This January, I finally checked off a bucket-list event: attending the Fancy Food Show 2025 in Las Vegas! It was an exciting whirlwind of meeting incredible vendors and tasting an array of gourmet foods. I’ll be dedicating a whole post to that experience soon, so stay tuned. But for now, let me tell you all about the Vegas food, wine, and cocktail scene outside of the show!

Staying at Virgin Hotel: A Foodie’s Dream

Our home base was the Virgin Hotel, which offered easy access to the Strip and a great food and drink scene right inside the hotel. Their bar whipped up some of the best espresso martinis I’ve had in a while, and their steakhouse boasted fantastic live music that added just the right touch to dinner.

But the true standout? Chef Xue, an upscale Chinese restaurant that absolutely stole my heart! Not only was the food incredible, but the natural wine list was a revelation. One standout pairing? Their “Fruit Loops” red wine with a spread of sticky wings, dumplings, and just about everything else we ordered. Every bite was phenomenal, and I would fly back to Vegas just to visit this spot again!

For a change of pace, we also tried Kassi Beach, an Italian restaurant that brings the beach vibe to the desert. Their menu of Italian classics was perfect for a laid-back brunch, especially with their “rosé all day” special. It was the perfect way to kick off our Vegas trip.

More On-Strip Highlights

One night, we dined at Red 8, where I had the best duck, fried rice, and cucumber salad I’ve ever tasted. The service was top-notch, and the wine list was excellent—such a nice touch. Another standout meal was at Jaleo, the tapas restaurant inside the Cosmopolitan. The food was absolutely fabulous, and the wine list? Incredible! As a very happy Somm, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

Speaking of the Cosmopolitan, it remains one of my favorite hotels in Vegas. But this time, I also checked out

Vanderpump Paris inside the Paris Las Vegas. I’ve been a fan of the show from the old days, so seeing one of Lisa Vanderpump’s spots in person was a total highlight. Surprisingly, there wasn’t even a wait, which made it all the more enjoyable.

When we wanted to relax and unwind, we visited Davidoff Cigars, a bar on the Strip with a fun vibe. However, the Montecristo Cigar Bar inside the Paris Hotel was even better for cocktails—like way, way better. It’s a perfect spot to sip and chill after a busy day.

Off-the-Strip Gems: Vegas Valley Winery

If you’re looking to explore beyond the Strip, just a short 30-minute drive will take you to Vegas Valley Winery in Henderson. Since its founding in 2018, this winery has become a hub for wine lovers and locals. They offer fun wine blending classes, memberships, and social events like Wine Wednesdays, live music Fridays, and guided meditations paired with their house-made wines and ciders. Their community spirit is just as impressive as their wine, as they frequently support local charities and nonprofits.

A Must-Visit Italian Spot: Azzurra Cucina Italiana

Craving more Italian? Head over to Azzurra Cucina Italiana, another off-the-strip favorite. Chef Allessandra’s Meatballs are a fan-favorite, but people can’t get enough of the grilled octopus. Their pork chop agrodolce and traditional pastas are also show-stoppers. Pair your meal with Azzurra’s signature Perfect Negroni, and you’ve got a meal that’s as close to perfect as it gets.

Las Vegas may be known for its glitz and glamour, but its food scene is equally exciting, whether you’re on the Strip or venturing beyond it. Next time you’re in town, skip the tourist traps and check out these delicious spots!

Stay tuned for my Fancy Food Show roundup, and happy eating, drinking, and exploring!