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Screenshot 2016 05 18 23 43 36 1 1
Screenshot 2016 05 18 23 43 36 1 1
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7 Restaurants to Hit During Your First Trip to Vegas

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at UCLA chapter.

Whether you’re in Las Vegas to make, or spend, a million bucks, you’re guaranteed to feel like it when you try these restaurants. A few all-time greats and a couple lesser known gems, checking out these joints will surely put you in the mood to test your luck on a few rounds of poker or party all night at Omnia.

1. Wicked Spoon

vegas

Photo courtesy of @wpumkinhappylife on Instagram

If you ask a local what buffet is a must-try in Vegas, Wicked Spoon is their response. This is the ultimate upscale buffet of your dreams with a brunch and dinner option. Some must-try items are the bone marrow topped with bread crumbs and sea salt and a personal favorite the unlimited chocolate covered strawberries.

2. Craftsteak

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Photo courtesy of @craftsteak on Instagram

Featuring a nightly seasonal menu, it can be hard to guarantee that your favorites will always be served. But not to worry because by the end of the night, everything will be your favorite. If the idea of raw beef gets you excited then prepare to be thrilled, because Craftsteak makes one of the best steak tartares in Vegas (and yes, it has been confirmed on Yelp).

3. Donut Bar

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Photo courtesy of @closetfatgirl on Instagram

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to eat crème brûlée in donut form? If you haven’t you should probably reevaluate your priorities and get to planning a trip to Las Vegas to visit Donut Bar. This quaint shop features a wide range of donuts from French toast and crème brûlée to a strawberry split and maple bacon cinnamon roll.

Donut Bar is situated in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas just steps from the Fremont Street Experience, so you can grab your donuts and coffee and take a walk down memory lane and check out the classic hotels and casinos. Now that you’ve booked your flight and cannot wait to get some donuts, chec kout this recipe for making homemade donuts to hold you over.

4. Mandarin Bar

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Photo courtesy of @schapmock on Instagram

A more refined pick, this bar offers hand-crafted cocktails and tapas with an unbeatable view of the city. Located on the 23rd floor of Mandarin Oriental Hotel of City Center, the service here is as impressive as the view, so if you don’t feel like another night of crazy parties stop by Mandarin and relish is its relaxing atmosphere. If you can’t make it to Vegas, but still want to try hand-crafted cocktails try these recipes.

5. Dom DeMarco’s

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Photo courtesy of @domdemarcos on Instagram

This contemporary Italian restaurant maintains modern décor and never shies away from putting a new twist on old favorites, yet still manages to make every dish into a reminder of your grandmother’s cooking. However, the star here is the pizza, just ask Barack Obama who ordered 12 while on a trip to Las Vegas. Dom DeMarco’s is named after Domenico DeMarcom who opened Di Fara Pizza in New York in 1964, which became known for having some of the best pizza in New York.

Fast-forward to a little more than 50 years and now you can enjoy the famous pizzas from chefs trained by DeMarco himself. Dishes to try: The DiFara Special, Seafood Pescatori, and a cannoli, or two. Want to make the next award-winning pizza? Try this recipe.

6. The Hush Puppy

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Photo Courtesy of @rousesmarkets on Instagram

Do you live on the West Coast and don’t have enough time to go to the South? Alas, good news, Vegas has got you covered. However, ordering from the menu for the first time could leave you confused, order the fried catfish. Their catfish is perfectly fried, leaving the fish moist underneath the crisp batter, and don’t miss the honey-butter perfect for dipping the many hush puppies you’ll be consuming. The restaurant got its start in Las Vegas in 1975 by a family from Arkansas and has been a wonderful place for family and friends ever since.

7. Jean Philippe Patisserie

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Photo Courtesy of @3113.artistry on Instagram

Located inside Aria Hotel and Casino of City Center, this is your best bet for a quick and delicious late night dessert on the strip. The patisserie features freshly made crepes, gelato, an assortment of delicious pastries and tarts, and a chocolate cake that’s not to be missed.