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The Eastern European region is an incredibly expansive mass of land that is often defined more by its cultures and customs than by the actual countries that comprise it. The cuisine varies from country to country, but there are notable similarities that exist across different types of Eastern European food. Culinary traditions are rooted in ingredients such as red meat, dark breads, rich stews, and a particular salty or pickled taste.
The fair-weathered city of Las Vegas may not seem like the ideal setting for the kind of hearty Eastern European dishes that are commonly associated with cold climates, but when the surprisingly chilly winter bears down on the Mojave Desert, these Eastern European restaurants in Las Vegas are the perfect place to enjoy a meal.
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European tapas
Located in the Spring Valley, Forte European Tapas introduces a fusion take on Eastern European cuisine that includes small plates and generous, classic recipes. Diners can share French fries topped with Bulgarian feta and move onto beef Stroganoff, Hungarian goulash or Bulgarian Easter lamb with arugula whipped potatoes.
Forte Tapas, 4180 S. Rainbow Blvd., Suite 806; 702-220-3876
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Vodka and caviar
The darkened corners of Red Square offer an escape from the crowded casino floor of Mandalay Bay. Here, diners can order caviar by the ounce or opt for a tasting with five different types. Also available by the flight is the modern Russian restaurant’s vodka selection. Diners who order flights of vodka are treated to fur coats and a tour of the below-freezing vodka fault, which features the decapitated head of a Lenin statue encased in ice.
Red Square, Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. S.; 702-632-7407
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Bulgarian fare
BG Bistro offers an extensive menu of Bulgarian dishes just moments from the Strip. The restaurant serves classics such as red peppers stuffed with Bulgarian feta cheese, tripe in butter, and chicken kavarma. Also available are American menu items such as barbecue chicken pizza and french fries.
BG Bistro, 6160 W. Tropicana Ave.; 702-222-9003
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A local favorite
Tucked away in a plaza on Decatur Boulevard, Tina’s Gourmet Sausage House is a European deli known for its selection of homemade sausages. The Polish sausage plate with fried potatoes is a solid choice whether it’s enjoyed in-house or as a to-go order. Other popular menu items include borscht soup, blintzes with red caviar, and pork kabobs with rice.
Tina’s Gourmet Sausage House, 2101 S. Decatur Blvd.; 702-850-8333
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