By Rachel Feinblatt By Rachel Feinblatt | March 11, 2022 | Food & Drink, Food and Drink Feature, Food & Drink Feature, Food & Drink,
Here's our list of the best Mexican restaurants in Las Vegas.
Best known for its bottomless beverages and spin on traditional Mexican dishes, ¡VIVA! elevates every plate, whether it be the chilaquiles, bottomless sangria and the signature ¡VIVA! flight. Chef Ray Garcia curates some of his favorite south of the border eats in this vibrant spot, decorated with Latin American-inspired design features. Implementing regional dishes and seasonal ingredients in dishes like chorizo con huevos, Garcia’s menu is simply delicioso. When in doubt, ¡VIVA! Las Vegas is always a good idea. 702.676.6020, eatdrinkviva.com; rwlasvegas.com
With a sensational menu crafted by Venezuelan-born celebrity Chef Lorena Garcia, CHICA gives its diners a taste of Latin America. Located in Restaurant Row at The Venetian Resort, this spot caters to the table’s taste buds, with an entire custom menu cooked on an open fire grill. Chef Garcia recommends the wagyu empanada or the baby back ribs al pastor, bursting with flavor and spice. While the spot may be open for lunch, dinner and brunch, CHICA Nights is where the fiesta happens, featuring live music, performances and craft cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere. 702.805.8472, chicarestaurant.com; venetianlasvegas.com
Whether coming for margaritas, rare tequilas or the restaurant’s No. 1 prime angus beef from Nebraska, Javier’s at ARIA Resort & Casino knows just how to satisfy a Mexican food craving. The high-energy ambiance of Las Vegas paired with the beloved recipes of Javier’s creates a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Diners near and far rave about the costilla de res, braised in a spicy tomato and Serrano chile sauce. This radiant spot transports diners to Mexico with its opulent wall art, authentic Mexican cuisine and unique Aztec chainsaw wood carving. 702.590.3637, javiers-cantina.com; aria.mgmresorts.com
Meet Casa Calavera, Tao Group Hospitality’s latest Mexican culinary endeavor in Las Vegas. Whether indulging in the main dining room or on the outdoor patio overlooking Virgin Hotels Las Vegas’ resort pool, dishes from this spot are something to “taco ’bout.” Don’t miss the trio of guacs, Mexican street corn and the wide range of tacos on offer. From start to finish, Casa Calavera radiates Mexican charm thanks to its unique murals, furnishings and bright marigold flowers that make for can’t-miss photo opps. 702.522.8000, taogroup.com; virginhotelslv.com
When opening its doors in 2014, El Dorado Cantina crafted its menu out of a craving for an authentic yet tasty Mexican experience. Founded by entrepreneur Darin Feinstein, this hot spot prepares regional recipes from Mexico using organic and non-GMO ingredients. Since a delicious cuisine like Mexican can be craved at all hours of the day, this gem is open around the clock, seven days per week and is always prepared for orders like the chorizo and eggs enchilada or the carne asada skillet. 702.722.2289, eldoradocantina.com
Encore at Wynn Las Vegas’ electric eatery Casa Playa curates spectacular Mexican coastal cuisine featuring sustainably sourced ingredients. Chef Sarah Thompson’s premium plates include the chicken enchiladas, Yucatan chicken pibil and the branzino a la talla. In addition to its delicious eats, Wynn’s expert mixologist Mariena Mercer Boarini gives her diners a taste of Mexico via curated cocktails while agave expert Noah Arenstein shares his expertise in mezcal and tequila. The bottom line: It’s always a party when Casa Playa is involved. 702.770.5340, wynnlasvegas.com
Fairly new to the Vegas scene but full of experience and recipes, La Neta Cocina y Lounge is an elevated escape inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Mexico, created and designed by hospitality connoisseur Ryan Labbe. Step inside its indoor garden or intimate cocktail lounge to enjoy fare from chefs Israel Castro and Lanny Chin, who utilize locally sourced ingredients throughout their beloved dishes. Don’t miss the BFT (Big F’n Tacos), which are true works of art that take inspiration from both the land and sea. And since the restaurant’s name translates to “the truth,” we can honestly say Summerlin has found a winner and a party since live DJs and bottle service are also on offer for its lucky diners. 702.476.5484, lanetacocina.com
Michelin-starred, James Beard Award-winning chef José Andrés envisioned a restaurant that would capture his travels through the vibrant street markets of Mexico and China. Out of an ardor for upholding tradition, China Poblano by José Andrés was born, offering tacos and noodles side-by-side in an electric environment. These are not your typical dishes—quesabirria tacos, caldo tlalpeño, dan dan mian noodles, and an array of dim sum all burst with international flavor. 702.698.7900, chinapoblano.com; cosmopolitanlasvegas.com
Photography by: Hana Brannigan / PEXELS