Celebrate Sin City’s Culinary Heritage at These Iconic Las Vegas Restaurants
Las Vegas was founded in 1905 and incorporated in 1911. Its initial purpose was to act as a railroad stop between Salt Lake City and Los Angeles, but it didn’t take long for the city to sprout its own personality – a unique one. And while it eventually grew out of its ‘railroad stop’ phase, a new era quickly approached.
Today, Sin City is primarily known for its nightlife – they don’t call it the Entertainment Capital of the World for nothing! Between The Strip and the Fremont Street Experience, residents and tourists have their fair share of nightclubs, casinos, bars, and shows to choose from – there’s literally something for everyone.
With that said, there’s one thing Las Vegas doesn’t get enough credit for – its culinary scene, which is just as diverse as those who make up this fine city. Everywhere you turn, you’re met with an array of themed restaurants that are sure to please any palette – whether you’re looking for a chinese restaurant or modern French restaurant.
7 of the Most Iconic Las Vegas Restaurants
With amazing restaurants opening every week, it’s easy to get distracted by all the glitz and glamour that modern-day restaurants provide. While it’s certainly an experience you shouldn’t deprive yourself of, the city has so much more to offer, and you’d be remiss not to consider some of your more vintage options.
For those who want a taste of what Vegas was like 75 years ago, you’ll be pleased to know that some of the most iconic Las Vegas restaurants are still up and running today – and they still have that classic Vegas look and feel, so don’t forget to wear your finest tailored suit (dark color, of course) and Fedora hat.
Whether you just moved here and are looking for your new favorite spot, have lived here your whole life and are looking for something different, or are visiting and want to do your trip justice – you’re going to love what these iconic Las Vegas restaurants have to offer. Let’s see what restaurants made the list!
1. Top of Binion’s Steakhouse
Located on the 24th floor of the Binion’s Gambling Hall and Hotel is the Top of Binion’s Steakhouse. You’ll be served some of the finest Creekstone Farms Black Angus Beef with some of your favorite sides and appetizers at this vintage classic – which initially opened in 1965. It offers a romantic atmosphere with vintage decor and views of Downtown Las Vegas that’ll help set the mood – it’s a must-visit restaurant.
2. Michael’s Gourmet Room
Located inside the South Point Hotel Casino & Spa (just minutes from The Las Vegas Strip, but still on Las Vegas Blvd.) is Michael’s Gourmet Room – which originally opened in 1982. A classy, romantic, and intimate setting, Michael’s is known for its red leather booths and chairs, red floors, red walls, and red ceilings — it’s basically a red main dining room. They serve a great cocktail and/or house wine, which goes great with their seafood- and steakhouse-inspired dinner menu.
3. Bob Taylor’s Ranch House
What’s more iconic than being Las Vegas’ oldest steak house? Bob Taylor’s Ranch House, which opened in 1955, doesn’t have the appeal of being on The Strip or Fremont Street, but that’s part of what gives it its charm. Located in the northwest, there’s something about Bob Taylor’s that makes you feel at home – especially if you love steaks, ribs, pork chops, rack of lamb, seafood, chicken entrees, and other classics. It’s a must-see for anyone who wants to taste a bit of Vegas history.
4. The Golden Steer Steakhouse
The Golden Steer Steakhouse, which opened in 1958, is almost as old as Bob Taylor’s (three years younger, to be exact). The restaurant is located next to The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower (near the Las Vegas Convention Center), Golden Steer, which is conveniently located in-between The Strip and Fremont Street. It boasts a classic, vintage, and authentic Vegas experience that appealed to the likes of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and Muhammad Ali.
5. Italian American Club
More of a nonprofit social club than anything, the Italian American Club opened in 1961, and trust us – it doesn’t get more ‘Old Vegas’ than this. Not only was Frank Sinatra a member, but this social club wined and dined some of the city’s biggest mobsters and entertainers 50 years ago. If you want a taste of what life was like for the Italian-American community in the old days, you’ll feel right at home at the IAC.
6. Hugo’s Cellar
Located inside the Four Queens Hotel & Casino on Fremont Street, Hugo’s Cellar boasts a romantic setting that ensures all women are greeted with a long-stemmed rose. They offer a tableside salad bar, fruit dipped in chocolate, and a Continental menu with all of your favorites. The blue napkins, blue chairs, and blue-rimmed plates are a staple in the Las Vegas community – dating all the way back to 1973.
7. Chicago Joe’s Restaurant
Chicago Joe’s might look like a residence with a sign out front, but that’s because it technically is. Located near Zak Bagans’ The Haunted Museum and the Las Vegas North Premium Outlets, this Italian restaurant was originally built in 1933 as a Downtown residence, but was turned into a restaurant in 1975 – known as Chicago Joe’s today. It’s known for its cozy, unpretentious setting that gives off an Old Vegas vibe.
Il Toro E La Capra: The New Kid on the Block
If you enjoy the Old Vegas experience, then you’re going to love what we have to offer at Il Toro E La Capra. We might be one of the newer restaurants on the block, but Javier Barajas created this restaurant with Old Vegas in mind – combining it with his family, love for Italy, and love for Mexican-Italian cuisine.
Located just minutes from the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, Mandalay Bay, and Allegiant Stadium, Il Toro E La Capra is quickly becoming a fan-, tourist-, and resident-favorite in the Las Vegas area. If you have a craving for Mexican-Italian food (or want to try it for the first time), then check us out!
