Paradise is the hidden beating heart of Las Vegas—where world-famous casinos meet authentic, local hangouts and some of the most ambitious kitchens in America operate just out of the global spotlight.
From Strip splurges to beloved local gems, here’s Paradise on a plate.
1. é by José Andrés
A tucked-away, reservation-only room inside Jaleo at the Cosmopolitan, é is an avant-garde tasting menu that feels like edible theater.
Chefs prepare 15-20 mind-bending courses before your eyes: liquid olives, foie gras cotton candy, deconstructed classics and molecular gastronomy.
It’s whimsical, intellectual, and a true culinary bucket-list experience for those lucky enough to score a seat.
2. Lotus of Siam
Lotus of Siam, set in a humble strip mall, is “best Thai in America”–level. Must-eats: khao soi, crispy duck with drunken noodles, fiery green papaya salad, and lush curries, all crafted with the freshest ingredients.
The wine list is legendary and the service warm, with regulars swapping recommendations for off-menu specials.
It’s worth every minute of the wait—and a pilgrimage for flavor fanatics visiting Vegas from around the world.
3. Esther’s Kitchen
An Arts District darling, Esther’s Kitchen brings soul-warming Italian cuisine to the desert: house-milled sourdough bread, hand-shaped pastas, simple wood-fired pizzas, and beautiful antipasti.
The farmhouse-chic space is bright and full of laughter and light, staff are kind and quick, and the cocktails embrace fresh herbs and Italian bitters.
The affordable lunch special is a local’s secret; the vibe is always convivial.
4. Wicked Spoon
No list of Paradise eats is complete without a nod to Vegas buffet excess, and The Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan is elevated indulgence.
Separate serving “mini-pans” make the spread both creative and endlessly fresh.
Expect prime rib, snow crab, global street food, inventive salads, and show-stopping desserts.
Come hungry: brunches last for hours and feature both bottomless bubbles and bottomless samples.
5. Raku
Raku is where chefs go after hours, and where serious eaters detour for Japanese charcoal-grilled meats, house-made tofu, and seasonal small plates.
Located off-Strip, Raku’s omakase is legendary, and the kitchen’s attention to detail—smoky, charred skewers, pristine sashimi, and delicate traditional desserts—is transporting.
It’s always busy, always memorable, and the sake list is as curated as the food.
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