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When most people think of Las Vegas wildlife, they picture gambling, sprawling nightclubs, great chefs with outposts in Las Vegas, and over-the-top entertainment. But for those who enjoy Aztec sandstone cliffs and winding canyons as much they enjoy drinking champagne on Las Vegas Boulevard, Red Rock Canyon offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s neon chaos. Located just 17 miles from the Strip, the national conservation area is a haven for hikers, rock climbers and tourists who could use a break from the blackjack table.
Fortunately, no matter what the adventure is in Red Rock Canyon, there are plenty of nearby restaurants available to fuel it. From a western saloon to a post-hike brunch spot, here are five restaurants to try near Red Rock Canyon.
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Cinnamon biscuits for breakfast
Natalie Young’s Summerlin expansion of her popular Downtown Las Vegas mainstay serves a breakfast and lunch menu that’s tailor-made for a day in Red Rock Canyon. Early-risers can order a truffled egg sandwich with wild mushrooms before hitting the trail, while afternoon diners can savor a chicken pesto sandwich topped with local baby greens. And no matter what the time of day is, consider Eat’s cinnamon biscuits served with warm strawberry compote a necessary indulgence.
Eat Summerlin Proper, 1910 Village Center Circle; 702-848-1897
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Western barbecue on a ranch
For a delightfully kitschy western outpost experience, Bonnie Springs Ranch Restaurant brings a family-friendly dining experience situated against the Spring Mountains. The restaurant serves country-style breakfast, lunch and dinner in a dimly lit saloon setting. For breakfast, hearty fare such as steak and eggs and biscuits and gravy rule the menu, while for lunch and dinner, the menu offers steak, meatloaf and a selection of barbecue favorites such as ribs and chicken served with baked beans and corn.
Bonnie Springs Ranch Restaurant, 1 Gunfighter Lane, Blue Diamond; 702-875-4300
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Healthy fast casual
If the fresh desert air of Red Rock Canyon inspires a desire for similarly fresh food, Krayvings has the answer. Created with hikers, rock climbers and cyclists in mind, the casual restaurant serves healthy wraps, smoothies, sandwiches and bowls with an emphasis on protein and fresh produce. Menu items such as the egg white and sweet potato hash breakfast wrap (served all day) and the Tuscan chicken and prosciutto sandwich are perfect for tossing into a backpack before a hike, and protein plates like shrimp and sweet chili with quinoa are ideal for refueling.
Krayvings, 11770 W. Charleston Blvd.; 702-945-0520
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Post-hike brunch
The sleek, crimson design of Red Rock Casino effortlessly captures the way the surrounding urban area aligns with desert wilderness. Hearthstone Kitchen & Cellar, located inside the resort, follows suit with a rustic contemporary menu featuring dishes such as coconut cream and fresh fruit and a Brussels sprout Caesar salad. For the ultimate post-hike indulgence, Hearthstone’s liquid brunch features Bubbles for Breakfast — Mumm sparkling wine accompanied by juice, fruit and a dozen oysters.
Hearthstone, 11011 W. Charleston Blvd.; 702-797-7344
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Comfort food for breakfast
Fair warning: this comfort food-focused breakfast and lunch spot just might inspire an after breakfast nap instead of a day of hiking. But with sumptuous menu items such as the Benedict Ole (poached eggs and Hollandaise topped with chicken and green chilis) and peanut butter cream cheese stuffed French toast, it’s hard to be too upset. In addition to breakfast favorites, The Cracked Egg also serves sandwiches, salads and an impressive gluten-free menu.
The Cracked Egg, 9921 W. Charleston Blvd.; 702-476-4204
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