Tuna-raspberry skewers at Julian Serrano
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| La Cave’s In Vino Veritas room |
Bar + Bistro at the Arts Factory
Head to the Arts Factory in the heart of Downtown to indulge at the Bar + Bistro, where (just as its name implies) art meets food. Nosh on a mixture of traditional and innovative tapas in this intimate, dark-accented dining spot. Try the Australian grilled lamb chops with honey aioli and pickled shallots. 107 E. Charleston Blvd., 702-202-6060
Firefly
Firefly can perhaps be called a locals’ universal favorite for a chill atmosphere and food that never misses the mark; it’s the must-visit spot for all things tapas. The sleek kitchen and bar is famed for its live music and buzzing atmosphere, but let’s not forget its dangerously tasty sangria. Start with the mouthwatering bacon-wrapped dates that are so good they’re practically sinful. 3900 Paradise Road, 702-369-3971; 9560 W. Sahara Ave., 702-834-3814
Forte
This tapas-style affair offers a culinary experience that highlights the essence of Eastern European home cooking. For those hungry for a variety of foods, Forte brings to the desert of Las Vegas small plates all the way from Russia to Romania and beyond. 4180 Rainbow Blvd., 702-220- 3876; barforte.com
Jaleo
World-acclaimed chef José Andrés brings the genuine spirit of northern Spanish tapas and paellas to Las Vegas with the award-winning Jaleo, one of The Cosmopolitan’s see-and-be-seen hot spots. A show of croquetas served in a shoe, beautifully styled plates of bite-size morsels, and carefully crafted desserts are almost too pretty to eat. Almost. The Cosmopolitan, 877-893-2003
Japonais
Fuse European elegance with modern Japanese cuisine to get Japonais, a suave restaurant and lounge that highlights inventive sushi rolls and unique entrées. With light yet subdued décor in the heart of The Mirage’s casino, Japonais is a fun, charming location with a little bit of everything for anyone. The Mirage Hotel & Casino, 702-792-7979; japonaislasvegas.com
Johnny Smalls
Experiencing a post-clubbing craving for your favorite childhood comfort foods? Look no further than the fun food spectacle that is Johnny Smalls, located just down the escalator from Vanity nightclub. Indulge in tapas-size adult versions of staples like peanut butter and jelly and mac and cheese for dinner, or late-night on weekends. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, 702-693-4414
Julian Serrano
Experience Spain’s delectable cuisine without having to leave town at Julian Serrano, one of Vegas’s most authentic tapas hot spots. Just one bite of the celebrity chef’s creations from his all- Spanish menu leaves diners raving. With an airy architectural scheme and flavorful dishes, it’s a foodie’s dream palate getaway. Aria Resort & Casino, 877-230- 2742
La Cave
Nestled inside Wynn Las Vegas, Michael Morton’s La Cave is a chill wine and small-plates spot for celebrities and industry folks (check out the terrace). The cozy food and wine escape, headed by chef Bill DeMarco, features savory small plates that range from oven-fired flatbreads to delectable roasted beets, and boasts a vegan menu and huge wine cellar. Wynn Las Vegas, 702-248-3463
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon
From France’s Chef of the Century, Joël Robuchon, this one-star Michelin restaurant spotlights elegant French tapas with theatrical flair. Case in point: the decadent foie gras-stuffed quail and truffle mashed potatoes. L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon is truly a culinary zealot’s dream come true. MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, 702-891-7358
