Italian Food in Las Vegas

Some things are sacred. In Vegas, not very much. But one thing this city takes very seriously is Italian food. Maybe it’s a hold over from the “good old days” when the wiseguys ran the place, but Italian cuisine has always been among the strongest dining options in Las Vegas, maybe today more than ever.

Of course, any discussion about Italian food here pretty much has to start at the Venetian and Palazzo resorts. I mean, the whole place is inspired by Italy! Starting at the summit, you’ll want to consider the several restaurants run here by Chef Mario Batali himself, including B&B, the meat-focused (but still quite Italian) Carnevino and more casual Enoteca Otto (great salumi and pizzas). In the Grand Canal Shoppes, Zeffirino, Canaletto and Reggiano all have their fans as well. And Palazzo also offers the exotically decorated, but classically satisfying Lavo (get the chicken Domenic), sexy and secretive Dal Toro, as well as a coal-oven Grimaldi’s Pizzeria –open late! You need me to decide for you? Sorry, it’s not that easy!

But if you don’t happen to be staying in or near the V/P, don’t despair, there’s no shortage of other great choices. If the name Sirio Maccione means anything to you, you’ll want to consider either his venerated Tuscan-inspired Osteria del Circo at Bellagio, or self-named Sirio’s at Aria (leave room for the grappa cart!). Caesars Palace features an outpost of New York’s legendary Rao’s, while the Forum Shops offers the under-the-radar Trevi (great happy hour!) and popular Il Mulino. Chef Scott Conant (of Chopped fame) offers both his elegant Scarpetta (pastas without peer) and casual D.O.C.G. (great pizza) at The Cosmopolitan. Philly legend Martarano’s can be found at the Rio (now, that’s a meatball!). I’ve had good experiences at Wolfgang Puck’s Lupo (Mandalay Bay) and if good food without fuss is the call, go with Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria & Cucina in the Shops at Crystals (attached to Aria in City Center). Almost exactly across the street, Lombardi’s (Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood) and down the way, Slice of Vegas (Mandalay Place) are both good reasonably priced options.

Or did you want something elegant and romantic? In that case, go to a place that is truly one of a kind, Sinatra’s at the Encore. The only restaurant in the world that the family of Ol’ Blue Eyes has endorsed.

Speaking of Sinatra, if you want to seek out a place that’s been around since the Rat Pack ran around, go find Piero’s near the Convention Center. It’s the genuine article, with all the stories to match. No doubt about it. There are a few other treasured off-Strip gems as well, including Capo’s, Casa di Amore, and Chicago Joe’s. Another treasured local family operation, now located across from the Hard Rock Hotel, is Ferraro’s—great Osso Buco.

Now loosen that belt buckle and mangia!

Special Thanks to E.C. Gladstone for helping out with this piece as he does not seem to be watching his carbohydrate intake as much as I am. The guy can put down some serious pasta.