The Local Foodie’s Guide to Las Vegas: The 5 Best Restaurants That Aren’t on the Strip

Las Vegas has long been known for entertainment—but don’t forget to make restaurant reservations: the food scene is now equally buzz-worthy. Venture beyond the Strip and you’ll be even more likely to enjoy an unforgettably delicious meal without breaking the bank.

That’s why we’ve put together this off-the-Strip Vegas Food Guide to inspire your next culinary adventure. Our list includes unique, authentic spots throughout the Vegas Valley that locals love, including a few of Dr. Pancholi’s personal favorites. We hope trying one or more of these Vegas hotspots will have you feeling like a true foodie.

Honey Salt

Located 20 minutes from the Vegas strip, Honey Salt is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serving homestyle brunch, lunch, and dinner, this casual bar and eatery has something for everyone, including an epic kids menu AND a bangin’ happy hour on the patio (yes, the best of both worlds).

Start with a fresh, seasonal cocktail and a shared plate of crispy calamari and you’ll know why so many locals are devoted to this comfortably stylish spot. It’s also a great place for grain-free eating with uber-healthy options including cauliflower rice and grilled broccolini. If you can’t get enough and want to copy their dishes in your own kitchen, grab a copy of the founder’s cookbook, “Honey Salt: A Culinary Scrapbook.”

• PANCHOLI’S PICK: Farm House Meatloaf

Arawan

If you’re ready to be transported to the other side of the world, then visit Arawan Thai Bistro in Winchester. Their Thai curries, noodle bowls, and stir-frys are aesthetically presented and made with quality, seasonal ingredients. Many also have an unexpected twist: their Pad Thai is wrapped in a “latticed” egg and the stunning drunken noodles include squid ink.

Celebrating a special occasion such as an anniversary? Let the staff know and they’ll include a special touch.

All that said, it is their dessert menu that often impresses people the most. Order the créme brûlée and you’re sure to be delighted at the presentation. Arawan’s dedicated in-house pastry chef also specializes in flavorful homemade cakes and ice creams. Celebrating a special occasion such as an anniversary? Let the staff know and they’ll include a special touch.

• PANCHOLI’S PICK: Mango Island

Craft Kitchen

What do you get when you combine an artisanal bakery with an upbeat farm-to-table restaurant, run by an award-winning chef? Craft Kitchen has been serving the Henderson neighborhood since 2015 with locally-sourced and organic ingredients. They also have a passion for quality, comfort, and community that shows through in every dish and dessert.

Start with a bottomless mimosa at brunch, then consider whether to order a Coconut Chia Pudding (complete with fresh berries and house-made granola) or satisfy your cravings with a Crab Cake Benedict topped with lemon-caper hollandaise. Their menu also offers an impressive number of options for gluten-free and vegan diners.

• PANCHOLI’S PICK: Smashed Avocado Toast

Elia Authentic Greek Taverna

Elia Authentic Greek Taverna is Vegas’s go-to for traditional Mediterranean cuisine. This Spring Valley restaurant serves old-world family recipes that are crafted with the finest ingredients and care. Their classic, flavorful Greek dishes and freshly grilled bread, veggies, and skewered meats will have you feeling like you’re dining on the streets of Athens (or the beautiful island of Santorini).  

Menu highlights include the Keftedakia (flavorful Greek meatballs) and the grilled whole fish (they fly in the freshest catch). Their salads also can’t be beat, so be sure to order one to share.

• PANCHOLI’S PICK: Grilled Octopus

Sen of Japan

If you’re looking for a celebrity-chef experience without the long wait time and sky-high bill, check out Sen of Japan from Nakano Hiromi, the former head of kitchen of NOBU at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The essence of this restaurant is in the name: ‘Sen’ means fresh in Japanese, so you can trust in the quality of ingredients in each dish.

For the ultimate experience, try the “omakase” style of dining, which means giving the chef creative freedom. You’ll then get to sit back and enjoy a series of unique, seasonal small courses designed to delight your palate, all served in a specific order. There’s no doubt you’ll want to raise a glass of sake to this beautiful cuisine served in an intimate atmosphere.

• PANCHOLI’S PICK: Shrimp Tempura & Salmon Maki Roll

While downtown’s five-diamond restaurants gain international attention, a culinary revolution is also happening off the Strip. We hope you’ll visit these hidden gems we’ve shared for a true local’s experience of Vegas you won’t soon forget.

What are your recommendations for best restaurants off the Strip? Fellow foodies, speak up in our comments!