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Positioned at the intersection of urban development and desert wilderness, Summerlin has long been defined by its lush golf courses and crimson cliffs. But thanks to new developments such as Downtown Summerlin, the community named after Howard Hughes’ grandmother is seeing a burgeoning population with a growing appetite for dining options. From Sunday brunch to post-hike tacos, there are always new dishes to try in Summerlin. Whether your weekend plans include climbing in Red Rock Canyon or shopping at Downtown Summerlin, here are five restaurants to add to your agenda.
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Sushi tacos
The sushi burrito trend has officially swept the Las Vegas Valley. Former Nobu executive chef Karu Wedhas’ Tail & Fin offers a fresh take on the popular Japanese-Mexican fusion dish with the introduction of sushi tacos served with your choice of fish and sauce. Build-your-own sushi burritos, poke bowls and salads are also on the menu.
Tail & Fin, 1910 Village Center Circle, #9; 702-790-1810
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Happy hour margaritas
Every day is Cinco de Mayo at Casa del Matador. The Downtown Summerlin Mexican restaurant stocks more than 120 tequilas, any of which can serve as the perfect addition to a fresh margarita. Menu highlights include goat cheese-stuffed jalapeños wrapped in bacon and house-made pork chorizo tacos. Happy hour is served seven days a week from 4 to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to close.
Casa del Matador, 1770 Festival Plaza Drive, #190; 702-228-2766
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Cajun brunch
For Louisiana visitors missing home or Las Vegas locals looking to try something new, Lola’s — A Louisiana Kitchen offers a distinctly Cajun brunch menu. Louisiana devotees and adventurous diners alike will find something to spice up the mid-day meal. Bronzed catfish with Gouda grits and classic chicken and sausage jambalaya are just two of the favorite dishes. Bottomless mimosas are a must with any dish.
Lola’s A Louisiana Kitchen, 1220 N. Town Center Drive; 702-871-5652
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Authentic Thai
Head chef Nittaya Parawong was practically raised in her parents’ restaurant in Thailand. Luckily for Las Vegas, she brought those family recipes to her authentic Thai restaurant in Summerlin. Nittaya’s Secret Kitchen serves Northern Thai specialties such as curry noodles with slow-cooked pork shoulder along with Southern Thai dishes including crispy fried Cornish game hen. Ginger-lemongrass crème brûlée makes for a sweet ending to any meal.
Nittaya’s Secret Kitchen, 2110 N. Rampart Blvd., #110; 702-360-8885
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That Downtown Summerlin coffee craving
Downtown Summerlin caffeine addicts rejoice! The need for a coffee shop that isn’t the Starbucks inside Macy’s has been met thanks to Makers & Finders. The Arts District favorite has found plenty of well-deserved success on the west side of town thanks to its signature lavender lattes and Latin American comfort food. Diners can expect everything from coconut-turmeric lattes to a lively brunch featuring arepas, empanadas and vegetarian and vegan options.
Makers & Finders, 2120 Festival Plaza Drive, #140; 702-586-8255
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