Vegas, is proud of its reputation as a convention town and a party town where “what happens in Vegas; stays in Vegas.” But for the past few years the city’s culinary scene has been bulging at the seams – quite literally.   

Forget the boring buffets! The price might be right, but mouth-watering and taste bud tempting menus are being created almost as quickly as money is lost in Las Vegas. With dozens of fine dining establishments crowding into the Vegas resorts and casinos, here are my suggestions for casual or casually elegant culinary treats to sample. 

My first restaurant stop in Vegas is the “casually elegant” one I discovered more than a dozen years ago, Buzios Seafood Restaurant at the Rio. Sure, the seafood is fresh from the docks (steaming crab legs split for easy sampling with a dab of fresh pasta) to traditional New England fare (like clam chowder to die for!). But my favorite thing is perching on a chair at Buzios fresh oyster bar overlooking an open kitchen – more like ring-side seating for the entire restaurant. I love to watch the chef personally prepare my dish and enjoy the hustle and bustle behind the counter. Open daily from 5 to 11 pm, restaurant seating includes views of the Rio's Ipanema Beach and sparkling swimming pools. 

Social House at Treasure Island is a cool celebrity hotspot specializing in contemporary Pan Asian cuisine and sushi.  Offering late-night dining as well as standard dinner service, this multi-room restaurant adds a nightlife element to the full-dining experience with a terrace overlooking the Las Vegas Strip and the outdoor production, The Sirens of TI.  

Diablo’s Cantina at Monte Carlo is “Party Central” for those looking to let loose in a lively fiesta-like atmosphere.  Downstairs guests find the main dining area with a hip bar and lounge while upstairs an open-air bar area overlooking the Las Vegas Strip features a stage for live music and DJs to keep the energy going all night. 

For late night dining, in-between table munchies, or a quick bite to eat, you can’t go wrong with The Venetian’s 24/7 Grand Lux Café serving casual global cuisine. Like its sister restaurant, The Cheesecake Factory, The Grand Lux fulfills any hunger, and the architecture and décor was inspired by the look and feel of classic Venetian cafes. The wine list is equally eclectic, including selections from all regions.  

Choose from more than 100 menu selections including breakfast, appetizers, pizza, seafood, steaks, burgers, chicken, specialty items, pasta, salads, and sandwiches.  My Grand Lux recommendation? Start with the Asian Nachos, and move your way down the mouth-watering menu, and end with a selection from over 20 fabulous desserts.