Las Vegas continues to thrive as a culinary hotspot with several noteworthy openings and events in the vibrant bar and restaurant scene.
One of the most anticipated ventures is Nocturno, a new cocktail bar launched by Chef D.J. Flores, the founder-owner of the acclaimed Milpa restaurant.
Teaming up with hospitality veteran Aaron Cappello, they founded Nivel Hospitality Group, with Nocturno being their inaugural project.
Nestled at 1017 S. First St., Suite 180, in the Arts District downtown, Nocturno promises a unique cocktail experience that merges cinematic ambience with expertly crafted drinks.
Bar director Luis “Lu” Lopez brings a robust mixology background, having held significant positions at several prestigious venues, including the Cocktail Collective at The Venetian and the award-winning Youngblood in San Diego.
Flores describes Nocturno as a haven for the curious and the thirsty — a place where time slows down amidst the sounds of hand-cut ice and fresh citrus wafting through the air.
The cocktail menu is thoughtfully curated, focusing on flavor profiles, and complemented by a selection of brews and natural wines.
Small plates explore culinary concepts beyond traditional Mexican fare, featuring standout items like pork trotter croquettes, showcasing Flores’ versatility earned through his James Beard Award nominations.
With its elegant setting and innovative offerings, Nocturno is quickly emerging as one of Vegas’s most captivating new bars.
In other news, UnderDog Beer Hall is preparing for its grand opening on Thursday in the Showcase Mall on the Strip.
This venue is the reimagined first floor of BrewDog Las Vegas, with the upper level transforming into a rooftop restaurant, bar, and terrace that boasts panoramic views.
Guests can look forward to a festive ceremony starting at 7 p.m., featuring an appearance by the Raiderettes, the cheerleaders of the Las Vegas Raiders.
The first 25 customers will receive a special token for chances to win exciting prizes throughout the evening, including an opportunity to win a $1,000 Ticketmaster gift card.
UnderDog Beer Hall promises affordable offerings with $7 beers and $10 pizzas available all day every day.
Moreover, the beer hall will feature 15-plus televisions and a range of fan-favorite pints alongside specialty releases, as well as game-day promotions and summer pop-ups.
Yet another exciting development comes from The Sports Bra, a bar that celebrates women’s sports, initially launched with just 40 seats in Portland, Oregon.
Founder and CEO Jenny Nguyen announced plans to expand to four cities, including Las Vegas, despite not revealing specific site timelines or locations yet.
Nguyen expressed pride in establishing roots in places with rich sports cultures, affirming the significant demand for women’s sports in these cities.
Meanwhile, foodies should keep an eye on Carversteak at Resorts World for the off-menu Carver-Steak & Eggs Burger.
Available nightly from 5 p.m., this exclusive burger features a unique stack of ingredients, including a sunny-side egg, chimichurri, American wagyu rib cap, Gruyère, and more served on a sesame brioche bun.
This $42 delight began as a behind-the-scenes treat for executive chef Daniel Ontiveros but gained popularity among staff and patrons alike.
On special occasions like Father’s Day, guests can enjoy the burger in the main dining room, although it typically remains a bar-only exclusive.
As National Martini Day approaches on June 19, Diner Ross in The Linq will celebrate with its innovative Dirty Martini Salad.
This savory dish features a mix of martini olives, juniper, pimento, Roquefort, lemon, and chives atop fresh Bibb lettuce, all for $17.
For those inclined towards Asian cuisine, Jinya Ramen Bar is launching its Summer Chef’s Specials, with highlights including tan tan men and buffalo cauliflower.
The tan tan men, priced at $18.80, features thick noodles in a chilled chicken, soy, and sesame broth, garnished with pork soboro, baby bok choy, and chili oil.
Additionally, the buffalo cauliflower, at $9, offers a spicy kick paired with creamy ranch.
These specials are available until August at Jinya’s locations on Flamingo Road and Rainbow Blvd.
Lastly, Lago at the Bellagio is undergoing a transformation under the guidance of newly appointed consultant Chef Chad Colby.
Colby, a James Beard Award nominee known for his restaurant Antico Nuovo in Los Angeles, is set to introduce a fresh approach to contemporary Italian cuisine at Lago, which remains open during this transition period.
As Las Vegas continues to reinvent itself, these openings and expansions reflect the city’s dynamic culinary landscape and its commitment to providing memorable dining experiences.
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