It’s always a good time to take stock of what’s new in dining in Las Vegas, because this expansive culinary scene is always growing and changing. One of the most exciting reopenings on the Strip is at The Venetian, where the game-changing Latin eatery Chica (702.805.8472) is back in business after closing for an extensive renovation and new menu launch. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, the updated restaurant now displays the design influences of Miami with fresh new art and finishes built around an expanded main bar at the heart of the space. New dishes reflect Chica’s long-standing commitment to diverse flavors and ingredients, including crispy Peruvian octopus with blistered Padrón chilies, wagyu beef quesabirria empanadas, baby back ribs al pastor, and a roasted meat parrillada with beef, lamb, venison chorizo and chicken.
A spicy new casual option also popped up on the Strip recently. The second Las Vegas location of Los Angeles phenom Dave’s Hot Chicken (725.229.7300) is now dishing up tenders and sliders at the Grand Bazaar Shops at Bally’s, matching the scorching heat and comfort-food satisfaction available at its drive-thru store on the west side of the valley.
Speaking of homestyle food favorites, doesn’t an indulgent bowl of mac and cheese topped with Buffalo-spiced fried chicken sound great right now? That’s just one of the signature offerings at the new I Heart Mac & Cheese (702.875.4566) on South Fort Apache Road, the first Vegas spot from the burgeoning franchise. You can build your own bowl from a variety of ingredients or opt for a customized grilled cheese sandwich at this smile-inducing, casual restaurant. Comfort food awaits!
Let’s raise the level of luxury by returning to the Strip to check out one of the newest openings at Resorts World Las Vegas. Caviar Bar (702.676.7936) offers a sleek and sexy environment in which to sample one of the world’s great delicacies, from Russian Golden Osetra caviar to Siberian sturgeon caviar and everything in between. Charcuterie, antipasti, cheeses and a selection of entrées like cauliflower risotto and wagyu beef with miso butter round out the offerings here, in addition to curated cocktails, champagne and wine.
Head north to the ever-changing Sahara Las Vegas resort, where Chinese cuisine is the latest addition to the dining portfolio with the charming and authentic Noodle Den (702.761.7000). Hand-pulled noodles and scratch-made dumplings are the centerpiece of this exciting new menu, in addition to Northern Chinese favorites like sweet and sour pork ribs, roast duck and Yangzhou fried rice.
Ready for something sweet? Head to the Arts District downtown and explore all the goodies at the newest location of Freed’s Dessert Shop (702.989.9899). You won’t find a more colorful and tempting pastry case in town, and this offshoot of the local institution Freed’s Bakery (established in 1959) is a perfect fit with the fashionable bars, restaurants and shops blossoming on Main Street.
These delicious destinations prove there is always something new to experience around town, whether it’s a culinary comeback, an exhilarating expansion or a brand-new concept looking to make its mark on the Vegas food scene. Time to start exploring!
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