Sunday

07-06-2025 Vol 2013

Las Vegas Dining Scene Sees Notable Restaurant Closures Amid Changing Landscape

The dining scene in Las Vegas continues to evolve as several high-profile restaurants and bars recently closed their doors. At the halfway point of 2025, both iconic Strip venues and beloved neighborhood establishments have bid farewell, reflecting a significant shift in the culinary landscape of the city.

Among the notable closures is Count’s Vamp’d Rock Bar & Grill, which served as a vital music and dining venue for over 16 years. Founded by Danny “Count” Koker, known for his appearances in shows like Counting Cars and Pawn Stars, Vamp’d was more than just a restaurant; it was a cornerstone of the city’s off-Strip nightlife. With its combination of live performances, hearty bar food, and a welcoming atmosphere, the venue played a pivotal role in Las Vegas’s music scene. It welcomed a variety of acts, from local tribute bands to famous musicians such as members of Black Sabbath and Pantera. However, Koker has decided to sell the property, listing it for $4.3 million, and the venue played its final set on June 28.

Social Station Kitchen & Cocktails, which opened its doors in May 2024, is another establishment that has closed, surprisingly, after less than a year. This stylish venue in Henderson was known for its creative menu featuring dishes like Reuben eggrolls and campanelle bolognese, as well as an impressive cocktail selection, including espresso martinis. Despite the restaurant’s modern design and a lively atmosphere, it shuttered in April 2025, leaving many patrons bewildered – online reservations were still available even after the closure, leading to confusion when guests arrived to find the doors locked.

In another significant announcement, EDO Tapas & Wine, a renowned tasting-menu destination in Chinatown, will be closing its doors after seven successful years. The restaurant gained fame for its whimsical and artistic dishes, such as bluefin tuna tarts and caviar-filled eggshells, all served in an intimate setting for just 35 guests. As the team prepares to unveil their new culinary venture, Braseria, opening this fall, the closure of EDO Tapas & Wine is bittersweet for its dedicated clientele. The final dining experience at this standout restaurant is scheduled for September.

Spiedini Fiamma Italian Bistro, located within the Rampart Casino and JW Marriott, also recently closed to make way for a new eatery, Ai Pazzi. Offering a scenic coastal Italian ambiance, Spiedini Fiamma was known for its exquisite menu curated by chef Paula Smagacz, featuring dishes from lobster ravioli to housemade pizzas. The vibrant restaurant boasted a beautiful patio and an inviting atmosphere, leaving a space rich in Italian culture and culinary tradition.

Adding to the ongoing changes, the high-profile restaurant Rivea, curated by renowned chef Alain Ducasse, permanently closed its doors after nearly a decade of service at the W Las Vegas. This marked the end of more than 20 years of Ducasse-led dining in the building, which began with the Michelin-starred Mix. Serving its final dinner on June 22, Rivea was celebrated for its elegant French cuisine and breathtaking views of the Las Vegas Strip.

Some establishments are also undergoing temporary closures to revamp their offerings. The Electra Cocktail Club at the Venetian Resort has closed for renovations, including a new design and an updated cocktail menu filled with themed events. The iconic SW Steakhouse at the Wynn is also temporarily shut until August 7 for interior updates.

Moreover, the stylish CliQue Bar & Lounge at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is in the process of a full remodel, with plans to reopen in the fall. Additionally, The X Pot is scheduled for renovations in August; however, it is currently running a limited-time unlimited wagyu and live seafood hotpot experience priced at $119 per person.

As these dining venues change or close, the Las Vegas culinary scene remains vibrant and forever evolving, continually reshaping the expectations of both locals and visitors alike. With new concepts on the horizon and seasoned locations bidding goodbye, the future of dining in Las Vegas is sure to be an exciting adventure.

image source from:vegas

Abigail Harper