Top Vegas Picks 2026
Las Vegas dining doesn’t just evolve — it resets the bar every year. New rooms open, chefs refine their concepts, and suddenly the places worth your time look very different than they did even twelve months ago.
These are the restaurants I’m genuinely excited about in 2026. Not just because they’re new or trendy, but because they deliver on experience, consistency, and value in a city that doesn’t forgive mediocrity.
Carbone Riviera
Carbone Riviera is the definition of a Vegas power move restaurant in 2026.
This is hands-down one of the newest and hottest reservations in the city, and unlike many hyped openings, it actually delivers. The space feels grand without being overwhelming, the energy is unmistakably high-end, and the entire experience is designed to feel indulgent from the moment you sit down.
The menu leans into rich, classic Italian-American flavors with confidence. Portions are generous, dishes are polished, and everything feels intentional. It’s a place where ordering boldly is encouraged. If you’re looking for a restaurant that feels like a destination rather than just dinner, Carbone Riviera sets the tone.
Partage
Partage has quietly become my go-to restaurant for meaningful celebrations.
It offers a Michelin-star experience without the intimidating or pretentious edge that sometimes comes with fine dining. Pricing feels fair for the level of execution, and the overall experience is thoughtful, refined, and deeply satisfying.
What really sets Partage apart is the trust factor. Menus evolve, dishes change, and yet every course arrives with a sense of confidence and care. You don’t need to micromanage your order here — the kitchen simply brings you incredible food, paced perfectly, with flavors that feel both elegant and comforting. You just pick how many courses you’d like to enjoy.
If you’re marking a milestone or want a night that feels truly special, this is where I point people. And then go party at Golden Tiki right after 😉
Esther's Kitchen
Esther’s Kitchen continues to be one of the most reliable restaurants in Las Vegas.
The food is consistently fantastic, the cocktails are thoughtfully crafted, and the overall atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between casual and elevated. It’s the kind of place where everything on the menu feels safe to order — which is rare.
Rather than overthinking it, I always recommend leaning into what sounds good in the moment. Pastas, small plates, seasonal dishes, cocktails — they all deliver. It works equally well for a relaxed dinner, a date night, or bringing friends who want something authentic and well-executed without pretense.
This is downtown dining done right.
High Steaks
High Steaks is one of the most pleasantly surprising steakhouse experiences in Las Vegas right now.
The newly refreshed dining room feels modern and comfortable, and the views alone elevate the experience before food even arrives. Pricing is reasonable by Vegas steakhouse standards, which immediately makes this place stand out.
Then there’s the bread — legitimately memorable and worth mentioning on its own. From there, the steaks are well-executed, the service is attentive without hovering, and the entire experience feels relaxed rather than overly formal.
If you want a steakhouse that feels polished, welcoming, and genuinely enjoyable without being over-the-top, High Steaks is an easy recommendation.
Wakuda
Wakuda delivers exactly what you expect from a high-end Japanese restaurant on the Strip — and does it well.
The space is sleek and refined, the menu is broad enough to appeal to different tastes, and the execution is consistent across the board. It’s not trying to reinvent Japanese cuisine, but rather present it confidently and cleanly in a luxury setting.
This is a strong choice for business dinners, group outings, or nights when you want something polished and dependable. No surprises, no missteps — just a well-run restaurant that knows its lane.
Jardin
Jardin remains one of my favorite brunch spots in Las Vegas.
The space is bright, calm, and elegant without feeling stiff. The fruit plate is a standout — fresh, beautifully presented, and exactly what you want to start the morning. Pair it with a lox bagel and one of their playful yet refined cocktails, and you’re set.
It’s only open for brunch, but that’s part of the charm. Jardin feels intentional, unrushed, and perfectly suited for a late morning meal that sets the tone for the rest of your day.
Casa Don Juan
Casa Don Juan is a downtown staple that continues to deliver.
The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, the food is comforting and familiar, and the menu doesn’t chase trends for the sake of it. This is solid Mexican food done consistently well.
The flautas are my personal favorite and the dish I return to every time. Whether you’re grabbing a casual dinner or meeting friends for a relaxed night out, Casa Don Juan feels dependable in a city that changes constantly.
Final Thoughts
These are the places I trust, recommend, and return to — not just because they’re popular, but because they’re worth it.
If you’re planning where to eat this year, this list is a strong place to start.
Check out the 2025 List - https://www.ryansalinas.com/blog/top-vegas-picks-2025
Check out the 2024 List - https://www.ryansalinas.com/blog/vegas-top-picks-2024
Check out the 2023 List - https://www.ryansalinas.com/blog/top-vegas-picks-2023
Check out the 2022 List - https://www.ryansalinas.com/blog/2022-vegas-recommendations
