TL;DR: Don’t visit Vegas without trying these essential eats!
- Decadent Buffets: Experience the endless culinary delights of Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace.
- Steakhouse Classics: Relish a perfectly cooked steak at Golden Steer Steakhouse.
- Gourmet Burgers: Sink your teeth into a juicy burger at Gordon Ramsay Burger.
- World-Class Sushi: Savor masterfully crafted sushi at Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge.
- Late-Night Cravings: Enjoy comforting bites anytime at Peppermill Restaurant & Fireside Lounge.
You’ve heard the stories about Las Vegas—the dazzling lights, the high-stakes gambling, and the wild nightlife. But for me, the real thrill of this city is its incredible food scene. It’s a culinary playground where you can find everything from old-school steakhouse classics to a secret slice of pizza. I’ve been lucky enough to explore the Strip and beyond, and I’m sharing my top 10 must-try dishes that define the Vegas food experience. Get ready to loosen your belt—this is your ultimate Las Vegas food bucket list.
The Ultimate Las Vegas Food Bucket List: 10 Iconic Dishes You Can’t Miss!
1. The Legendary Vegas Buffet: Bacchanal Buffet
You can’t come to Vegas and not experience a buffet. It’s a rite of passage! But to do it right, you need to go to one of the best. The Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace is the standard for a reason. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a world-class, all-you-can-eat spectacle with over 500 different items, including endless king crab legs, roasted prime rib, and a ridiculous amount of desserts. It’s a splurge, for sure, but the sheer variety and quality make it a worthwhile experience for any first-timer.
Also Read: Most Expensive Buffet In Vegas
2. A Classic Vegas Steak: Golden Steer Steakhouse
For a taste of old-school Vegas glamour, head to the Golden Steer Steakhouse. This place is a living legend, and for good reason—it’s been serving everyone from the Rat Pack to Elvis. While everything on the menu is top-notch, their Filet Mignon is truly iconic. It’s cooked to perfection, incredibly tender, and seasoned just right. For the full experience, pair it with their famous creamed spinach. It’s a classic for a reason.
3. A Gourmet Burger: Gordon Ramsay Burger’s Hell’s Kitchen Burger
If you’re a burger lover, you have to make a pilgrimage to Gordon Ramsay Burger inside Planet Hollywood. Forget a simple cheeseburger and go straight for the Hell’s Kitchen Burger. This isn’t just a burger; it’s an explosion of flavor. With asadero cheese, roasted jalapeños, avocado, and a smoked jalapeño aioli, every single bite is juicy, spicy, and perfectly balanced. The line can be long, but it’s well worth the wait.
4. Inventive Sushi: Yellowtail’s Big Eye Tuna Pizza
Located at the Bellagio, Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge offers a different kind of culinary delight with its stunning views of the Bellagio Fountains and incredibly fresh seafood. A standout dish that you won’t forget is the Big Eye Tuna Pizza. It’s an innovative take on a classic, with a crispy tortilla topped with delicate fresh tuna, shiso, and a hint of truffle oil. It’s the kind of dish that’s both beautiful and delicious, proving that you can find fresh, high-quality seafood even in the middle of the desert.
5. Late-Night Comfort Food: Peppermill’s French Toast Ambrosia
When the night is winding down, or you just need a serious dose of comfort, Peppermill Restaurant & Fireside Lounge is the place to be. This place is a Vegas institution, known for its retro, neon-lit atmosphere and massive portions. You can’t go wrong with their French Toast Ambrosia—thick slices of bread soaked in a sweet batter and grilled to a golden brown, then piled high with fresh fruit. It’s the perfect, indulgent bite to end a long night out. The Peppermill was also a 2024 James Beard America’s Classics Award winner.
6. “Twisted Farm Food”: Hash House A Go Go’s Sage Fried Chicken & Waffles
For a breakfast (or “anytime”) experience that feels uniquely Vegas, you have to hit up Hash House A Go Go. They’re famous for their “twisted farm food” and the Sage Fried Chicken & Waffles is a work of art. Imagine crispy, sage-infused fried chicken piled on top of fluffy waffles, often with a drizzle of sweet syrup. The portions are huge, so come hungry or plan to share with a friend.
7. Adventurous Eats: Wicked Spoon’s Bone Marrow
Looking for a more adventurous buffet experience? The Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan is an exceptional buffet, known for its creative twist on classic favorites. While the entire buffet is a step up from the typical, the Roasted Bone Marrow with bacon marmalade is a must-try for any true food lover. It’s a rich, savory, and surprisingly addictive dish that’s a highlight of this upscale buffet.
8. The Pinnacle of Fine Dining: Joël Robuchon’s Le Foie Gras
For a once-in-a-lifetime meal, there’s no better place than Joël Robuchon at the MGM Grand, which is the only three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Las Vegas. If you’re going to treat yourself to a lengthy tasting menu, the Le Foie Gras is a standout. This dish is an art form, a testament to the incredible precision and skill in the kitchen. It’s a meal you’ll remember long after you’ve left the city. (Please note that Chef Robuchon passed away in 2018; however, his legacy and restaurant live on with the same name and standard of excellence.)
9. Award-Winning Pizza: Pizza Rock’s Margherita Napoletana
Yes, you can get amazing pizza in Vegas. Head downtown to Pizza Rock, which is known for its award-winning pies. Their Margherita Napoletana is a must-try. Cooked in a 900-degree wood-fired oven, the pizza boasts a perfectly charred, chewy crust, sweet San Marzano tomatoes, and rich, creamy mozzarella. It’s an authentic slice of Naples right in the desert.
10. The Ultimate Hidden Gem: Secret Pizza’s “The Slice”
If you’re looking for a more casual, fun, and delicious pizza experience, you have to find Secret Pizza. Tucked on the third floor of The Cosmopolitan, this unmarked venue remains one of the city’s best-kept secrets. There’s no menu—just a counter with a few options. Grab a classic Pepperoni Slice and enjoy the bustling, no-frills atmosphere. It’s the perfect late-night snack or a quick, tasty lunch.
FAQs About Eating in Las Vegas
Are Las Vegas buffets worth the money?
High-end buffets like Bacchanal or Wicked Spoon are definitely worth it for the incredible variety and quality, especially for a special brunch or dinner. However, there are many lower-quality buffets to avoid, so do your research.
Do I need reservations for popular Las Vegas restaurants?
Yes! For most popular and fine-dining restaurants, especially on the Strip, making reservations well in advance is essential. Some spots, like the Golden Steer, book up months ahead.
Can I find affordable food options in Las Vegas?
Absolutely! While the Strip is known for high prices, you can find great food for less money by checking out food courts, casual eateries, and restaurants off the Strip. Many hotels have food courts with popular fast-food chains like Shake Shack, or hidden gems like Secret Pizza.
What’s the best time to go to a buffet to avoid crowds?
To avoid the longest lines, try to go right when a meal period begins (like when dinner service starts) or during off-peak hours, such as mid-afternoon. Lunch buffets are typically less crowded and cheaper than dinner buffets.
Is it customary to tip in Las Vegas restaurants?
Yes, tipping is customary in Las Vegas, just like in other major U.S. cities. The standard is 15-20% for good service. Always double-check your bill, as some restaurants automatically add a gratuity for large parties.
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