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The Las Vegas Lights FC debuted to a sold-out crowd of 10,387 at Cashman Field. The stadium was electric with fans, bringing renewed interest in the oft-forgotten field, which opened in 1983. Over the years, Cashman Field has played host to MLS exhibition games and most notably the Las Vegas 51s, who will be moving to a new ballpark in Summerlin in 2019.
Conveniently situated just minutes from Fremont Street and the Arts District, Cashman Field’s location makes it easy for Lights fans or those attending other events to find something to eat besides the usual beer and hot dog fare that’s typically associated with sports venues. Whether it’s a pre-game dinner or a quick snack before heading to the stadium, here are five restaurants to try near Cashman Field this weekend.
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Steaks and martinis
Downtown’s swanky Triple George Grill is the ideal spot for a classic Vegas dinner before heading to Cashman Field. Diners can swing by for happy hour and order beer, wine, and cocktail specials plus half-off appetizers or settle in for oysters, lobster tail, and steaks. Classic and re-imagined martinis make for a perfect beginning or end to any meal — especially when temperatures are warm enough for sidewalk dining.
Triple George Grill, Downtown Grand, 201 N. Third St.; 702-384-2761
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Late-night pizza
Located just far enough off the beaten path to be considered a true local’s spot, Boston Pizza, a favorite of the gang on Pawn Stars, offers wings, pizza, burgers, stromboli, and subs in a laid-back setting. Dine-in, carry-out and delivery are available. Best of all, the restaurant is open until 3:30 a.m. for all of those late-night pizza cravings.
Boston Pizza, 1507 Las Vegas Blvd. S.; 702-385-2595
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Seasonal Italian
The sunny, minimalist space makes Esther’s Kitchen the talk of the Arts District — as does the food, which is prepared in modern Italian style with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is just a short drive from Cashman Field, but the menu feels worlds away with items including yellow crudo with chili oil, bucatini all’amatriciana with pomodoro, and sourdough pizza topped with lamb sausage and chopped clams. After drinks, appetizers, and dinner at Esther’s, diners might feel compelled to buy the kitchen a round of beers — an option for $6 — a small token of gratitude for a priceless dining experience.
Esther’s Kitchen, 1130 S. Casino Center Blvd.; 702-570-7864
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Tequila with a side of scorpion
Those in search of the ultimate pre-game ritual before heading to Cashman Field just might find it in Nacho Daddy’s Scorpion Shot: tequila and a real (but fortunately no longer live) scorpion. More traditional beverage options are available in the form of blood orange, blackberry, pomegranate, and other specialty margaritas, as are the restaurant’s eponymous nachos. Diners can choose from expected varieties such as enchilada nachos or opt for more creative versions like Thai chicken nachos served with sweet chili sauce, pickled jalapenos and queso.
Nacho Daddy, 113 N. Fourth St.; 702-778-7800
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A gourmet take on stadium hot dogs
Ballparks are practically synonymous with hot dogs, but that’s no reasons to subsist on the standard stadium variety alone. For a fun twist on a classic hot dog, Cheffini’s is the place to go. Located inside the Downtown Container Park, Cheffini’s serves beef, turkey and vegan hot dogs with unique toppings including pineapple sauce, pork belly, and pickled mango. The Moshi-Moshi, a grilled frank topped with seaweed, wine sauce and jalapeno, is an especially unique choice.
Cheffini’s, 701 Fremont St. #1050; 702-527-7599
• A Guide to the Restaurants in Downtown Las Vegas’ Fremont East [ELV]
• Where To Dine in the Arts District [ELV]
• Where To Dine Near the Fremont Street Experience [ELV]
• Explore The Neighborhoods of Las Vegas at These Great Restaurants [ELV]