Downtown
When you speak of Las Vegas history, there’s no escaping the mention of downtown – because this is where it all started. Las Vegas, which means “the meadows” in Spanish, gained its name in the 1800s when this green valley and desert spring waters offered respite for weary travelers traversing the Old Spanish Trail on their way to California.
The city’s official history began on May 15, 1905, when 110 acres of land adjacent to the Union Pacific Railroad tracks was auctioned in what would become the downtown area. Las Vegas became incorporated as a city in 1911, with a population of 3,000.
A pivotal year for Las Vegas was 1931, when Nevada legalized casino gambling, liberalized the state divorce law by reducing residency requirements to six weeks, and construction started on the Boulder Canyon Project, now known as the Hoover Dam.
These changes greatly impacted downtown’s Fremont Street, where it evolved from a dusty whistle stop into a haven for fun seekers.
It was also during the middle of the 20th century that Las Vegas continued its triumphant march toward becoming the gambling, or ‘gaming’ capital of the world. During this time, the use of neon emerged, transforming Fremont Street into “Glitter Gulch.”
In 1959, the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign was created by resident Betty Willis. It was also during this era where Las Vegas became known for its “colorful” characters like Bugsy Siegel and Howard Hughes. It wasn’t until the late 1980’s that the face of the Las Vegas gambling industry was forever changed by one man, Steve Wynn, who ushered in the era of the mega resort.
Today, the future of Downtown Las Vegas looks as bright as the lights on the Fremont Street Experience, constantly evolving, but somehow retaining its history; never forgetting its past, while acknowledging the present and moving forward with a vision, a dream and a plan that can only be described as future-perfect.
DOWNTOWN DINING
DON B’S STEAKHOUSE at Fitzgeralds Hotel features fine dining and expertly prepared entrees including dry-aged beef custom-cut in an in-house butcher shop, fresh seafood, chicken, lavish desserts baked fresh daily and fine wines. Open 5-11 p.m., Thursday-Saturday. 800-274-5285
CHICAGO BREWING COMPANY is tucked away at the Four Queens, serving handcrafted micro-brews, along with a unique selection of appetizers, pizzas, entrees, and of course, fine cigars. Open daily, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 a.m. 702-924-5222
Those who still hanker for the shrimp cocktail can rest easy, the SHRIMP BAR AND DELI at the Golden Gate Hotel still serves this Las Vegas tradition in a ‘fancy’ tulip-shaped sundae glass, to boot, at $1.99 it’s still a bargain. 702-385-1906
CHICAGO JOE’S serves a little slice of Italy with favorites just like mama made it, from appetizers to a wide selection of pastas, seafood and veal dishes. 820 S. Fourth Street. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; 5-10 p.m., Saturday. 702-382-5637
THE FLAME STEAKHOUSE at El Cortez still serves traditional fare of surf and turf, and dishes from the grill in fairly hefty portions. Open daily, 4-10 p.m. 702-385-5200
At the Four Queens, HUGO’S CELLAR is considered to be downtown’s sleeper hit, tucked away from the hustle and bustle and serving some of the finest, freshest seafood in town. Open daily, 5:30-11 p.m. 702-385-4011
COURTYARD GRILL at the Fitz serves breakfast, lunch and dinner specials such as the “Twosome Breakfast” for $1.99, or a full order of ribs for $9.99. Open daily, 6:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m., Sunday-Thursday; till 1 a.m., Friday-Saturday. 800-274-5825
Casual fine-dining can be found at SECOND STREET GRILL at Fremont Hotel & Casino. Feast on Pacific rim cuisine amidst elegant surroundings, or enjoy a traditional 12 oz. bone-in steak with all the trimmings. Open 6-10 p.m., Sunday, Monday and Thursday; till 11 p.m., Friday-Saturday. 702-385-3232
VIC & ANTHONY’S at the Golden Nugget features the finest selection of mouthwatering prime steaks, lobster, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine selection. Open daily, 5-11 p.m. 702-386-8399
LILLIE’S ASIAN CUISINE, also at the Golden Nugget, is an East-meets-West restaurant specializing in Cantonese cuisine given a pan-Asian twist. Plus, there are now two teppanyaki tables, for a more expanded dining menu. Open daily, 5 p.m.-midnight, Sunday-Thursday; till 1 a.m., Friday-Saturday. 702-385-7111
TRIPLE GEORGE GRILL is tucked away in a quiet area downtown and serves Bay-style seafood and dry-aged steaks in a traditional setting. 201 N. 3rd Street. Open for lunch and dinner. 702-384-2761
The CHART HOUSE at Golden Nugget’s new Rush Tower, has a history that dates back to 1961. True to tradition, the Vegas branch will still serve-up top-of-the-catch seafood, succulent steaks and decadent desserts. Open daily, 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Monday-Thursday; till 11:30 p.m., Friday-Saturday; till 10:30 p.m., Sunday. 702-385-7111
Binion’s RANCH STEAKHOUSE, is one of Las Vegas’ best-kept secrets, serving classic favorites such as 21 oz. porterhouse steak, beer-battered prawns and its signature dish, chicken-fried lobster. Open daily, 5-11 p.m. 702-382-1600
MICKIE FINNZ FISH HOUSE is a casual beach-themed restaurant and bar serving the freshest fish, delicious chicken, juicy steaks and signature cocktails. Live music daily. 425 Fremont Street. Open daily, 11 a.m.-2 a.m. 702-382-4204
HENNESSEY’S TAVERN, serves pub-grub like breakfast platters and tavern specials, sandwiches, burgers, soups and salads…the works. 425 Fremont Street. Open daily, 8 a.m.-2 a.m. 702-382-4421
TINOCO’S KITCHEN is Vegas Club’s newest dining experience. Chef Tinoco moved this little gem from the Arts Factory, where he gained rave reviews for his classic cuisine like perfectly-seared ahi tuna and chicken parmigiana. Located adjacent to Vegas Club Players Club. Open daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m. 702-380-5735
TRIPLE 7 RESTAURANT AND MICROBREWERY at Main Street Station serves up handcrafted beers, appetizers, pizzas, gourmet sandwiches, steaks, ribs, and even fresh sushi. Open daily, 11 a.m.-7 a.m. 702-387-1896
DU-PAR’S at the historic Golden Gate Hotel has taken over what was once The Bay City Diner. This popular California institution has been around since 1938 and is one of the few remaining places that still serves “Blue Plate Specials” and made-fresh-daily pies. A must-try is their famous buttermilk pancakes. 702-366-9378
RED SUSHI at the Golden Nugget offers the best in traditional Japanese cuisine coupled with hip and modern surroundings, it is sure to cater to all of your raw cravings. Open 5-11 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday. 702-385-7111
Long a local’s secret, CASA DON JUAN serves authentic Mexican cuisine with a decidedly downtown vibe. The usual traditional favorites are served here, from tacos, burritos and hand made tortillas to margaritas and specialty cocktails. 1204 S. Main Street. Open daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m. 702-384-8070
MAMACITA’S RESTAURANT serves entrées in a Ma & Pa atmosphere with a DVD of a disco concert or the Eagles entertaining diners. The food is spectacular and a great value — try authentic ropa vieja, roasted tilapia, Cuban sandwich, or any of a dozen other specialty dishes. 611 Fremont Street. 702-474-7033
OSCAR’S at Plaza Hotel Casino is the latest addition to the newly-renovated property, and boasts the stamp of approval from “Las Vegas’ Happiest Mayor,” Oscar Goodman. Overlooking Fremont Street, the steakhouse features perfectly-aged steaks, along with made-from-scratch sides; as well as the opportunity have one of Oscar’s “broads” visit with customers during dinner… these women are ready discuss subjects such as politics, sports, wine, Las Vegas history and more. Open daily for dinner at 5 p.m. 702-386-7227
HASH HOUSE A GO-GO opens yet another outpost in town. Serving-up “farm-fresh food with a unique twist,” expect the classics like waffles, pancakes, burgers and egg dishes, but with that extra oomph (and serving). Be forewarned, the portions are huge. Plaza Hotel, lobby, open 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday-Thursday; until 1 a.m., Friday-Saturday. 702-386-2594
For those who welcome a high-calorie diet, head down to HEART ATTACK GRILL at the Fremont East district. As its name suggests, everything on the menu is chock full of all-things ‘not-so-good’ for you – butter, cream, red meat, sodas and more. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. 450 Fremont Street. Open daily, 11 a.m. til midnight.
Mahalo! A big touch of the “big island” can now be found at Plaza Hotel. ISLAND SUSHI AND HAWAIIAN GRILL features the best of Hawaiian cuisine including island-style plate lunches, pupus (appetizers) and a fresh Poke bar. Open 7 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday-Thursday; till 1 a.m., Friday-Saturday. 702-386-1600
Over at the Fremont East district, you can’t beat CAFÉ CORTEZ which offers a wide variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner specialties served in generous portions. Inside El Cortez Hotel. Open 24/7. 702-385-5200
Artsy, funky and bohemian-chic best describes THE BEAT COFFEEHOUSE. It’s a return to retro – with – gasp! – vinyl (that’s old records) plus a selection of café fare from chef Andy Knudsen. It’s as close to a North Beach vibe as you’re going to get in Vegas. Emergency Arts Building, 520 Fremont Street. Open 7 a.m. til midnight, Monday-Friday; 9 a.m. til midnight, Saturday. 702-408-5563
BAR + BISTRO @ THE ARTS FACTORY in the 18b Arts District dubs itself as an “urban eatery with seasonal cuisine.” The menu includes a full selection of tapas, pizzas, sandwiches, entrees and more.107 E. Charleston Boulevard, Suite 155. Open daily – bistro hours, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., daily; 5-10 p.m., Monday-Saturday; bar hours, 4-11 p.m., Monday-Saturday. 702-202-6060
If you’re craving Louisiana cuisine, then LOLA’S KITCHEN is the place to go. You’ll find it here – jambalaya, New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, char-grilled oysters, po’ boys, catfish and grits, and even crawfish, if in season. 241 W. Charleston, Ste. 101, Holsum Lofts. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday; 12 noon – 10 p.m., Saturday. 702-227-5652
Don’t let the façade fool you – locals in the know head to THAI ORIGINAL BBQ + RESTAURANT for traditional Thai fare like sate, beef jerky and larb; plus of course, the house specialties, the BBQ chicken or pork spare ribs plates. 1424 S. Third Street. Open daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 702-383-1128
HARRY-O’S BBQ
1616 S. Las Vegas Boulevard. The newest kid on the barbecue-block, “Harry-O” started barbecuing at the age of six. He claims his ribs are so good, you don’t need sauce. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-12 a.m., Friday; 12 p.m.-12 a.m., Saturday. 702-385-0701
We suspect very little has changed at TIFFANY’S CAFÉ in over fifty years. The old-fashioned “lunch counter” located inside White Cross Drugs still serves comfort fare like burgers, eggs, steak, chops, pies, ice cream and more – and all at prices that won’t break the bank. Make sure you get a seat by the counter, to complete the experience. 1700 S. Las Vegas Boulevard. Open 24/7. 702-444-4459
DOWNTOWN DRINKS
• ART BAR
1511 S. Main Street, 702-437-2787
• ATOMIC LIQUOR’S COCKTAIL LOUNGE
917 Fremont Street, 702-384-7971
• BEAUTY BAR
517 Fremont Street, 702-598-1965
• CELEBRITY LAS VEGAS
201 N. Third Street, 702-384-2761
• COURTHOUSE BAR & GRILL
330 S. Third Street, 702-388-8222
• DINO’S LOUNGE
1516 S. Las Vegas Blvd., 702-382-3894
• DON’T TELL MAMA
517 E. Fremont Street, 702-207-0788
• DOWNTOWN COCKTAIL ROOM
111 S. Las Vegas Blvd., 702-880-3696
• 5th AVENUE PUB
906 S. Sixth Street, 702-385-5000
• GRIFFIN
511 Fremont Street, 702-382-0577
• HOGS & HEIFERS SALOON
201 N. Third Street, 702-676-1457
• SIDEBAR
201 N. Third Street, 702-259-9700
• SNICK’S PLACE
1402 S. Third Street, 702-385-9298
• STATESIDE LOUNGE
931 N. Las Vegas Boulevard, 702-382-2337
• VUE BAR
Fitz Las Vegas, 702-388-2400
DOWNTOWN SHOPPING
Off downtown’s beaten path is LAS VEGAS PREMIUM OUTLET – NORTH, which is home to 150 stores of name and designer brands such as Burberry, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Polo Ralph Lauren, Dooney & Bourke, Cole Haan, Juicy Couture and more. 875 South Grand Central Parkway. Open daily, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday-Saturday; till 8 p.m., Sunday. 702-474-7500
The newly-renovated HOLSUM LOFTS used to house a bakery that served the area’s locals in the fifties. Today, it is home to all things creative, with art galleries, a yoga studio, art studios and more. 231-241 W. Charleston Boulevard.
Since you love Las Vegas, why not take your favorite casino game home? Whether you prefer poker, roulette, blackjack and craps, GAMBLER’S GENERAL STORE is the world’s largest gambling retail superstore offering all the equipment you’ll need for your new table: cards, chips, dice, dealing shoes, even markers. They also manufacture custom poker chips so you can have some made for a family reunion, a wedding keepsake, as a business card or just for your at-home poker game. They will even ship any of their 5,000 unique items anywhere in the world. 800 S. Main Street. Open daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 702-382-9903
Antique stores adorn the downtown area, whether you’re looking for kitschy items or furniture that harks back to the fifties and sixties, you’ll find it here, in such places as THE FUNK HOUSE, 1228 S. Casino Center Boulevard, 702-678-6278, which specializes in ‘fifties modern’ furnishings and accessories ranging from art, glass and ceramic work, rugs and more.
MAIN STREET ANTIQUES, offers over 15,000 square feet of treasures from around the world. Don’t miss stopping by its famous “Tiki Room” or “The Mint Room” which highlights collectibles and memorabilia from Vegas’ vintage era. 500 Main Street. 702-382-1882
Locals in the know, or on the hunt for that perfect item, always make a stop at CHARLESTON ANTIQUE MALL. Featuring a unique and vast collection form over 40 dealers, half the fun is just looking at the extensive wares on display. 307 W. Charleston Boulevard. 702-228-4783
