Love it or hate it, Las Vegas is a required stop on several road trips. But Vegas with a purpose can be much more surprising than many seem to think…
Eat
– Lotus of Siam. By far the best restaurant in Las Vegas, if you’re not really into Las Vegas. Located on a dodgy strip mall, Lotus of Siam was brought to fame by Anthony Bourdain and Jonathan Gold who both adored its Thai cuisine. Closed for a few years, it is now back in action and busier than ever. Make sure to book ahead or start lining up at 5PM!
– Raku. The best and most authentic Japanese restaurant in Vegas — off the Strip like Lotus of Siam, but Raku is where all local chefs gather once they’re done with work.
– HaSalon. Eyal Shani’s Israeli restaurant promises a change of scenery in the heart of Las Vegas. As a bonus, a small enclave of the Miznon restaurant is hidden in HaSalon, with its world-famous roasted cauliflower.
– Bazaar by Jose Andres. Overpriced and unauthentic like most restaurants in Vegas, but at least with Bazaar you’re getting a real show.
– Mon Ami Gabi. Joel Robuchon, Pierre Gagnaire, and Guy Savoy may have fancy restaurants on the Strip, but nothing compares with Mon Ami Gabi’s view. With a stunning terrace facing the Bellagio fountains, you’ll feel like you’re part of the cast of Ratatouille and it doesn’t hurt.
Drink
– The NoMad. With a spiral staircase and books lining the walls, the NoMad has an old charm which is perfect to get an Old Fashioned for a night cap.
– Hotel halls. It’s hard to find a decent bar in Las Vegas, as most of them turn into nightclubs in the blink of an eye. So your best best is to hang by the most interesting hotel halls and casinos, i.e. the Venetian, Caesars Palace, and Bellagio.
– The Wynn. If you’re looking to get a drink while playing roulette, the Wynn has the best casino on the Strip, away from the crowds.
Do
– Akhob by James Turrell inside the Louis Vuitton Store at Aria. This is a secret art experience to cleanse your mind and your eyes, one of the best things you can do while in Las Vegas. Make sure to call the store to book as early as you can.
– Seeing a show. O by Cirque du Soleil is the most famous for good reason, but Love is a must if you’re a Beatles fan. The days of Celine Dion are long gone, but you should be able to find a big star putting on a show.
– Fremont Street. Old Vegas is a tad gloomy, but culturally interesting to see what the city looked like when Frank Sinatra used roam the streets.