Steakhouses are just as glamorous and filled with stories as Vegas is. See how steakhouses have had an impact on the city and where you can relive some of the elegance and magic today.
Transport yourself back in time to vintage Vegas and you’ll see a vastly different city than what you have come to know and love today. Throughout the 50s, 60s, and 70s, Las Vegas was the go-to destination for glitz, glamour, and believe it or not, the mafia. Beautiful showgirls were the headlining attraction, flashy activities like zip lining and aquariums didn’t exist, kids were left at home, and Las Vegas’ Original Shrimp Cocktail® was only 99 cents.
The entertainment was more simple back then—gambling, dining, and shows. A-list celebrities were often spotted around town, the Rat Pack ran the Strip, and classic steak joints were the coolest places to eat.
While the Golden Era of Vegas may be over, you can still get a taste of some of the quintessential steakhouses that charmed the city decades ago. Travel back in time to old school Las Vegas with these historic Las Vegas steakhouses.
The Golden Steer is perhaps the most iconic Las Vegas steakhouse because it was one of the first to make an appearance in the city. Built in 1958, the Golden steer has fought the test of time and thrived as the longest-running steakhouse in Vegas. Hollywood stars like Elvis Presley, Joe DiMaggio, Frank Sinatra, and the rest of the Rat Pack have all sat down at a table here.
Located just off the Strip, Golden Steer is your gateway into the past. Tuxedoed waiters, red leather banquettes, rolling champagne carts, and western art come together to create a truly authentic dining experience just like you would’ve seen 50 years ago.
If you want to immerse yourself in Las Vegas history, Binion’s Hotel & Casino is one of the best places to go. Head up to the top floor and you’ll find a piece of history at Top of Binion’s Steakhouse. This famous Las Vegas restaurant predates the moon landing and was relocated within Binion’s in 1994. Enjoy a simple menu with dry-aged, grass-fed, corn-finished steaks and their signature dish, Chicken Fried Lobster, that was specially created for Merle Haggard way back when.
Next up on the list of historic steakhouses is Bob Taylor’s Ranch House. A more rustic approach to dining, this famous Las Vegas restaurant opened back in 1955 and is still open today serving some delicious steaks. Bob’s Ranch is known for its western-themed charm. With John Wayne posters, cowboy memorabilia from Hollywood stars, and steaks grilled on mesquite wood, this restaurant was the definition of a western steakhouse.
Head to downtown Vegas and keep your eyes peeled for Four Queens Hotel & Casino because that’s the home of Hugo’s Cellar, one of the best steakhouses in Las Vegas. This vintage joint is almost 50 years old and still open to this day. With its romantic ambiance, dim lighting, strong martinis, and char-broiled steaks, Hugo’s immediately gives you a look back into vintage Vegas.
Tableside presentations of servers making Bananas Foster, a surprisingly unchanged menu, tuxedoed wait staff, and a signature salad cart are just a few of the traditions this restaurant carries on to preserve the spirit of its younger days.
Circus Circus is all about the Big Top and its restaurant, The Steakhouse, is all about the big flavors. It has been carrying on the classic steakhouse tradition for over 30 years now with no end in sight, and the food says it all. This award-winning restaurant prides itself on prime-cut steaks that are aged and prepared exhibition-style over a mesquite charcoal broiler.
As you tip your hat to the Golden Era of Vegas, take time to mix in the new with the old. Treat yourself to juicy steaks and gorgeous ambiance at a few of the best steakhouses in Las Vegas today.
Andiamo is a gem tucked within the D Hotel & Casino in downtown Las Vegas. Combining a mix of premium American steaks and Italian favorites, this Las Vegas steakhouse should be at the top of your list. Using the nation’s finest butchers and all natural Strauss® lamb, veal, and premium free-range chicken, this restaurant cooks up mouthwatering dishes. Try their lamb chops or New York Strip and pair with one of their delicious wines. Be sure to book a table in advance so you can enjoy one of the best steakhouses in Las Vegas the next time you visit.
Just because you’re embracing the modern side of Vegas doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate the nostalgia of the past. One of the newest hotels in Vegas, Circa Resort, has just debuted Barry’s Downtown Prime and it’s a history buff’s dream. This brand new Las Vegas steakhouse brings guests back to the 50s and 60s with rich leathers, deep velvet tones, antique mirrors, burnished brass, and a glitzy gold ceiling. Order your filet mignon and dine in elegance at this vintage-style steakhouse in downtown Vegas!
Visit the MGM Grand and sit down at Craftsteak for a unique steakhouse experience. Craftsteak takes a different approach with their food preparation by focusing on antibiotic-free beef sourced from the world’s top ranchers and artisanal producers. They also dry-age their meat in the restaurant’s aging room as well. Order braised wagyu brisket with bourbon demi-glace or a braised beef short rib and your definition of “excellent steak” will forever be changed!
Throughout the decades, the Las Vegas steakhouse has been a staple for tourists, celebrities, and locals alike. Whether you want to step back in time at the city’s longest-running steakhouses or prefer the newest and hottest destinations, Vegas has it all. On your next visit, book your stay at the D Hotel & Casino to ensure you’re closest to some of the best steakhouses in Las Vegas!
