Las Vegas has become a high-end culinary destination, rivaling the world’s best dining capitals with its collection of upscale restaurants helmed by renowned chefs. One needs not look further than the neon-lit marquees of the Strip to find the crème de la crème of fine dining. French cuisine takes center stage at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, while Picasso transports guests to Spain between bites of seafood and sips of tempranillo. Decadence reigns supreme at Le Cirque, with its Versailles-inspired decor and classic French fare. Craving the perfect cut of Wagyu beef? SW Steakhouse sources from the finest ranches globally, served amid Lake of Dreams’ dancing fountains.
To be crystal clear, there’s never a Vegas buffet on a Pursuitist list. Ever. Or any “celebrity chefs” from Food Network. We have no place for Gordon Ramsey or Guy Fieri, albeit fine gentlemen, on our guide of “fancy” Vegas restaurants.
Indeed, it’s time to evolve our thinking. Las Vegas has transformed. This city now proudly stands as a culinary tour de force. Come, join us on this journey and discover that Vegas is far more than just glitzy shows and neon lights; it’s a gastronomic haven waiting to satiate your epicurean desires.
As the ultimate luxury travel insider, Pursuitist has dined across the globe. But right on the Las Vegas Strip, we’ve discovered these top 5 restaurants that rival the world’s best for cuisine, service, and ambiance. So leave the casino floor, cash in your chips, and step into the glitz and glamour of Vegas’ finest restaurants:
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon
Introduction and Location
In the heart of the glitzy MGM Grand, amidst the clang of slot machines and the shimmering casino floor, lies a sanctuary of epicurean delight – L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon. This exclusive establishment, a product of Joël Robuchon‘s culinary genius, offers an intimate counter dining experience. Its sleek black and red decor, coupled with an open kitchen, enables diners to observe and admire the culinary artistry firsthand. The mood is vibrant yet sophisticated, reflecting the allure of its namesake city, Paris.
Key Details
- Signature dishes: Le Caviar Imperial, La Caille caramelized free-range quail
- Price range: $$$$
- Notable mention: La Langoustine, a truffled langoustine ravioli, is an absolute must-try.
- Celebrity Sightings: A-listers such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Aniston have enjoyed the culinary marvels here.
Picasso
Introduction and Location
At the legendary Bellagio, an artistic journey awaits at Picasso. This stunning restaurant exudes a gallery-like ambiance with original Picasso masterpieces gracing its walls. Intricately crafted Spanish and French dishes, paying homage to the artist’s homelands, are served against the backdrop of beautifully designed interiors reminiscent of a European chateau. With large windows providing captivating views of the Fountains of Bellagio, Picasso offers a visual and culinary feast alike.
Key Details
- Signature dishes: Roasted U10 Maine Scallops, Sautéed Langoustines
- Price range: $$$$
- Notable mention: The rotating menu is designed to celebrate the seasons, ensuring that only the freshest ingredients make it to your plate.
- Celebrity Sightings: The restaurant’s sublime experience has attracted connoisseurs like Matt Damon and Lady Gaga.
Le Cirque
Introduction and Location
Residing in the extravagant Bellagio Hotel and Casino, Le Cirque presents a circus-themed experience unlike any other. This upscale French restaurant’s whimsical decor — dominated by vibrant colors, playful murals, and rich fabrics — emulates a luxury circus tent. The ambience is joyously decadent, celebrating the magic and spectacle of the circus while offering a unique, theatrical fine dining experience.
Key Details
- Signature dishes: Lobster Salad “Le Cirque”, Rabbit Symphony
- Price range: $$$$
- Notable mention: Their extensive wine list is as dazzling as their menu, boasting over 900 international selections.
- Celebrity Sightings: Le Cirque’s mesmerizing charm has attracted notable personalities such as George Clooney and Julia Roberts.
SW Steakhouse
Introduction and Location
Immerse yourself in a genuine American steakhouse experience at SW Steakhouse, located at Wynn Las Vegas. Classic elegance blends with contemporary flair in the decor, featuring warm wood tones, amber lighting, and sweeping views of the Lake of Dreams. As the tantalizing aroma of prime-aged steaks and chops fill the air, guests can watch as the lake comes alive with a magical performance of music and multimedia.
Key Details
- Signature dishes: Chili Rubbed Double Rib Eye, Authentic Japanese Kobe
- Price range: $$$$
- Notable mention: Their signature root beer cake is an unexpectedly delightful way to end your meal.
- Celebrity Sightings: Hollywood stars such as Brad Pitt and Scarlett Johansson have been spotted savoring the prime cuts here.
Michael Mina
Introduction and Location
Nestled within the Bellagio’s opulent setting, Michael Mina offers a delightful interplay of culinary craftsmanship and coastal cuisine. The decor, dominated by blues and golds, echoes the restaurant’s affinity for the sea. Floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the restaurant in natural light, enhancing the gleaming marble surfaces and artistic glass installations. This Michelin-starred restaurant’s ambiance effortlessly mirrors the elegance and freshness of its seafood-focused menu.
Key Details
- Signature dishes: Caviar Parfait, Lobster Pot Pie
- Price range: $$$$
- Notable mention: Their signature “Trio of Duck” is an absolute standout, offering three unique preparations of this succulent bird.
- Celebrity Sightings: Celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Beyoncé have been known to relish the exquisite seafood here.
Beyond slot machines and stage shows, Las Vegas offers an unparalleled collection of upscale restaurants. World-renowned chefs bring their culinary ingenuity to create one-of-a-kind dining experiences ranging from L’Atelier’s intimate counters to Le Cirque’s lavish grand dining room. With sophistication equaling the world’s culinary capitals, the top eateries allow you to savor culinary art between hands of blackjack. Our guide uncovers these celebrated dining rooms at their best, from the fresh seafood at Picasso to SW Steakhouse’s extensive cuts of Wagyu beef. When only the very best will do, these restaurants satisfy even the most discerning palates with superlative cuisine and service.
In Las Vegas, the thrill of fine dining has hit the jackpot.
