred Green Onion; Fig Jam, Speck and Candied Pecans. This isn't a cardboard-box spot, for sure. A small but obviously curated menu, definitely a top food destination in an area brimming with options.”

Figler again: “From the minds of Makers and Finders comes this tucked-around-the-corner little coffee shop that’s a welcome respite from the bigger coffee palaces dotting the landscape. Here, you'll get your coffee fix right off the roasted bean and handful of pastry options, including banana nut loaf, fruit tarts, and matcha cakes. The bonus, for those in the know, are the handmade empanadas. But the real star here is how quaint and quiet (with excellent wifi) the space is. There's even a cute outdoor enclosure. A place to impress your friends just slightly off the beaten path.”

The Center at Spring Mountain is home to an eclectic range of food joints.

Our Favorite Eats in Chinatown's Center Plaza in Las Vegas

Where to Eat in The Center at Spring Mountain

Neighborhood Guides

Sadly, you can’t get tickets for this weekend’s Super Summer Theater showings of “Kinky Boots” at Spring Mountain Ranch, which close out the season (though 

 seats were available at press time). That shouldn’t stop you from heading out that way to sample the rustic charms of Blue Diamond, a small town suffused by the natural grandeur of Red Rock Canyon — and (🎧) 

possibly threatened by massive development

 in a rural setting. I’ll vouch for the breakfast pizza and the coffee. The atmo is comfy, and at this time of year the patio seating should be hella nice. Intriguing mix of people, too, with BD locals, Las Vegans, and tourists. You might even see former Clark County poet laureate Heather Lang-Cassera, 

 is a great introduction to the biking and hiking trails in this area. Don’t have a bike? 

“I adore tiny town post offices,” says City Cast Las Vegas lead producer Sonja Cho Swanson, and 

 meets her expectations for quaintness: “It looks like a little cabin, it’s so freakin’ cute!” Need to restock your nightstand book stack? The Blue Diamond Library has an 

. As you tool around town, buy a drink or a snack at the 

, and park yourself outside on the shaded seating beside the groovy Western mural. And because the surrounding landscape is so compelling, there’s some fine architecture out there, like 

, both designed by local architect C.J. Hoogland.

Cactus Joe’s is a longtime, beloved desert plant nursery — and more. Its seven-plus acres offer plenty of atmosphere to explore on a leisurely stroll, plus a gift shop, a wedding-slash-events space … and, now, 

Small town delights amid natural splendor.

What to Do in Blue Diamond, a Hamlet Just Outside of Las Vegas

How to Make Blue Diamond Worth the Drive

Mountain’s Edge is one of the valley’s newer edge-of-town ’burbs, and to those used to older, funkier parts of the city, it might have a fresh-from-the-box vibe. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t points of interest.

As we taper toward slightly cooler temps, keep 

 in mind. It comprises 80 acres of the 500 total acres set aside in the neighborhood for parks and trails. It has a light Western theme, facsimiles of a western town and an archaeology dig, plenty of trees and picnic areas — and one of the area’s true amenities, Exploration Peak. Up a nonthreatening half-mile trail you’ll find a shaded viewing area with spectacular sightlines overlooking the Strip (and nearly everything else).

Meanwhile, Mountain’s Edge Regional Park has a sporty aspect, with a climbing feature, sports wall, fitness stations, and kid-oriented bike town.

While you’re in the area, take the easy hike up to “

,” the artwork created in secret atop a neighborhood-adjacent hilltop — you may remember it got a good spin in the media early this year.

I’d just about walk from Henderson to Mountain’s Edge for pretty much anything on the menu at 

 — starting with the ceviche. And the spicy shrimp taco. And the — well, you get the picture. 

 is another local fave: “My husband and I find ourselves at El Luchador almost weekly for the cheesiest quesadillas (one with birria!) and generously sized burritos,” reader Trista G. writes. “Can't go wrong with a goblet of margarita or beer, either.” For a nice Italian dinner, there’s 

What Makes It Unique?

To many, Mountain’s Edge — one of the valley’s newer ’burbs —might have a fresh-from-the-box vibe. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t points of interest.


Don't Overlook the Las Vegas Neighborhood of Mountain's Edge

Don't Overlook Mountain's Edge

Green Valley is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and dig into a “boujie” suburban vibe. Here are some of the team’s favorite spots in the neighborhood.

Your regular newsletter editor says the bagels and lox at 

 are delicious. He also wants you to stop by 

 — they also have a cool tequila and mezcal speakeasy.

Our City Cast Las Vegas lead producer was a fan of chef Steve Kestler’s Guatemalan food truck and can’t wait to try his new restaurant 

. Sonja says you should pick up snacks from the 

 flagship location and go for a walk in their 

Our City Cast Las Vegas audio producer suggests spending a day at 

 — they have a “great spa, multi-level pool that is open to the public, good restaurant selection, and activities like pottery, movies, and things for the kids.” For the boba fanatics, take a trip to 

 and sip your drink on their cute patio. You can also sing your heart out at the new 

 — it’s probably the prettiest karaoke spot in town.

Our City Cast Las Vegas co-host loves coffee and suggests the original 

Get to Know Green Valley in Las Vegas

Get to Know Green Valley

If you have a DIY bent, you’ll want to check out Saturday’s 

 at the Clark County Library, at Flamingo and Maryland Parkway; it should zing with rampant maker energy. Because it runs from noon to 5 p.m., you’ll have plenty of time to poke around the area. Some suggestions:

No better way to ramp up your day around here than with a fancy coffee and a waffle from 

. My go-to sip is the pistachio latte. Nice, easy vibe, too — not surprising, as TIABI is an acronym for To Inspire and Be Inspired.

 is a chain — but I’m letting that slide thanks to its terrific sandwich menu and wacky stoner desserts. Never had a bad slice at 

, either. If you like seafood, there’s a Red Lobster — 

 But raw-fish fiends of my acquaintance say good things about 

This valley has seen a sad die-off of quality used-book stores in the last decade. But 

 bucked that grim trend, opening in 2021 and recently expanding. Great selection, with plenty of offbeat titles that should appeal to the sort of person who’ll attend a zine festival.

why it’s not so easy to write about Las Vegas

If you want to stretch your legs in high heat while looking at lovely trees, 

 has you covered. If you’d rather hoist a pint in air-conditioning, the iconic 

 is just around the corner. And if you just want to eat world-class Northern Thai cooking, 

If you're going to the Clark County Library, there's plenty nearby to enjoy

Explore the Area Around Las Vegas' Main Library

Explore the Area Around the City's Main Library

Unless you attend the CSN campus there or go deal-hunting at the 

, it can be easy to forget that portion of West Charleston Boulevard that’s not in Summerlin. Though showing its age, the area has pockets of liveliness. Let’s get street-wise:

Back when I spent a lot of time in this part of town, I frequently, and heartily, sampled the Venezuelan food at 

 — when I wasn’t chugging the yellow curry ramen and talking literature with author P Moss at 

Sofrito Rico Authentic Puerto Rican Cuisine

 have an opinion, let’s hear it.) And this street boasts two distinct microclimates of American fast-food: hometown favorite 

 in town, and, for all I know, the world.

Despite its status as a legendary Vegas grog shop and hangout for local characters, 

 couldn’t be more welcoming. Some of the best napkin doodles of my life originated there. 

 it’s among the dwindling number of Vegas joints open 24/7. 

 lives up to its name both with its reverent attitude toward its beans (and tea leaves) and with the big Buddha statue along one wall.

 begin outside, as you appreciate its gorgeous architecture. Inside are all usual resources, plus the quiet time and air-conditioning you’ll need to use them (see below for deets on an art show opening there tomorrow). 

 has a gallery, too, as well as events, classes, and a theater. If any of this moves you to be creative, luckily for you there’s a 

Unless you attend the CSN campus or hunt for deals at the Assistance League thrift shop, it can be easy to overlook West Charleston Boulevard. Don't.

Get to Know West Charleston Boulevard in Las Vegas, Nevada

The Overlooked Charms of West Charleston

The Winchester neighborhood is smallish — sandwiched between Desert Inn and Sahara, between Boulder Highway and the Strip — but it contains multitudes. That’s partly thanks to Commercial Center at its northern edge and the Boulevard Mall on its southern. But there’s plenty of richness in between, too.

, “quite literally a ‘hole in the wall’-sized, family-run Italian restaurant. Amazing food and the kind of service that you only get from the owners.” With its “incredible rum selection, (and) amazing Polynesian-infused food,” 

, meanwhile, is a Vegas icon whose relocation a few years ago didn’t diminish its charm. And reader Terri Hughes praises 

 in the Boulevard Mall: “They have a great food court with some of the most authentic Mexican food I have found here.”

 is a true community hub, with a brisk schedule of multicultural programming spanning genres: visual art, dance, music, theater, classes, and more — including a skate park. And 

 is a must stop for fans of contemporary visual art. For a different definition of culture, there’s 

. Good selection of beers on tap, too, we're told.

 as an Arts District alternative. [City Cast Las Vegas 🎧]

 serves Detroit-style pizza that routinely gets raves. Pretty good music venue, too — a great place to catch local bands, whether established (

) or on their way up. Plus tons of ambiance if you just want to chill.

The Winchester neighborhood is smallish — sandwiched between Desert Inn and Sahara, between Boulder Highway and the Strip — but it contains multitudes.

Las Vegas' Winchester Neighborhood Packs a Lot into a Small Area

Winchester Packs a Lot to Do in a Small Neighborhood

 southern I-15 and the western edge of Henderson, Silverado Ranch sits in the shadow of the South Point resort. It has a surprising diversity of dining options, and while the funky shopping options are limited, City Cast audio producer Layla Muhammad suggests a visit to the 

There’s plenty of dining variety in this neighborhood. Let’s start with Korean barbecue — 

 is just one of several can’t-go-wrong choices. Prefer Caribbean? 

. Maybe it’s seafood you’re hankering for: I hear good things about 

. And if it’s all-you-can-eat sushi you want, take it from me — I’ve downed an ocean of raw fish at 

 over the years, and their freshness and precise technique always impress.

Tucked just within the northeastern boundary of Silverado Ranch, 

 is one of the valley’s best java joints, with a casual, creative vibe and an almond-roca mocha worth the drive. If you prefer to brew your own, you can pick it up at 

, knowing that for every pound they sell, they donate a meal to a child.

, from bowling to the 16-screen cineplex, from dining to entertainment (this week: 

). What sets it apart is its expansive equestrian center, a mecca for horse lovers. (And don’t miss the statue of Vegas pioneer Benny Binion atop his horse, below.) Also fun: whiling away an hour or two amid the vintage finds of the 

Sitting between southern I-15 and the western edge of Henderson, Silverado Ranch sits in the shadow of the South Point resort.

Get to Know Silverado Ranch, near Henderson, Nevada

The Unexpected Charms of Silverado Ranch

 the record for consecutive days under 100 degrees, Southern Nevada is (or soon will be) up to its familiar 🔥🫠summer tricks. Time to break out the swim trunks, the sunscreen, and your cherished myths about 

 after a meal. If you welcome the heat with 

, in Rhodes Ranch — with its many slides, flumes, pools, lazy rivers, and waterfalls — here are a few ways to make it more than a one-stop trip.

 on the beginner-friendly course at nearby Red Ridge Park. Without major elevation changes, it’s an easy walk, and the careful landscaping minimizes the risk of losing your discs.

 Our own lead podcast producer Sonja Cho Swanson directs your attention to vegan Mexican food at 

, a beloved local success story. “I love their dorado, a deep-fried taco with tender, seasoned mashed potatoes inside — it’s like a taco met a samosa and had a baby.” (This is the one time it’s permissible to eat the baby.) Judging by the online reviews, the neighborhood loves the offerings at 

. Or up your post-splash culinary game at 

, with the “Top Chef”-worthy dishes of chef Jamie Tran.

 Sonja also recommends the “excellent” 

 — it closes at 3 p.m., so maybe swing by for a quiet coffee and light bite 

 plunging into the damp cacophony of the water park.

 With the proliferation of open space and trails nearby, it’s not surprising that a bike/coffee hybrid like 

 exists, to provide, quote, “fuel for your next adventure.”

Where to Beat the Heat in Rhodes Ranch

 a family that once owned the land it’s on, 

 comprises more than 600 acres. With 22 communities (10 of them gated) wedged into that space, you might assume there’s little more than residential property there. But as with most neighborhoods, the closer you look, the more you find.

 Peccole Ranch is green-belted with tree-filled suburban walking paths — including a section known as 

 thanks to the elaborate aviaries hanging in the trees. Also nestled within the greenways is an 

, said by people who know — my sons, who played it last week — to be fun and challenging, with the trees creating many “low-ceiling” shots.

 is a local fave — the Burgundy doesn’t refer to the color but to the actual region in France. Turns out there’s an award-winning French chef in charge here.

 as “an absolute must for a list of excellent pizza in Vegas,” and suggests the Sicilian style, the traditional New York style, and the Di Faro. And reader James P. Reza calls 

 “the most authentic Napoli-style pie in town.”

 recently earned it Best Neighborhood Restaurant honors from Desert Companion magazine. TheList.Vegas touts the mezze platter and roasted lamb at 

. And my favorite food authorities — my taste buds — are gaga for the bonkers array of 

 has some of the best art galleries in the valley — designed, they say, to Smithsonian standards — and they're usually smartly programmed with banger exhibits. Also, there’s a bunch of, you know, books and other media. It’s all housed in one of the library district’s most distinctive buildings.