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It’s no secret that Downtown Las Vegas is in the midst of a culinary renaissance. As restaurants continue to open, close and evolve all along Fremont Street, fresh dining options for the weekend emerge. From a historic watering hole’s long-awaited restaurant addition to a Vietnamese kitchen that’s poised to become a Downtown staple, these five restaurants are worthy of a place on your weekend agenda.
Your grilled cheese obsession at Bin 702
Since the opening of the Downtown Container Park, Bin 702 has served a wide selection of wine, cocktails, draft beer and light meals in a small setting. Thoughtfully curated charcuterie boards complete with fig jam and olives can be paired with a carafe of Sangiovese, but the real stars of the menu are the artisanal grilled cheese sandwiches. Opt for a classier version with lobster and gouda or indulge with the Flamin’ Hot Cheeto sandwich’s signature, spicy cheese spread.
Bin 702, 707 Fremont St., #1220; 702-826-2702
Your long-awaited meal at The Kitchen at Atomic
In the 1950s, patrons at Atomic Liquors would climb onto the roof to watch bombs go off at the nearby nuclear testing site. Earlier this month, a much more welcome explosion — one of the culinary variety — happened next door. Chef Josh Horton’s much-anticipated restaurant companion to the oldest freestanding bar in Las Vegas serves a rotating menu of innovative gastropub food. Expect bar staples like chicken wings with the surprising addition of a pepperoni pizza waffle along with classic main courses like beef tenderloin topped with foie gras butter.
The Kitchen at Atomic, 917 Fremont St.; 702-982-3000
Your curry craving at Turmeric Flavors of India
Since opening in October of last year, this infusion of traditional Indian flavor has been a welcome addition to the already vibrant Downtown restaurant scene. Turmeric Flavors of India serves family style curry pots, tandoori marinated lamb and a variety of vegan and gluten free options in their main dining room. Come sunset, a rooftop bar with expansive views sets the stage for happy hour and beyond.
Turmeric Flavors of India, 700 Fremont St.; 702-906-2700
Your romantic Italian dinner at Chicago Joe’s
At first glance, Chicago Joe’s has the appearance of a cozy brick home nestled amongst the neon of Downtown. Inside, the intimate setting and authentic Italian dishes reflect the homey setting. Start the evening with fresh antipasto or mussels marinara and then dig into classic pasta dishes like eggplant parmigiana and spaghetti with meatballs.
Chicago Joe's, 820 S. Fourth St.; 702-382-5637
Your pho fix at Le Pho
District One Kitchen & Bar executive chef Khai Vu’s Vietnamese offering to Downtown Las Vegas is worth the journey away from the flashing lights of Fremont Street. Located on the ground floor of the Juhl, Le Pho serves oxtail bone marrow fried rice, wok tossed filet mignon, fried tofu bahn mi and of course, its namesake herbaceous pho.
Le Pho, 353 Bonneville #115; 702-382-0209
—Krista Diamond