Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife, dazzling shows, and, of course, its incredible food scene. I went to Vegas for a convention, and while I was excited about the trip, my schedule was packed. Between meetings and events, I didn’t have as much time as I’d hoped to explore many restaurants. Still, I managed to squeeze in some great meals — here’s where I ate in Vegas.
Breakfast Spots
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and in Vegas, it’s also one of the most exciting — here’s where I started my mornings.
Junior’s (Conrad Hilton Hotel)
One of my favorite breakfast spots during my trip was Junior’s, located in the Conrad Hilton Hotel. I had the corned beef hash, and it was perfect — crispy on the edges, tender inside, and packed with flavor. The portion was generous without being overwhelming, which is rare in Vegas.
And of course, I couldn’t leave without grabbing a slice of their Famous No. 1 Original Cheesecake to enjoy later in the day. If you visit, don’t skip this — it’s a must try!
The atmosphere was casual, with counter seating, tables in the dining room, and takeout options. It wasn’t too loud or hectic, which made it a great place to ease into the day.
Pro tip: This place gets busy. If you don’t want to wait in line, get there early.
Sun’s Out Buns Out
If you’re short on time but still want a good breakfast, Sun’s Out Buns Out is a solid choice. I grabbed their colossal breakfast sandwich, which wasn’t cheap, but it was absolutely worth it. It came loaded with fresh bacon and a tangy sauce. It was both filling and flavorful.
It’s a quick, casual spot that works well if you need something on the go. Since my mornings were usually rushed, this was a lifesaver.
Lunch and Casual Eats
When it comes to lunch and casual dining in Vegas, the options are endless, but this was my top pick for quick bites and satisfying meals.
Siegel’s Bagelmania
One afternoon, I decided to switch things up and go to Siegel’s Bagelmania. I ordered a giant corned beef sandwich and a bowl of matzo ball soup. Both were fresh and delicious, making for a nice change from the usual Strip fare.
The place had a busy deli vibe, and there was even some outdoor seating, which was great for a quick, relaxed meal. Just like with Junior’s, getting there early is a good idea if you want to avoid the crowds.
Dinner and Iconic Spots
Dinner in Vegas is an experience in itself, and these iconic spots delivered unforgettable meals that were worth every penny.
Bacchanal Buffet (Caesars Palace)
I couldn’t visit Vegas without feasting at a buffet, and Bacchanal was the obvious choice. It’s easily one of the best buffets on the Strip, with a ridiculous variety of food. There was seafood, BBQ, pasta, pizza, Asian dishes, vegan options — you name it. And the desserts? Incredible.
Pro tip: Go for lunch. It’s cheaper than dinner, but if you stay past 3 PM, they start bringing out even more seafood.
Viva (Conrad Hilton)
After a long day at the convention, I stopped by Viva for happy hour, and it was terrific. Their margaritas with salt foam were outstanding, and the queso fundido — spicy, cheesy, and served with fresh tortillas — was delish!
The atmosphere was lively but not too loud, making it a great place to unwind. If you’re looking for good food and drinks in a fun setting, this is a solid pick. And don’t skip happy hour — the deals are worth it.
Peppermill
Named an American classic by the James Beard Foundation, this restaurant lives up to its reputation. Opening its doors in 1972, the Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge has remained a nostalgic reminder of the Vegas Strip as it used to be. The portions were huge, the food was comforting, and the retro vibe made the whole experience memorable.
I feasted on a giant bowl of creamy potato soup — perfect for a chilly Vegas night — and a cheesesteak with fries. The portions were massive, and the food was exactly what I needed after a long day. If you want something hearty in an old-school Vegas setting, Peppermill is the place to go.
Carver Steak (Resorts World)
For a fancier dinner, I went to Carver Steak, and it was absolutely worth the splurge. Their French onion soup was amazing — I could taste the collagen in the beefy broth. The main event was a ribeye that was cooked to perfection — melt-in-your-mouth tender, flavorful, and just the right amount of char. The atmosphere was upscale but not stuffy, and the service was top-notch.
Pro tip: Get a drink from the martini cart!
The Convention Center Food
Unfortunately, not everything on this trip was a win. The food at the convention center was, to put it mildly, disappointing. Everything was overpriced and underwhelming. I paid $6 for a bottle of water and struggled to find even a decent muffin.
Lesson learned: if you’re attending an event at the Las Vegas Convention Center, plan ahead. Bring snacks, and eat before you get there whenever possible.
Final Thoughts
While my schedule kept me from trying as many places as I wanted, I still managed to have some great meals in Vegas. Junior’s, Bacchanal Buffet, and Carver Steak were the standouts and even the quick spots like Sun’s Out Buns Out delivered.
If you’re planning a trip, my best advice is to make reservations, explore beyond the Strip, and take advantage of happy hours. And if you’ve been to Vegas recently, I’d love to hear your recommendations — drop them in the comments!