Finding "local" spots to enjoy some of the best food Vegas has to offer can make your trip that much better. Not only will you find better values than on the strip favorites, but you'll (sometimes) find yourself not waiting as long as you would for some of the more famous restaurants on the strip. 

We've created a list of some of our local places to eat in Las Vegas and we hope that you enjoy them just as much as we do!! 

One of the first things Monica & I look for when traveling is a local coffee shop.

7 min (3.3 mi): If you love trying new coffee shops when traveling, Sambalatte has some of the best tasting beans for their coffee and espresso. The coffee shop itself is two stories and have a really relaxed vibe. You might see a celebrity or two when visiting here.

9 min (3.6mi): There are Dutch Bros all around the city, but this is the closest one to us. They have some really great tasting coffee with some very unique flavors. Check out their menu here: https://www.dutchbros.com/menu.

There are two stand alone locations that are both 1.5-2 miles away from the house, with a third inside the Albertons that is 4 min (1.1mi) from the house . They're super convenient in location but the lines can sometimes be really long.

These breakfast spots are places we visit on a regular basis! 

9 min (4.7mi): If you love diner coffee, this place we'll have you buzzed from the caffeine rush! They have delicious diner food including amazing biscuits & gravy, chicken fried steak, and homemade cinnamon rolls (made fresh everyday. when they run out they run out). Their service is amazing and the wait can sometimes be 15-20min.

6 min (2.1mi): They're breakfast burritos are AMAZING! They're big enough for two people to share. We usually share a bacon burrito w extra cheese & extra bacon. Warning: You'll be full ALL DAY haha! Call in your order ahead and it's usually ready by the time you get there. (702) 256-3302

Mimosa's is a staple for Las Vegas locals. The food here is amazing and the mimosas are so big you could share with 1 to 4 people. Make sure you have your DD with you haha! 

We combined this category because of of these locations can be visited for lunch or dinner. We hope you enjoy! 

10 min (4.6mi): Their menu boasts a wide variety of sandwiches, each prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients that truly stand out in flavor and presentation. A highlight is their signature "Bobbie" sandwich, a Thanksgiving-inspired delight with turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and mayo. It's a delicious blend of sweet and savory that captures the essence of a home-cooked holiday meal. The cheesesteaks and Italian (our FAVORITE) subs are also must-tries, packed with authentic flavors and generous portions.

10 min (5.1mi): This is truly a hidden gem for locals that are craving authentic Puerto Rican food! Their Pernil (roasted pork) is outstanding – tender, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned, embodying the essence of traditional Puerto Rican cooking. The Arroz con Gandules (rice with pigeon peas) and Tostones (fried plantains) are also exceptional, offering a wonderful balance of flavors and textures.

4 min (1.2mi): Their Carne Asada and Chile Rellenos are particularly noteworthy for their authentic flavors and expert preparation. The tacos, available in a variety of fillings, are a must-try – each one is a small burst of flavor, perfectly seasoned and served with fresh, homemade tortillas.

9 min (3.7mi): The tamales here are jam packed with meat and so much flavor! We also love the albondigas and the fideo. Their rice and beans are pretty good, and their homemade tortillas are delicious!

7 min (2.5mi): A delicious take on NY style pizza, with all of the banter behind the counter included! The cheese they use is SOOOOO good and their ranch dressing is BY FAR the best we've ever had! Warning: If you like garlic, you'll be in LOVE with their ranch!

8 min (3.6mi): Situated in a stylish, contemporary space that boasts a welcoming ambiance, this restaurant is ideal for both casual and special dining occasions. They feature a range of handcrafted pastas, pizzas, and other Italian specialties. Standout dishes include their house-made pasta, particularly the Tagliatelle with Bolognese.

8 min (3.6mi): THIS IS HANDS DOWN THE BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT CLOSEST TO US (The next would be Carbon @ Aria). Their service is impeccable. Their food is absolutely authentic with all fresh ingredients. Everything is homemade: every noodle, every sauce, EVERYTHING! If you like Old Fashion's, ask for the God Father. It's not on the menu anymore but they might still be able to make it! The environment is beautiful & upscale, nestled inside of Tivoli Village. You can take a nice walk through Tivoli (weather permitting) to enjoy the rest of your evening after dinner.

5 min (1.9mi): Nittaya's has delicious Thai food! They offer an exquisite fusion of traditional and modern Thai cuisine. The cozy and inviting ambiance complements the thoughtfully crafted menu. Signature dishes like the Spinach Curry and Secret Noodles stand out for their unique flavors and beautiful presentation. The service is attentive and friendly, adding to the warm atmosphere. Overall, it's a must-visit for an authentic and memorable Thai dining experience.

9 min (3.2mi): Authentic Greek cuisine!! The ambiance is casual and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed meal. Their gyro and souvlaki are standout dishes, boasting flavors that transport you straight to Greece. The portions are generous, and the ingredients are fresh, highlighting the quality of the food. Friendly service and reasonable prices make it a great choice for Greek food lovers.

17 min (8.7mi): There are a lot of other Sushi restaurants that are much closer to the house, but we happily go out of our way because they offer lobster rolls with their All You Can Eat menu. The Las Vegas Roll and the Japanese Lasagna are both FAVORITES with our family. The service is attentive and the pricing for AYCE sushi is fair. Call in ahead of time to get the wait time. This place fill up FAST!

16 min (8.2mi): There are MANY imitators to the Boiling Crab, but NOTHING comes close to these guys! They're renowned for their 'Whole Sha-Bang' flavor combination. This unique blend of spices and seasonings brings an explosion of flavor to their seafood, creating a memorable and savory experience (I eat this sauce by the spoonfull!!). The gumbo, rich and hearty, is another standout dish, full of authentic Southern charm and perfectly cooked ingredients. The casual, hands-on dining atmosphere adds to the fun and immersive experience. It's a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts looking for bold flavors and a lively environment.

16 min (6.8mi): If your a fan of authentic Beignets (like the ones found in the French Quarter at Disneyland) this is the place to be!! They also offer gourmet doughnuts and surprisingly delicious pizza. The pepperonis they use are some of the best in the Vegas valley!

7 min (2.5mi): Americana is an upscale restaurant serving delicious cocktails and some of the finest dining on the planet. 

Their steaks are delicious, the salads are always unique & seasonal, and the service is 5 star every time we go. When you make your reservation and the weather is nice, ask for out door seating. You'll be able to enjoy the lakeside views with elegant ambiance during the sunset. 

These are our favorite places to eat on the strip (and VERY close to the strip) and downtown. 

19 min (13mi): Carbone is simply magical. It's the best Italian restaurant we've been to in the US. They only have a few locations (NY, Dallas, Vegas, Miami, Hong Kong, Qatar, Saudi Arabia). They feature freshest, most flavorful Italian food we've ever had this side of Italy. And if the ingredients aren't to their strict standards (say, the Capreese Salad) they'll simply pull it from the menu. They WILL NOT serve anything less than excellent. From the variety of dinner bread, the fresh mozzarella, the table-side caesar salad, their steaks and their world renowned Vodka Pasta, Carbone is an experience you MUST have. Definitely book your reservation as soon as possible (before you arrive, preferable 2-3 months in advance).

19 min (13mi): With only a few locations in the US (Newport Beach, La Jolla, Century City, Irvine, Las Vegas) and one in Los Cabos (Mexico), Javier's is a standout destination for upscale Mexican cuisine. The ambiance is sophisticated and stylish, with a luxurious decor that creates an elegant dining experience. The restaurant specializes in authentic Mexican dishes, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.

The menu at Javier's is both diverse and exquisite. Signature dishes like their Chilean Sea Bass and the Filete con Hongos (filet mignon with mushrooms) are cooked to perfection, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The ceviche is another must-try, showcasing fresh seafood with a zesty and refreshing taste.

What sets Javier's apart is its attention to detail, both in the presentation of its dishes and the overall dining experience. The service is impeccable, with a knowledgeable and attentive staff that enhances the upscale atmosphere.

Additionally, Javier's boasts an impressive selection of tequilas and handcrafted cocktails, perfect for pairing with your meal.

Be sure to call ahead of your arrival to Vegas to get a reservation. They book out for months.

16 min (11.6mi): Delmonico Steakhouse in Las Vegas, led by Chef Emeril Lagasse, offers a luxurious steakhouse experience with superb steaks and a New Orleans twist. The ambiance is elegant, perfect for special occasions. Highlights include the perfectly aged and cooked bone-in ribeye, and the excellent wine list. The service is impeccable, adding to the upscale dining experience. Delmonico is a top choice for those seeking a memorable steak dinner in Vegas.

14 min (8.8mi): Good Pie in Downtown Las Vegas is a standout pizzeria, offering authentic Brooklyn-style pizza with a perfectly crispy and chewy crust. Their Grandma-style pies are exceptional, featuring a delicious blend of quality toppings. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great spot for a quick, satisfying meal. With friendly service and reasonable prices, Good Pie is a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts in Las Vegas.

14 min (9.6mi): The Palace Station Oyster Bar in Las Vegas is a gem for seafood lovers, offering fresh and flavorful dishes in a bustling, casual setting. Known for its delicious pan roasts, jambalaya and wide variety of oysters, the restaurant provides a great dining experience with friendly service. It's a must-visit for fresh seafood in a lively atmosphere.

24 min (21.1mi): Definitely worth the DRIVE! If you're near the strip it's even closer (14 min south of Mandalay Bay Casino & Resort). Taco y Taco Mexican Eatery in Las Vegas offers a delightful and authentic Mexican street food experience. Their tacos, particularly the al pastor, are a highlight, featuring flavorful, well-seasoned meats and fresh toppings. 

The atmosphere is casual and vibrant, perfect for a quick and tasty meal. Excellent value and friendly service make it a top choice for taco enthusiasts.