A concept from San Francisco that is currently expanding via franchising, Marufuku offers Hakata-style Tonkotsu ramen and Chicken Broths plus Cocktails and Appetizers in a lengthy space at The Bend in Southwest Las Vegas.
Co-founded by Eiichi Mochizuki and Koji Kikura, a name also involved with Mochizuki as well as Shabuway, guests will quickly notice wood and laminate akin to David Chang’s original Momofuku while tatted severs prone to using terms like “boss” or “chief” pass the vibe check.
Arbitrarily using “Ramen” to describe Noodle Soup, though neither bowl selected contained springy Wheat Noodles, Marufuku’s starters consist of everything from Fried Chicken and Edamame to slightly overcooked Pot Stickers and fluffy Octopus Balls beneath a liberal shaving of Katsuobushi.
Waiting no more than fifteen minutes for Soup, medium-size portions at fair prices in artisan bowls, Hakata Tonkotsu finds Broth appropriately rich while Chashu trends lean and for those who like it hot the “Chili-flavored Ground Chicken” adds a whole lot of spice to TanTan Men featuring thicker Udon.
LOADED SHEET PAN NACHOS – beef birria, tortilla chips, cheddar, cotija, jalapeños, pico de gallo, sour cream, queso, salsa verde
SMASH BURGER SLIDERS – red onion jam, secret sauce, house cheese sauce
QUESO BLANCO – tortilla chips, salsa
KALBI SHORT RIB TACOS – bao buns, kimchi slaw, Asian aioli
PEPPERONI FLATBREAD – pizza sauce, cup and char pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, chili garlic crisp
Begun as a driving range by two brothers in 2000 Topgolf has since spawned ninety-seven locations across America, the Las Vegas version on Koval Lane near MGM part of Sin City’s diverse entertainment options ever since late-Spring of 2016.
A destination for all-ages and skill levels, two decks and 120 covered bays at a variety of price-points welcoming would-be guests as early as 9am daily, Saturday evening found peak time abated by 25% off for locals to a tune of two hours and fun games including Sonic the Hedgehog and Angry Birds plus more traditional long-drive competitions.
Popular for date-night, a central Bar mixing Cocktails including a sweet Espresso Martini served adjacent pitchers of Beer, sports play on screens at all angles while music overhead ranges pop and hip-hop from the 80’s till now.
Easily booked online, free parking just outside an added perk, warm-up shots slowly grew straighter and longer as a Jumbo Pretzel surrounded by Charcuterie set the tune for competent yet pricey Bar Food.
Executing Nachos fairly well, though the “Birria” was essentially a wad of shredded Beef on top, “Smash Burger” Sliders are neither pressed nor crispy on the edges while Kalbi Short Rib Tacos found the “shells” of Bao far less fluffy than they ought to be.
Quickly waching Queso coagulate, the fact that Beer pitchers have a central chiller but Cheese can’t be kept warm telling of priorities, Flatbreads prove to be a standout thanks to good Crust cooked crisp beneath melted Cheese and charred Pepperoni.
Unquestionably Las Vegas’ top choice for French Pastry for nearly 10 years Rosallie Le French Café continues to show well on-site or to-go, a Wednesday morning delivery finding Pastries carefully arranged with several old favorites including an exceptional Raspberry Almond Croissant.
Last visited Summer of 2024 Friendly Donut House remains a Henderson staple for good reason, opening hours as early as 4:00am daily finding shelves full of fried Dough paired to pleasant customer service.
The sort of place built for Veterans to linger over Coffee, a strip-mall on South Boulder Highway playing host to regulars for decades, fans of classics will find lightly fried Yeast rings beneath Glaze while those who favor Cake can choose Vanilla or Chocolate with Sprinkles, Cinnamon Crumble or plain.
Also offering Longjohns and squared-Bismarcks, the later piped with Cream or Custard, Buttermilk Bars are textbook thanks to penetrant Sugar plus Icing in a variety of flavors while the Bear Claw and Apple Fritter are easily Sin City’s best and well-worth the drive, cost and calories thanks to the golden exterior and Cinnamon-spiced Fruit inside.
Beef and King Oyster Mushrooms in Black Pepper Sauce
Bean Curd Noodles & Shrimp in XO Sauce
Curry Seafood
Now expanded to Dallas, Plano and the Southwest Vegas Valley 4 years after opening, despite growing competition, it was as a party of five that diners enjoyed an outstanding meal from ShangHai Taste on Monday evening.
Tucked inside Suite 130 of a complex on Rainbow Boulevard it is upon entry that eyes are immediately drawn to Chinese-born Chefs working inside the restaurant’s glass prep-room, and with Chef Jimmy Li’s time at 3 Villages, 1900 Asian Cuisine and Niu Gu well-known to fans the fact that everything on-site is made from scratch should come as no surprise.
Seating approximately 60 guests from 11:00am until 9:00pm seven-days-a-week it was with warm greetings that twenty-two items were received, many old favorites but also all-new Seafood Curry and Crispy Fried Pork Chops.
Affordable without skimping on Ingredients, all thanks to Chef Li and Joe Muscaglione’s dedication, a distinctive feel is ensured by the fact that almost every single item on-site is imported from or near Shanghai, and starting with Soup Dumplings, or XLB, fans will be happy to know ShangHai Taste’s set a high standard whether made with Pork, Shrimp, Crab or Beef.
Able to accommodate most dietary preferences, fried Soup Dumplings in two varieties a winner to all but vegans, those eschewing all Animal products will likely gravitate to green Dumplings, though even more interesting bites are found in the form of Cold Bean Curd Noodles slicked in Scallion Oil or springy Kao Fu.
Built on family recipes handed down to Chef Li, his Fat Noodles with choice of Protein always a crowd-pleaser, Dumplings taste wonderful with or without spicy Oil or Soy while Fried Rice or Rice Cakes rival the best in town.
Located inside Tuscany Suites & Casino it was in celebration of Mother’s Day that five guests sat down at Bistecca, a rebrand of Tuscany Gardens that still features upscale Italian Cuisine plus weekend Brunch plus occasional live performances such as Saturday’s free concert from songwriter and author David Gans in a room full of Deadheads.
The signature Restaurant of a nearly twenty-five year old Resort, easy to overlook given its off-Strip location, diners are invited to enjoy a concise menu of classics like Eggs and Bacon as well as more innovative ideas including plump Shrimp atop Cornmeal subtly spicy from Calabrian Sausage.
Excluding the menu’s Dutch Baby on a busy morning, even though most tables appeared to be lingering well past two hours for the music, alternative sweets included complimentary Banana Bread and Almond Butter Toast with Honey plus Bardot-thick French Toast tilted Italian by Cherry Amaretto Syrup.
Executing both Breakfast Potatoes and Fries well, plus “Overnight Oats” with tons of complexity, Bistecca’s eponymous Burger cooked Medium-rare was juicy and rich beneath fresh produce, Bacon Jam and aged Cheddar.
Family owned and operated from the start, Dominic Sang bringing family recipes from a Texas Doughnuttery to Sin City in October 2015, guests entering Glaze Doughnuts will notice little has since changed about the shop in nearly a decade while their soft base and creative toppings earn “Best of Las Vegas” accolades annually.
Located on Fort Apache Road, fair prices and friendly service undoubtedly part of Glaze’s appeal, what the shop lacks in selection is more than made up for in quality compared to the likes of Dunkin, Krispy Kream or other spots nearby.
Largely built on Yeast Rings, though undersized Fritters perform admirably, fans of simplicity will find Maple Frosting far more subtle than most while Chocolate and Vanilla Glaze are also of excellent quality with or without additions such as Cereal or Candy.
Not over-the-top, but balanced and complex, Caramel and Pecan dazzle atop a fluffy leavened base while Peanut Butter and Oreo do the same, though if one is seeking Glaze’s top choice the decision comes down to Blueberry Cinnamon Toast, Churros and Horchata or Matcha Green Tea Pistachio that delivers sweetness beneath toasty notes.
VINE-RIPENED HEIRLOOM TOMATO SALAD, burrata cheese, red onion, balsamic vinegar, fresh basil, extra virgin olive oil
16oz Creekstone Farms Dry-aged PRIME BONELESS RIBEYE / 16oz Creekstone Farms Wet-aged PRIME BONELESS NEW YORK STRIP / 6oz CERTIFIED PIEDMONTESE PETITE FILET MIGNON
20oz KUROBUTA PORK CHOP, herb jus, Pan Seared Scallops
POTATO CROQUETTES, cheddar cheese, sour cream, smoked apple bacon
HAND CUT SEA SALT STEAK FRIES
ANSON MILLS GRITS, smoked apple bacon jam, cheddar cheese
Renovated in 2020, a good decade shaved off the venerable Restaurant Row destination, Delmonico has already withstood the test of time and at nearly twenty-six years old a recent visit suggests the Steakhouse continues to carry on a proud tradition with great service and all the classics.
Now under the direction of Chef Ivan Rojas, he and Culinary Director Ronnie Rainwater’s driving the local centerpiece of Lagasse’s empire, it was as a group of six that seating was offered at the Chef’s Table while the main room remained bustling all night long.
Again presented as a family-style tasting, this time with Sommelier-suggested beverages and music playing softly, it was beginning with Champagne that snacks were served, Delmonico’s iconic Truffle and Parmesan Potato Chips crisp and oilless while Deviled Eggs danced beneath reserve Caviar.
Updating the menu seasonally, and additionally giving Chef Rojas a chance to showcase his skills, Appetizers found themselves inclusive of Emeril’s BBQ Shrimp and thick-cut Bacon while Crab Cakes and Chef Rainwater’s Wilted Spinach with Poached Eggs and Praline Bacon each deserve mention alongside Las Vegas’ best versions.
Not forgetting Popovers, just one considering the bounty upcoming, additional starters saw the tableside preparation of Baked Cheese plus seared Foie Gras sandwiched between Pistachio Cookies with market Berries.
Moving onto entrees, three Prime Steaks showcasing the difference between dry and wet aging, sides trend classic with the exception of Croquettes prepared in the style of a loaded Baked Potato while the Pork Chop and off-menu Rabbit Porchetta are unsurpassed anywhere in Sin City.
Tantalizing with textures to this point, and continuing as such with Dessert, not a word needs to be said about Emeril’s incomparable Banana Cream Pie besides “order it” while the Pecan Pie, Tiramisu and Chocolate Bombe are each also enjoyable.
Located in the shadow of Southern Hills Hospital Leafs and Grounds opened at the end of 2022, their popularity slowly growing by word of mouth attesting to Sin City’s best Scones and a locally grown feel that taps into Pacific Northwest Coffee culture.
A novelty in Las Vegas, the shop slowing things down compared to Dutch Bros or Starbucks and doing things their own way without a slew of influencers, guests arriving Tuesday through Sunday from 6am until 3pm will find a family owned spot with plenty of room to linger, work, and read.
Using Lavazza for a variety of Lattes and specialty Coffees, a proper grinder and Espresso machine attesting to doing things the right way, Pastries are made on-site by the Mother and children with Empanadas fully loaded beneath a golden shell while Danishes are so flaky that a fork and plate are mandatory.
Onward to Scones, flavors announced daily on Instagram, suffice it to say these aren’t the typical British rounds in need of Clotted Cream or Jam, but rather something like a layered Southern Biscuit loaded with Butter and complex flavors ranging from Mocha to Coconut Matcha.
Owned by some longtime locals Union Biscuit opened late January 2025 at the intersection of Brent Thurman Way and West Sunset Road, an early part of The Bend serving up Biscuits by themselves but also topped with Bacon, Eggs, various Spreads and more.
The brainchild of Kyung Lee and his wife, the inclusion of a Kimchi and Spam Bowl plus Korean Fried Chicken juxtaposed by Pancakes alongside French Toast, a first visit focused entirely on the location’s eponymous Buttermilk rounds on their own.
A sparsely decorated space with wood and exposed ceilings, true to its “urban” name, one Biscuit and a Spread runs $4 with results outpacing the likes of Coffee Class in terms of size, butteriness and layering while all three toppings reminisce of Yardbird’s early days at a more favorable price point.
Born in Logan Utah Crumbl took the city by storm, their Instagramable rounds offered in thirty stores across six states by 2019 and now in all fifty states with six in Las Vegas including the Durango location opened in May 2020.
Created by Sawyer Hemsley and Jason McGowan, rapid expansion through franchising yielding mixed results from store to store as evidence by Social Media, it was after several variable experiences that the westside storefront proved competent, the staff exceedingly pleasant while describing each choice.
Undoubtedly popular in part due to photogenicity, though a sterile interior oversells the fact that everything is made from scratch, the first thing those entering will notice is Crumbl’s limited collection of just six weekly flavors, though occasionally one may find “Mystery Cookies” including specials from the previous week.
Still a young company, so much success despite only starting in September 2017 certainly enviable, best bites came from specials that included “Birthday Cake,” a nice texture with complexity added by Oreos while The Milk Chocolate Chip Cookie is executed as it aught to be.
Offered onsite or via delivery from 8am until at least 10pm Monday through Saturday it was next that “Strawberry Ice Cream Bar” took on the namesake before “Brookie” doubled down on two concepts with good effect.
Again finding “Cake” concepts better than the Cookies by which crumbl made their name suffice it to say “Butter Cake” wouldn’t be out of place in St. Louis while Dulce de Leche is a bit too sweet, but what one would expect of anything Caramel-topped.
Unquestionably Las Vegas’ top choice for French Pastry for nearly 10 years Rosallie Le French Café continues to show well on-site or to-go, a Monday morning delivery finding Pastries carefully arranged with several new items including an exceptional trio of Eclairs.
Now with four local locations, the original on Maryland Parkway almost universally with a wait from noon until close, La Mojarra Loca Grill is a rarity in Las Vegas that continues to thrive with no reservations, no website and no handouts to “influencers,” “content creators” and others.
Popular with local Hispanics, live music and festive directions paired to friendly service, it was as a party of eleven that a guest’s 60th birthday was celebrated at a long table where Food was as plentiful as the bottles of Modelo served in ice buckets.
Trendy without being excessive, the bar a raucous affair complete with Happy Hour, La Mojarra Loca Grill’s menu spans from traditional Mexican Food to unique Sushi items that seem less out of place once one sees an enormous plate of Ceviche or punchbowl Coctel de Camaron.
Generous with Chips and Salsa, the later packing a punch, Drinks include a multitude of Margaritas alongside inspired options such as a Rumchata Colada that helps quell the heat of Appetizers such as the Mussels cooked in vibrant Sauce.
Not overlooking Oysters topped in citrusy-Shrimp, a signature for good reason, Entrees range from famous grilled Prawns and Burritos to grilled Meats or faultless Molcajete served in several styles and sizes for prices about 1/3 what one might pay on Las Vegas Boulevard.
Currently baking from home Holy Dough Co. is a faith-based business focused on Organic Breads and Pastries using time-honored techniques plus a few modern flourishes to create shapes like Bunnies for Easter and Hearts for Valentine’s Day.
Best followed on Instagram at @Holydough_co, a range of loaves available at fair prices, fans rave Cinnamon Rolls sold by trays of nine while those seeking something savory are advised to select Jalapeno Cheddar Sourdough with a robust crust and tangy crumb that offers good stretch and a touch of heat.
Formerly with several locations spread across the valley, but now limited to 9680 South Eastern Avenue as America’s obsession with Cupcakes has declined, The Cupcakery continues to turn out good products at a fair price.
Ordered on a Thursday for take-out, a dozen only $3 more expensive today than a decade prior, Pamela Jenkins’ collection continues to showcase largely organic Ingredients, pure Butter and no preservatives whether one opts for mellow Vanilla or dense Chocolate.
Now also creating custom Cakes, the menu changing slightly each day, old favorites such as Kir Royale continue to perform well thanks to Raspberry Cake with Champagne Frosting while Cream Cheese topped choices like Bugsy or Southern Belle outpace those at Showboy or Sprinkles.
Despite signage suggesting Summer House Santa Monica the location inside Durango Casino & Resort is actually Lettuce Entertain You’s first branch of the “California-inspired Restaurant” out west, and regardless of what might be inside the Cookie Bar out front is a sight for sore eyes.
Taking a Spago-esque approach to Market-fresh fare, think Pizzas and Pastas plus plates from an all-wood grill, it is for roughly $5-6 each that guests will find a dozen or more daily baked good including everything from classic Chocolate Chip with big dark chunks to Rice Crispy Treats with or without bits of Oreo in the mix.
A natural feeling space bathed in light, Rockwell Group taking on LEYE’s first off-Strip venture, guests not fond of Cocoa will find “Birthday Cake” far outpacing crumbl’s famous Frosted Cookie while both glazed Lemon and Peanut Butter eat soft and chewy within a gently crisp rim.
Always impressing with Brownies and Blondies, also offered Gluten Free, Summer House’s Apple Oatmeal Cookie reminisces of Autumn Apple Crisp in portable form while the all-new Wild Thai Banana and Raspberry Cheesecake are sweet but balanced and complex.
Beef and King Oyster Mushrooms in Black Pepper Sauce
Now expanded to Dallas, Plano and the Southwest Vegas Valley 4 years after opening, despite growing competition, it was as a party of three that diners enjoyed an outstanding meal from ShangHai Taste on Tuesday evening.
Tucked inside Suite 130 of a complex on Rainbow Boulevard it is upon entry that eyes are immediately drawn to Chinese-born Chefs working inside the restaurant’s glass prep-room, and with Chef Jimmy Li’s time at 3 Villages, 1900 Asian Cuisine and Niu Gu well-known to fans the fact that everything on-site is made from scratch should come as no surprise.
Seating approximately 60 guests from 11:00am until 9:00pm seven-days-a-week it was with warm greetings that a pre-packed order was received, all old favorites that remained delicious despite a twenty minute drive.
Affordable without skimping on Ingredients, all thanks to Chef Li and Joe Muscaglione’s dedication, a distinctive feel is ensured by the fact that almost every single item on-site is imported from or near Shanghai, and starting with Soup Dumplings, or XLB, fans will be happy to know ShangHai Taste’s set a high standard whether made with Pork, Shrimp, Crab or Beef.
Able to accommodate most dietary preferences, fried Soup Dumplings in two varieties a winner to all but vegans, those eschewing all Animal products will likely gravitate to green Dumplings, though even more interesting bites are found in the form of Cold Bean Curd Noodles slicked in Scallion Oil or springy Kao Fu.
Built on family recipes handed down to Chef Li, his Fat Noodles with choice of Protein always a crowd-pleaser, Dumplings taste wonderful with or without spicy Oil or Soy while Fried Rice or Rice Cakes rival the best in town.
Family owned and operated from the start, Dominic Sang bringing family recipes from a Texas Doughnuttery to Sin City in October 2015, guests entering Glaze Doughnuts will notice little has since changed about the shop in nearly a decade while their soft base and creative toppings earn “Best of Las Vegas” accolades annually.
Located on Fort Apache Road, fair prices and friendly service undoubtedly part of Glaze’s appeal, what the shop lacks in selection is more than made up for in quality compared to the likes of Dunkin, Krispy Kream or other spots nearby.
Largely built on Yeast Rings, though undersized Fritters perform admirably, fans of simplicity will find Maple Frosting far more subtle than most while Chocolate and Vanilla Glaze are also of excellent quality with or without additions such as Cereal or Candy.
Not over-the-top, but balanced and complex, Caramel and Pecan dazzle atop a fluffy leavened base while Peanut Butter and Oreo do the same, though if one is seeking Glaze’s top choice the decision comes down to Blueberry Cinnamon Toast, Churros and Horchata or Matcha Green Tea Pistachio that delivers sweetness beneath toasty notes.
Located as close as one can be to Henderson while retaining a Las Vegas zip-code PHO Saigonese debuted in early 2024, popularity spread by word-of-mouth almost unprecedented in the Social Media era now seeing a second location on Spring Mountain soon to open.
Owned by Danmy Nguyen, a simple message on the website suggesting “we are passionate about sharing the delicious flavors of our homeland with others,” guests entering Suite #130 of 1740 East Serene Avenue are greeted by warm smiles and mixed woods while music plays subtly overhead.
Not a flashy space, though long and narrow with paintings juxtaposing organic touches, PHO Saigonese’s menu explores a wide swath of Vietnamese Cuisine including staples like Pho and Spring Rolls but also more esoteric plates as well as specials.
Managed by bilingual staff with good knowledge of the Food, a dueling pair of Vietnamese Coffees arriving first, fans of Coconut will find Cà Phê Dừa Đá Xay texturally compelling and mellow whether paired to grilled Pork Patty Rolls or Xoi Man with five types of Meat and runny Quail Eggs on slightly-sweet sticky Rice.
Selected specifically for Banh Khot, crispy cups with a custard layer supporting Shrimp, fans will find these better than many heralded Orange County icons while oversized Banh Xeo and Pho with a “Build Your Own” option are no less impressive and arguably each the best in Sin City.
Bacon Burger, cooper’s sharp, jalapeño bacon, bacon mayo, spicy tots
Pot Roast Dip, swiss cheese, HP aioli, natural jus, spicy tots
Coffee
Glazed Donut Bread Pudding, three rum caramel, vanilla crème anglaise
Bourbon Fudge Brownie, brown butter bacon ice cream
Lemon Bar, hazy ipa, pistachio crumble
Ground-breaking since opening Carson Kitchen’s greatness has seemingly become so expected that many are prone to overlook it, but on Friday eveningn 124 South 6th Street again showed well with several new items debuted just a few days earlier.
Fortunate to have tasted every new plate at Carson Kitchen since summer of 2015, Chefs Harwell, Simon and team forever rethinking even longtime best-sellers, it was alongside drinks that dining began shortly, all well-suited to iconic Chicken Skins, Bacon Jam and Tempura Green Beans with Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese.
Continuing with more Skins, equally enjoyable today as in 2014, Hot Dog “Burnt Ends” stand out thanks to sticky BBQ Sauce while seasonal Salads are highlighted by “Grape & Burrata” best enjoyed adjacent grilled Oysters with Cajun Butter.
Forever exuding creativity, quality and the sort of Food that challenges without compromise Chinese Eggplant is the latest Vegan showcase and for those okay with Butter or Shellfish the “Scampi” is even more delicious.
Going Blue Cheese and Honey for this season’s flatbread, and Pot Roast for “Between Bread,” a new rendition of the Burger incorporates Jalapeno Bacon to good effect.
Disappointed by last season’s Dessert, a mellow Lemon Bar with buttery Pistachio Crumble far better, Las Vegas’ best Brownie and Donut Bread Pudding remain mainstays and should be requisite to end a visit to DTLV’s best Restaurant.
