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City Cast Las Vegas

Rob Kachelriess

, but some chefs and restaurateurs go above and beyond in Las Vegas, establishing culinary empires that deliver a variety of food in multiple locations — without skimping on quality.

 to the neighborhood dining scene. The chef’s farm-fresh Italian cuisine (and that bread!) at 

 helped establish the Arts District as a must-visit dining destination. He then set his sights on Tivoli Village with 

 (a larger dining room with Italian-American classics done right) and 

, which started out as a pizza and ice cream shop before transforming into a wine bar with food that punches well above its weight class. Back in the Arts District, Trees moved Esther’s into a larger location and brought in Ada’s to take over the old space. Down the street, the chef and his team run French bistro 

. Trees finally made it (almost) to the Strip with 

, a steakhouse on the top floor of the Rio hotel tower.

🥩 We’re keeping celebrity chefs at bay on this list, but making an exception for José Andrés, who’s been especially active in Vegas. 

 at the Cosmopolitan presents a loyal take on Spanish cuisine, featuring a wood-fired paella grill that’s a show all by itself. 

 is an exclusive, restaurant-within-a-restaurant that celebrates the chef’s love of gastronomy with just two intimate seatings a night. The Cosmopolitan is also home to 

, which serves both Asian and Mexican dishes (while resisting the urge to “fuse” them together). Andrés’ grandest restaurant, the 

 after moving from the Sahara to the Palazzo, while 

 shifts the focus to seafood inside the Shops at Crystals. The sleeper pick? 

, which combines Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and African flavors at the Forum Shops. A special $100 anniversary tasting menu (available through June 1) throws a little of everything your way with no choices to worry about — and worth it for the chilled yogurt soup and smoked lamb shoulder kleftiko alone.

🍸 Chef Oscar Amador turned a small Spanish tapas restaurant, EDO, into one of the most acclaimed restaurants in Chinatown before expanding the concept to the Gramercy with 

, which brought an Italian influence into the mix. Amador closed the original, renaming it 

personal, experimental take on Latin flavors

, which combines familiar elements (gin and tonic, anyone?) with French inspiration east of the Strip. The kitchen is in great hands under the direction of corporate executive chef Tayden Poha-Ellamar (a veteran of L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon) and executive chef Roberto Higuera. If that’s not enough, a new gastropub is on deck to open this year at the Gramercy in the old DW Bistro space.

 has only grown and gotten better under the ownership of Ivy Ma and husband Nick Lin. The Chinatown original was knocked out of action a few years ago due to a fire, prompting a 

 in Shanghai Plaza and later, the brand’s 

 at Palace Station. All three serve a spirited take on regional Chinese cuisine, from dumplings to crispy beef, under the guidance of longtime executive chef Bing Chou. The smaller 

 is geared towards takeout orders in Summerlin and Spring Valley, while 

 is more casual, serving beef rolls, soups, and other bites near Charleston Heights.

Some of our city's best chefs and restaurateurs prove it's possible to have quantity without sacrificing quality. 

Culinary Empires That Help Make the Vegas Dining Scene Great

The latest on the best and newest restaurants and bars in Las Vegas. We'll help you find where to eat, drink, and socialize.

Las Vegas Food & Drink

Food & Drink

. Not so much the sandwiches, but the flavor profile repackaged in unexpected ways. I even wrote a story about PB&J Old Fashioneds years ago for a defunct publication named Supercall (although the accompanying 

 was reprinted elsewhere). But my favorite place for peanut butter and jelly is on a good burger. Sounds weird, but it totally works — and the following restaurants agree.

, a locals-oriented sports bar by Station Casinos, has locations in North Las Vegas, Henderson, and the West Valley — and all serve the PB&J Smash Burger. The recipe has a spicy kick, thanks to a house-made raspberry-jalapeno jam. A pair of short rib-and-chuck patties get smashed on the grill for a nice crust while both halves of the bun are smeared with peanut butter and griddled until golden brown. The kitchen adds it all together with pickles and American cheese for one indulgent, delicious bite.

Whether in Silverado Ranch or the Northwest Valley, 

 has the P.B. & Jealousy, a favorite on the menu since day one. It layers a flame-grilled angus beef patty, thick-cut bacon, melted peanut butter, and strawberry jelly on a honey wheat bun. (Feel free to substitute a 50/50 patty — half beef, half ground bacon — at no extra charge for extra smokiness.)

The Ellis Island Casino is getting in on the act too. 

 just introduced a new menu that includes a PB&J Burger with bacon, cheddar cheese, and peanut butter jam with the crunchy kick of fried jalapenos. Wash it down with one of Ellis Island’s own craft beers. (I recommend the amber ale.)

 is best known for its pet-friendly policies, welcoming doggies to hang out with their owners on large covered patios with locations in 

. Bring your pup and ask for the PB & J Burger, which combines a half-pound burger with peanut butter, grape jelly, candied bacon, and havarti cheese with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.

Peanut butter and jelly is perfect on a sandwich, but the combo is even better on a burger. Trust us. 

Peanut Butter and Jelly Burgers in Las Vegas

Peanut Butter & Jelly Burgers: Your Stickiest Guilty Pleasure

Mother’s Day is Sunday — and it’s not always easy to make plans or find the perfect gift.

My mom lives in North Carolina, so I shipped over some fancy ice cream before learning my parents took an impromptu vacation to the beach this week. My package arrived yesterday. I think it’s still on the porch 📦 (Good luck dry ice. We’re all counting on you.)

If your mom lives here in Vegas, we’ve got a few ideas for Mother’s Day fun 😁

 at UnCommons celebrates Mother’s Day weekend on May 9 with 

, featuring tea service, bites, and a free mini-bouquet.

 party on Mother’s Day with light bites, desserts, and an interactive game. It’s free, but secure your spot via RSVP.

🎭 Entertainment and the Performing Arts

 performance by R&B group Spectrum & Radiance. You can also bring mom a day earlier to Reynolds Hall for 

, the Las Vegas Philharmonic’s season finale with new musical director Rei Hotoda.

 throughout Mother’s Day weekend. The stage drama by Juliana Noble explores the relationship between a mother and daughter living under the same roof.

always knows how to have fun with a theme, inviting movie fans to see 

 on Saturday for some Mother’s Day “pregaming” on Saturday. Stroll and sip through 18 wine tasting stations.

Mother’s Day Weekend Sound Bath with Horses

 on Saturday evening for those 18 and over.

The Las Vegas Science & Natural History Museum

 that’s perfect for all ages on Mother’s Day.

 hosts a Mother’s Day afternoon crafting session to learn about dark skies and nocturnal animals while 

 in North Las Vegas is serving coffee and sweet bread during a 

Two of my favorite restaurants are debuting new brunches on Mother’s Day: 

If your mom lives here in Vegas, we’ve got a few ideas for Mother’s Day fun.

Things to Do in Las Vegas for Mother's Day 2026

Last-Minute Mother’s Day Ideas for Las Vegans

Find the best of everything that Las Vegas has to offer.

Las Vegas’s Best

Las Vegas' Best

. Hello May. It’s promising to be a busy and exciting month in Las Vegas.

When Cinco de Mayo and Taco Tuesday fall on the same day, you already know May is gonna be 

. Learn more about the history of Cinco de Mayo, plus specials and festivals in Las Vegas in our 

EDC isn’t the only parade in town. The 

 parade is back, marching through Downtown on May 9 in honor of our city’s Old West history. You can further celebrate the past with the 

 exhibit, which wraps up at the Clark County Museum in Henderson on May 25. The Mob Museum has two special events this month: Jack Sheehan presents 

Deadly Sources: A Las Vegas Journalist’s Close Encounters with Killers

 ​ (presented by Jack Sheehan) on May 6 and 

The Lives of the Showgirls: True Stories from Mob-Era Las Vegas

 on May 21. Both are free to attend with admission.

“Star Wars” fans are so passionate, May the 4th (as in “May the force be with you…”) has almost become a de facto holiday. See the best movie in the series, “The Empire Strikes Back” the way it was intended — on the big screen — at the Beverly Theatre with two May 4 showings. It’s also a great excuse to cosplay with fellow geeks at 

, win a game of Empire Trivia at House of Blues, and get more familiar with 

, which has crafts, movies, and other ways to celebrate.

Have some words to share? Enter the Henderson Libraries 

. Submissions are accepted May 4-30 with “pathways” as the theme. The piece can be a short story, creative nonfiction piece, or poem.

Las Vegas Indian Food & Cultural Festival

Lee’s Discount Liquor Beer & Tequila Experience

International Food Fest: A World of Flavors

, which welcomes hotel guests for the first time on May 29. The casino floor and Giada restaurant continued to do business as usual during the transition and the rooftop pool has changed its name from Drai’s to Soleia. Expect the influence of restaurateur, designer, and reality TV star Lisa Vanderpump to expand beyond remodeled rooms and suites in the months ahead.

A big congratulations to French Laundry alumni Tyler Vorce who just locked down a lease in Chinatown for a brick and mortar version of Lilli, which 

 at Durango Social Club. Book a reservation for a multicourse meal or just walk in and sit at the bar to check out a menu of small bites. We’re equally excited for the May 1 arrival of 

 at the Sahara. The Caribbean steakhouse by Kwame Onwuachi is unlike anything else in Vegas. Even the chef’s cucumber salad at a 

 about Maroon, May the Fourth, and other fun this month in the latest 

 episode. I joined host Jesse Merrick and guest Melinda Sheckells to run down our favorite 

events, eats, and activities throughout Las Vegas in May

Your Guide to May 2026 in Las Vegas

May is a busy month with food festivals, restaurants, Cinco de Mayo parties, "Star Wars" celebrations, and more. 

Things to Do in Las Vegas April 2026

What To Do in Las Vegas in May 2026

It’s not uncommon to find a coffee joint inside a bookstore, mall, or even a casino here in Las Vegas. But we uncovered a few more secret-ish spots, tucked away inside unlikely local businesses.

, a Summerlin hair salon. Whether you have a hair appointment or not, you’ll appreciate the fresh-brewed coffee, featuring Onyx beans with fun creations like a PB&J Latte, made with peanut butter espresso and apricot syrup. A few options are more health conscious with protein powder, monk fruit, or date syrup.

 is a Southwest Valley bicycle sales and service shop with its own coffee counter. Java nerds will love the pour-over option. Just pick your own beans (locally roasted by Vesta) and give it a few minutes. The pastries, made exclusively by MG Patisserie, are excellent. So try a croissant or brownie. 

, which rents exotic cars and three-wheeled slingshots off the Strip. Guests are welcome to sip away on lattes and espressos while checking out high-performance vehicles on display. The menu is also big on matcha and “Red Bull infusions” 😳 Come by on Sundays when the party picks up with vendors, a DJ, and sports viewing parties.

 is a coffee shop inside a thrift store near Flamingo and Buffalo. Browse discount clothes, home goods, vinyl while saving a few bucks on coffee, which, like everything else in the space, is priced on the affordable side. (The Cuban Coffee is less than three bucks.) Those on the run can place an online order for pickup.

 inside Neiman Marcus at Fashion Show mall. Sure, you can enjoy an espresso or cappuccino, but the champagne list actually dwarfs the coffee menu. Cocktails and lunch bites are available too. No matter what you order, the best seats are on the patio overlooking Las Vegas Boulevard.

 is a mobile coffee bar that now has a location inside the 

 on the corner of Decatur and Oakey. Just look for space D-61 to enjoy a pan dulce and horchata latte while shopping for anything and everything from hundreds of merchants.

 The West Valley food scene is picking up in a big way. 

caught up with two of our favorite foodies, Al Mancini and Gemini Stevens of the Food & Loathing podcast, for a revealing look at why 

North Summerlin is booming with new restaurants

Can the Summerlin North Dining Scene Compete with the Strip?

We uncovered a few secret-ish coffee spots, tucked away inside unlikely local businesses.

Secret Coffee Houses Hidden Inside Las Vegas Businesses

Hey wrestlenerds. I used to be one of you — back when WrestleMania was about stuff like “Rowdy” Roddy Piper choking out “Adorable” Adrian Adonis in a sleeper hold. Teenage me would’ve loved what you get today: two nights of WrestleMania surrounded by days of official and not-so-official events. I'll let someone else 

 while I focus on what appears to be a new trend this year: booze-soaked drinking activities for wrestling fans.

🍸 One of my favorite cocktail lounges on the Strip, the 

 at 4 p.m. inside The Vault backroom speakeasy, April 16-19. You’ll learn how to make two specialty drinks (The Dirty Dom and Charlotte’s Flair) and customize a third one of your own. (Mine would just be an Old Fashioned, since that’s how I like my wrestling.) The price is $100.

 with WWE fans in mind (although anyone can appreciate this) April 17-19. No cover charge and no wristband necessary. Just roam between 10 bars and restaurants for $5 drink specials, which could ease the sting of those 

 💸 My advice: Start with a margarita at Cabo Wabo Cantina and take it from there.

 on Fremont Street has a $15 WrestleMania special that includes a slice of any specialty pie and a “Stone Cold Austin beer,” which I think means Steve Austin’s 

, but check with the restaurant for details.

🍷 Meet, mingle, and drink with former WWE faves during a 

 on April 17. The price of admission begins at $113 and includes a beer, wine, or cocktail at five stops inside 

at The Strat hosts a free meet-and-greet on Friday (6-8 p.m.) with Gunther. (For those unfamiliar, he’s the guy who 

). The event is sponsored by Wheatley Vodka and anyone who buys a bottle gets it signed.

 closes out WrestleMania weekend on April 20 with a viewing party for Monday Night Raw with DJ 

 spinning classic WWE entrance music. Cosplay as your favorite wrestler and get a free shot.

 will be packed with wrestling fans this weekend too. 

which local strip clubs serve surprisingly good food

 in between lap dances. [City Cast Las Vegas 🎧]

Is the Food at Vegas Strip Clubs Actually ... Good?

It's a big weekend for pro-wrestling in Las Vegas, and fans can maximize the fun with themed bar crawls and drink specials. 

Bar Crawls and Boozy Events for During WrestleMania Weekend

Drink Your Way Through WrestleMania Weekend

It’s April 15 — the deadline to file taxes (or file an extension, slackers). If you’re in the hospitality field, I hope the 

 thing worked out this year. If not, a few local businesses have discounts to take the sting off any bill.

🍕 To match the 1040 used to file taxes, you’ll get $10.40 off when ordering at least $40 worth of food at 

. The deal is good for the pizzerias in Boca Park, Henderson, and Spring Valley (Rainbow & Warm Springs), but not the one inside the Grand Canal Shoppes.

🍔 It’s not a Tax Day special, but this deal happens to fall on it. 

 (featuring a full half-pound of beef) every Wednesday to celebrate its 50th anniversary this year. The deal is dine-in only, good from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. with a drink purchase.

 gentlemen’s club is giving a free cocktail or beer to anyone who shows proof of a filed tax return … so bring documentation, I guess 🤷 A lap dance will cost you.

, which has five valley locations, is giving guests 

. (Use the code TAXDAY when ordering online.) You can also take advantage of the regular Wednesday burger deal, which comes with unlimited fries for $12.99.

 is honoring happy hour prices all day long and serving its Old Fashioned for just $10.40 👀 There’s also a special bourbon-glazed meatloaf available as part of the regular Wednesday night Supper Club series.

 now has three Las Vegas locations. The Tax Day deal for 15% off 

 will give you a free dozen (original glazed) with the purchase of any dozen.

 could be the right way to wrap up the day. The 6 p.m. event at the Student Recreation & Wellness Center is geared towards alumni, students, and their families, but everyone is welcome. Just 

 we don’t have to pay state taxes in Nevada 👍 

Tax Day Freebies, Deals, and Discounts in Las Vegas

 that are worth your attention, but sometimes an old favorite feels new again with a grand return, new location, or another big change. We 

 last year — and have a few more examples for 2026.

 was a trendy spot before it closed at the Forum Shops in 2012. It’s now back in Vegas at the Grand Canal Shoppes with a sharp, contemporary dining room and returning favorites like the spicy tableside Caesar salad and goat cheese baklava. I like the “omakase” steak dinner. Name your price and the chef curates a custom meal. Just make sure to include the crème brûlée-style corn on the side.

 started out as a pizza and ice cream parlor before evolving into one of the best wine bars in Vegas (with an overachieving food menu) at Tivoli Village. James Trees has now moved Ada’s to the Arts District, taking over the former Esther’s Kitchen space and expanding the chef’s culinary empire in the Arts District. It’s more of a full restaurant now, but the emphasis on wine remains strong.

 hosts regular free wine tastings, which we feature in our weekly events rundown — emailed to 

🥩 After years as the signature steakhouse at the SLS and later the Sahara (in an “old is new” situation for a hotel), 

 has moved to the Palazzo. I prefer the old dining room, but the restaurant is definitely positioned as the chef’s most exclusive, high-end destination, shifting greater focus to bone-in ribeyes, grilled over oak and priced by the pound. Go with the new Josper-smoked leeks as your side dish and customize your cocktail at the martini cart.

 was a pop-up at the Hard Hat Lounge for a while and now has its own full-fledged location in the Soho Lofts building. As always, Detroit-style pizzas are the specialty — rectangular with cheese that spreads out to the edges for a crispy crunch.

, popular with locals at UnCommons, recently expanded to Pahrump (yes, 

, which used to be the Pahrump Valley Winery. We also hear Amari is introducing a great, new chef soon … but we’re not allowed to share the details yet 🤐

 closed in 2023 at the Red Rock Resort, but the casino had a change of heart and brought it back after trying out a Mexican restaurant in the space. The rustic style and wood-fired pizzas have returned, but chef Jason Janson is having fun with comfort food, including a fried chicken bucket (with biscuits and dipping sauces) and fruit-filled handpie desserts.

🍷 After finding success at UnCommons, 

 Resort at Summerlin. The decor is similar, but the windows overlooking the lawn are nice and you can semi-officially bring your wine outdoors. The food menu is different (try the crab louie) and there’s no retail component, but the wine is great and the team is loose with pouring samples before you commit.

 — with a location out on the Strip next to Madame Tussauds. It’s the first with all-day breakfast and a bar. I spied a bottle of Bulleit and asked for a shot on the rocks. I was promptly told the booze is strictly for spiking milkshakes 😕 As usual, the staff tosses lots of extra fries in the bag, even if you order the ”little” size.

Sometimes an old favorite feels new again with a grand return, new location, or another big change.

Old Restaurants That Feel New Again in 2026

 has been a locals favorite in Charleston Heights for more than 20 years. You can’t miss the distinctive arched roof on the corner of Decatur and Alta, but the restaurant just unveiled a few changes.

Renovations include an enhanced outdoor dining patio, a refreshed Benjamin Franklin mural, and a new retro-style sign, while preserving the original at the Neon Museum. POP’S also debuted a food truck for special events and regular Saturday appearances at 

The name represents the “Pride of Philly Steaks” with the City of Brotherly Love well represented on the menu. Just walk up to the counter and order. The restaurant’s open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Some staff members have been part of the team since day one, including general manager Jose Hernandez.

POP’S was founded by Perry and Barbara Walton; North Carolina transplants who moved to Las Vegas, but loved the food and culture of Philadelphia. It’s been a family-owned business all this time and is now run by daughter Christina.

POP’S cheesesteaks are made with sliced Ribeye, locally baked buns, and vegetables brought in fresh daily. There are lots of options on the menu, but typically you’d choose between American or Provolone cheese (or if you really want to get crazy, authentic Cheese Whiz). Ask for the sandwich “wit” or “wit-out” onions. You can go with chicken instead of steak too.

The most popular cheesesteak is the #32 with provolone, peppers, and mushrooms. POP’S occasionally rotates in seasonal specials like the Holiday Hoagie ( sliced turkey with gravy, mayo, cranberry, and stuffing, layered with sweet potato fries) and a summer Lobster Roll on lettuce and tomato.

Fried sides are the specialty, so load up on mac n’ cheese bites, green beans, mozzarella sticks, and more. The coconut dipping syrup with the sweet potato fries is a nice touch. POP'S even has packaged Tastykake treats, which all Philadelphians crave, but is hard to find outside the Northeast.

 is an iconic spot that helps define the character of Charleston Heights, a neighborhood you might want to 

Visit an iconic, 24-hour cheesesteak restaurant that helped shape the identity of a Vegas neighborhood west of the Strip.

POP'S Philly Cheesesteaks in Las Vegas

How POP’S Got Vegas Hooked on Round-the-Clock Cheesesteaks

free performances by the Nevada Shakespeare Festival

, but what else is there to do in April — besides taxes, of course? 💸 We have a few ideas.

Forget Coachella. (It’s sold out anyway.) The Beverly Theater has 

April is a busy month in Las Vegas. Here's your guide to festivals, dining, art,  and more.

food

Culinary Empires That Help Make the Vegas Dining Scene Great

Peanut Butter & Jelly Burgers: Your Stickiest Guilty Pleasure

Last-Minute Mother’s Day Ideas for Las Vegans

Latest articles

Culinary Empires That Help Make the Vegas Dining Scene Great

Peanut Butter & Jelly Burgers: Your Stickiest Guilty Pleasure

Last-Minute Mother’s Day Ideas for Las Vegans

What To Do in Las Vegas in May 2026

Secret Coffee Houses Hidden Inside Las Vegas Businesses

Drink Your Way Through WrestleMania Weekend

Tax Day Freebies, Deals, and Discounts in Las Vegas

Latest articles

What To Do in Las Vegas in May 2026

Secret Coffee Houses Hidden Inside Las Vegas Businesses

Drink Your Way Through WrestleMania Weekend

Tax Day Freebies, Deals, and Discounts in Las Vegas

Old Restaurants That Feel New Again in 2026

How POP’S Got Vegas Hooked on Round-the-Clock Cheesesteaks

What To Do in Las Vegas in April 2026