Empanadas and Table-Side Queso Fundido Arrive on the Westside This Fall

Shiraz, the Indian, Pakistani, and Persian restaurant on the westside, permanently closed during the coronavirus pandemic, but a Mexican restaurant gets ready to take over the 8,000-square-foot space this fall.

Mariposa Cocina & Cocktails plans to open in the space, bringing a contemporary menu from executive chef Robert Lomeli, formerly at Top of the World at the Stratosphere and Hecho en Vegas at the MGM Grand, with the help of consultants Antonio Nunez of The Stove in Henderson and Lanny Chin of The Slanted Door at the Forum Shops at Caesars.

Mariposa Cocina & Cocktails [Official Site]

Lomeli describes the menu as a twist on traditional Mexican cuisine using high quality ingredients. That means a queso fundido a la raclette prepared table side, guacamole negro, empanadas de huitlacoche, vegetarian enchiladas del jardín, surf and turf tacos, and a churro bread pudding for dessert.

A collection of tequila and mezcal sits behind the bar. Later at the night, the lounge plans to feature live entertainment and a nightly hookah service.

• All Coverage of Shiraz [ELV]