Category: Dining at the Plaza

6 Great Coffee Shops in Downtown Las Vegas

Posted on | by Plaza Hotel
Downtown Las Vegas has it all — glitzy casinos, incredible shopping and dining, and an array of excellent coffee shops. Fuel up for your Vegas adventure with a cup of java at one of these downtown hotspots:

Coffee Bar

Located inside the Plaza Hotel is Coffee Bar — a warm and welcoming cafe famous for its amazing gelato and a tempting array of coffee drinks. Enjoy a Latte, Chai Tea, or Americano coffee. Also, on the menu is Cappuccino, Cafe Moka, and much more. In the mood for an intense jolt? Coffe Bar also sells single and double Italian-style espresso shots with soy milk and flavor shot additions available.

The Beat

The Beat is a coffee house that also serves as a restaurant, vinyl record shop, and performing arts venue. Despite the fact that beer and wine are also served here, this establishment is open to all ages — all the time. Choose from coffee choices like traditional drip-style, lattes, cappuccinos, mochas, and more. If you’re hungry, The Beat also serves breakfast, soup, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers.

Makers & Finders

This urban coffee bar is a local favorite for its uplifting atmosphere, Latin cuisine, and last but not least — its coffee. Select your favorite brew from five single origin bean choices, then customize your coffee with tempting house-made flavor syrups. Coffee is brewed seven different ways at Makers & Finders — no matter how you like your java prepared, this unique establishment is sure to please.
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PublicUs

Vegas locals and visitors alike love PublicUs for its friendly staff, breakfast dishes, and an array of coffee drinks. Whether you take your brew hot or iced, black or sweetened, you’ll find an ideal beverage. Consider the Shaken Almond Latte, which is available hot or iced. This cafe has a variety of flavor syrups so you can customize your coffee to suit your tastes.

Bronze Cafe

You’ll find the charming Bronze Cafe tucked into the LGBTQ Community Center. On the menu is an array of vegan dishes, however, there are also items featuring bacon jam — a customer favorite. When it comes to coffee, both hot and iced brews are made to suit any taste. Pair your coffee with something sweet, like a Fruity Pebbles Treat — made with vegan marshmallows — or Blueberry Coffee Cake.
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Hash House A Go Go

Last but not least on our list of great places to get coffee in Vegas is Hash House A Go Go, a Plaza restaurant that specializes in breakfast dishes but also serves lunch and dinner. While you here, be sure to indulge in the famous S’mores Mocha or one of Hash House’s unique latte offerings including the Banana Latte or Frosted Mint Latte.

The Best Pizza Joints in Downtown Las Vegas

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Although Las Vegas is full of incredible restaurants serving every cuisine imaginable, sometimes only pizza will do. When you’re in the mood for a slice or two, look no further than Downtown Las Vegas for an array of delicious pizza joints. Here are our favorites.

Pop Up Pizza

Enjoy some of the city’s best pizza without ever leaving your hotel. The Plaza is home to Pop Up Pizza, an establishment with a cozy, welcoming ambiance and an array of tempting menu items.

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For a taste of the traditional, try the 18b — a classic pizza made with whole-milk mozzarella. Or, opt for the 5th Street — a pie that’s piled high with caramelized onions, roasted mushrooms, and pepperoni. Pair your pizza with a side such as onion rings or mozzarella sticks.

Boston Pizza

For pizza, wings, and more, visit Boston Pizza. This establishment offers dine-in, carryout, and even delivery for your convenience. On the menu, you’ll find an array of pizza choices including the Boston Vegetarian and the Boston Meat Lover’s. If you want something other than pizza or wings, Boston Pizza has burgers, pasta, and even fish.

Pizza Rock

Another favorite pizza establishment in downtown Vegas is Pizza Rock, which features incredible pies crafted by award-winning chef Gemignani. Start off with an appetizer like White Wine Clams or Classic Meatballs, then satisfy your pizza craving with a New York-style, Chicago-style, or Sicilian-style pie. Also on the menu are strombolis, calzones, and more. For dessert, try Tony’s Tiramisu or the decadent Mud Pie.

Anthony’s New York Pizza & Deli

Head to Anthony’s New York Pizza & Deli for an authentic taste of the Big Apple right in downtown Vegas. This restaurant doesn’t only serve pizza; you’ll also find an assortment of breakfast dishes, pasta, strombolis, and calzones. Popular pies at this establishment include the Hawaiian Pizza, which comes with ham and pineapple, and the Double Decker Pizza, which features two layers of meaty toppings and melted cheese.

Other Dining Options at the Plaza

In addition to Pop Up Pizza, the Plaza offers other dining options to satisfy your cravings, including Oscar’s Steakhouse, the Beer Garden, and the Food Court to name just a few. Of course, most of the pizza restaurants in Downtown Las Vegas are happy to deliver, so you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your suite to enjoy a delicious slice.

The Best Happy Hour Hotspots in Downtown Las Vegas

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Las Vegas is a city that has most everything you can imagine, including some great places to have a drink. Whether you’re a visitor to the city or a resident entertaining friends or family from out of town, you’ll find an array of happy hour hotspots within convenient walking distance of each other. Here are some of our favorites.

Velveteen Rabbit

The locally-loved Velveteen Rabbit bar has happy hour every day except during the monthly First Friday events. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., you’ll save $2 on specialty cocktails, $2 off beer, $4 off well drinks and $1 off any other menu items.

Commonwealth

Enjoy happy hour at this cocktail lounge — inspired by the pre-Prohibition era — from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Well cocktails and domestic beers are only $3; premium cocktails and craft beers are reduced to $5. Music and a rooftop patio make this bar a favorite of locals and visitors like.

Therapy

Therapy is a hip Vegas haunt with happy hour daily from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., as well as on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights from 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Menu items include draft beer, handmade sangria, and signature cocktails. Be sure to try the refreshing Deal Maker, a combination of Hana Gin, grapefruit, maraschino, and fresh lemon-lime soda.

Fizz

Champagne lovers, rejoice! From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. (or 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.), Fizz offers the Bottomless Bubbles deal. You will get unlimited glasses of J. Roget Champagne during the two-hour period for only $36. Pair your bubbly with a delicious offering from the menu such as Caviar on the Rocks or Wagyu & Horseradish Panini Bites.

Oscar’s Steakhouse

Of course, you don’t even need to leave your hotel in Downtown Las Vegas to enjoy a fabulous happy hour. Just head to Oscar’s Steakhouse at the Plaza from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. every Sunday through Thursday for great deals on drinks and food. Not sure what to try first? Oscar’s is famous for its steaks, of course, but you also don’t want to miss the signature martinis. Taking advantage of great happy hours in Downtown Las Vegas is an excellent way to get more bang for your buck. No matter what kind of libations you are looking for, you are sure to find them at one of these great happy hours.

5 Great Dessert Spots in Downtown Las Vegas

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There’s always room for dessert, especially when you’re in Downtown Las Vegas. In addition to the fabulous entertainment and shopping destinations found here, downtown is also home to some of the best desserts in the city. These fabulous establishments are serving up crave-worthy treats sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Here are a few of our favorites.

ChillSpot by SasaSweets

When nothing but a frozen treat will do, head to Chillspot by SasaSweets. The ice cream served here is made right in front of you using liquid nitrogen for unparalleled freshness. For an indulgent experience, try a Belgian Chocolate or Madagascar Vanilla Sundae. Want something on the light side? The shop’s Sorbettos and Italian Ices are available in a variety of fruit flavors.

JinJu Chocolates

This Vegas chocolatier offers a decadent assortment of handmade treats ideal for taking back to your hotel to enjoy later or for giving as a gift. If you’re stopping in for a quick bite, try the AKOYA 4-piece bonbon collection. Or, indulge in the Fortunato No. 4 Chocolate Bar, crafted with 68 percent Grand Cru dark chocolate.

Cupkates by Kate

Although cupcakes are the main attraction at this Vegas bakery, Cupkates also offers delicious dipped apples and strawberries, cake pops, and cookies.
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Cupcake flavors change by the day, so if you’re craving a particular flavor, call ahead to see if it’s available. Popular cupcake varieties found here include PB & J, Snickerdoodle, and Lemoncello — just to name a few!

Luv-It Frozen Custard

For an authentic taste of Vegas, head to this quaint frozen custard shop that has been in business since 1973. In addition to creamy frozen custard served in cones and cups, this establishment offers a variety of creative sundaes. The Luv-It Special sports pecans and strawberries while the Banana Fudge Krumble features cookie crumbles, sliced banana, and hot fudge.

Dessert at the Plaza

Despite the presence of the fabulous dessert destinations mentioned above, you don’t even need to leave your downtown Las Vegas hotel to enjoy a sweet treat. For an authentic taste of down-home cooking, visit Hash House A Go Go at the Plaza. In addition to the breakfast and lunch fare, you’ll find Andy’s Famous Bread Pudding, topped with ice cream and served with a cup of coffee. At Oscar’s Steakhouse, be sure to try the authentic New York Cheesecake or the delectable crème brulee. No matter what kind of sweet treat you are looking for, you are sure to find it in Downtown Las Vegas.

Exploring Downtown Las Vegas’ Beer Garden

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Downtown Las Vegas is a hub of fun activities and a large variety of different cuisines sure to appeal to anyone. Although there are dining options including everything from a decadent steak dinner, to oversized favorites such as chicken and waffles, there is nothing quite like the Beer Garden at Plaza. This unique venue aims to recreate the traditional European beer gardens with its own unique twist. Those looking for a quick and delicious bite to eat and a frosty craft beer straight from the tap will love Beer Garden.

Food

 
 
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The food offerings at Beer Garden are German-inspired and are sure to please. The venue offers a variety of great snacks to pair will you beer including an extra giant size German pretzel that feeds 4 and crispy onion strings served with your choice of dipping sauce. The real draw here, however, are the signature wursts.
 

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These artfully crafted wursts include options such as The Westerner, with smoked polish sausage, roasted jalapenos, crispy fried onions and a chipotle aioli and The Golden Slipper, with andouille sausage, crispy bacon, and cream cheese topped with a fried egg. You also have the option to create your own wurst and even order a slice of specialty pizza from neighboring Pop Up Pizza. This is the perfect food to satisfy after a long day of exploring Downtown Las Vegas.  

Beer

There are few things that go together better than an ice cold draft beer and a wurst. Beer Garden takes things to a new level by offering over 20 different craft beers to pair with your food. No matter what flavor profile you are looking for, Beer Garden is sure to have it.

 

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There are so many options including from American and European pale lager, cider, fruit beer, IPA, Irish stout and Belgian golden. The selection is wider than you will find anywhere else downtown.  They even offer interesting suggestions on which beer will pair best with certain menu offerings.  

Atmosphere

 
 
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Aside from the great food and wide variety of craft beers on tap, Beer Garden also boasts a uniquely fun atmosphere. If you are in the mood for a quick bite, the spacious indoor bar area is the perfect space to indulge. For those who are in the mood to hang out while enjoying the delicious food and drink offerings, Beer Garden also features a fully equipped outdoor area.

 

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Modeled to feel like a home backyard, this outdoor area features picnic table seating, artificial grass and plants along with table games and live entertainment. This urban oasis overlooking Fremont Street stays true to the beer garden experience with downtown’s only living wall. The wall is a 400 square foot garden with more than 900 different plants growing on it.

 

This makes Beer Garden the ultimate pub experience in Downtown Las Vegas. Make sure to stop by and try one of their amazing wursts and a frosty beer!

If afterwards you’re ready for some rest, take advantage of our affordable hotel room rates at Plaza and stay in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas.

What to Expect When Dining at Oscar’s

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Oscar's Steakhouse Las Vegas

Source: Vegasmagazine.com

Come on In

It isn’t a trip to Vegas unless you’ve dined at Oscar’s. Flirt with all the showgirls you want, but you haven’t done Sin City without the signature steaks and cocktails that await you at the only dining establishment that’s earned the name of the Happiest Mayor on Earth. And while you’re here, you may even get to meet the legendary mob-boss-turned-mayor, Oscar Goodman himself. Located in the iconic glass dome of the the jewel of Downtown – the Plaza Hotel and Casino – it’s a true Vegas experience worthy of any appetite.

Take in the View  – Inside & Out

The all-glass dome of the Plaza used to be home of this Downtown classic’s pool. This was a scene where you wanted to be seen…and not much has changed to this day. From your table, you’ll be treated to views of the iconic Fremont Street Experience. Inside, enjoy the glitz and glam of old-school Vegas with mood lighting and classic jazz. While you’re here, take in some of Oscar’s rare photographs of vintage Vegas, along with memorabilia from Mr. Goodman’s 12-year tenure as mayor.

Did We Mention the Broads?

Can you beat beauty and brains? No way. The Broads of Oscar’s are beautiful dinner hostesses and companions who can regale you with tales of Vegas history, recommend must-do Vegas attractions (although you’d be experiencing one during your conversation), talk sports, debate politics – anything you want. They were inspired by Oscar Goodman’s “booze and broads” trial back when he was a mob attorney, and the Bacchanal Room at the old Caesars Palace where guests were invited to party with the Goddesses. Oscar’s Broads are there to enliven your experience…after all, nothing complements a great dinner like sparkling conversation with a beautiful companion. As the man himself says, “I’d take one Betty over 100 showgirls any day.”

Eat and Drink Like You Own This Town

Oscars Steakhouse Steak The crowning jewel of Oscar’s is the amazingly varied food menu and classic drink offerings. As a fine dining steakhouse, Oscar’s offers a variety of perfectly aged cuts which are then seared over a 600 degree grill to ensure they are flavorful, juicy and tender. Adding to the unmistakably Las Vegas glam feel, Oscar’s offers jumbo shrimp, crab legs and lobster tail to complement any of the already delicious entrees. All of the side dishes at Oscar’s are made from scratch with only the highest quality ingredients. Featuring staples such as smashed potatoes and steamed asparagus to less-expected offerings such as roasted corn brulee and onion strings, you are sure to find something you love. With a full bar, you can opt for a classic cocktail or one of the many signature and hand-crafted Las Vegas inspired drinks at the restaurant. Don’t forget to try Mr. Goodman’s signature Bombay Sapphire martini while you’re here. Oscar would insist on it.

So When Are You Coming?

Hopefully your appetite is whetted for the quintessential Vegas dining experience, courtesy of beloved Mayor and famed mob attorney Oscar Goodman. Just remember, if you haven’t been here, you haven’t really been to Vegas. Cheers!

Food Diary: Eating Our Way Through the Day

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Plaza breakfast 7:00 a.m. The alarm clock went off and there was no hitting snooze. We had a lot to get to at the Plaza Hotel in Las Vegas, but before we could do anything, whether work or play, we needed to eat a solid breakfast. The best way to start the day is with breakfast at Hash House A Go Go. One of our favorite dishes there is the classic Boston Hash – crispy potatoes, mixed onions and fresh tomatoes crowned with blue crab cake drizzled with horseradish cream and served with eggs and fresh fruit. After a breakfast of that magnitude we were almost ready to begin the day. We just needed to stop by Cafelatte for a Lavazza coffee first. 12:32 p.m. Before we knew it, it was already time for lunch. We were still a little full from breakfast and were busy making the most of the day so we opted for something quick and easy at Pop Up Pizza. We indulged in a slice of cheese, but also had a salad. Mom always said eat your veggies! 5:00 p.m. Five o’clock rolled around. It was a busy and productive day, but now it was time to relax and enjoy the evening. It was a beautiful fall day in Vegas. Today’s sky was a mix of pink, orange and red as the sun set. We headed to the Bier Garten for a craft beer and to enjoy the sights and sounds of Downtown Las Vegas from the outdoor area. In addition to our beers, we ordered a giant pretzel and wurst to share as a snack before dinner. Bier Garten food and drinks 6:52 p.m. We had a reservation at Oscar’s for 7 p.m. so we headed upstairs to the restaurant. The decor of Oscar’s is glamorous. It incorporates memorabilia from Oscar Goodman’s 12-year tenure as mayor as well as classic photographs of Las Vegas from over the years. It makes you feel like a star. We started with some calamari and chose the pork chop for the entrée. The calamari was nice and crispy on the outside and the pork chop had been perfectly seared. Not a bad way to wrap up another fun day at the Plaza. Oscar's calamari Oscar's pork chop

How to Make the Perfect Mint Julep

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The Mint Julep has been the official drink for the Kentucky Derby for nearly a century. How did this drink consisting of mint, sugar, and bourbon achieve such fame?

History of the Julep

“Julep” comes from the Persian for “rose water”. It describes a sweet drink used to mask the taste of medicine. Truth be told, mint juleps were the original energizing morning drink! Horse trainers who woke up early would prepare the drink to help face the day. Eventually, the julep started showing up at horse races. In 1938, Churchill Downs started charging twenty-five cents once they noticed the mint julep glasses disappearing. Those cups are the leading Kentucky Derby collectible. It is tradition for the Kentucky Governor to use the mint julep sterling silver glass to toast the winning Derby owner. KentuckyDerby.com explains that during the Kentucky Derby, 120,000 mint juleps are served over the two-day period. That’s eighty tons of shaved ice and 2,200 pounds of fresh mint! Since 2006, one has the option of purchasing a custom-made mint julep served in a gold-plated cup with a silver straw for $1,000! Proceeds from this extra-premium drink go to care for retired race horses.

Mint Julep Recipe

Oscar's Mint Julep Here at Oscar’s you can find a similar, more moderately priced, premium drink. If you are watching The Derby at the Plaza Hotel and Casino, come into Oscar’s Steakhouse for a perfectly muddled mint julep using Woodford Reserve, the official bourbon of The Kentucky Derby! We also enjoy the mint julep mixed with Blanton’s Bourbon because of the festive bottle pictured below. Or make your own with the following recipe:
  • 10 Mint Leaves
  • ¼ oz Simple Syrup
  • Crushed Ice
  • 2 oz Woodford Reserve or Blanton’s Bourbon
  • ¼ oz Soda Water
  • 1 Lime Wedge
Muddle mint leaves with simple syrup. Pour over crushed ice. Add bourbon. Add sprits of soda water. Mix well. Garnish with mint leaf and lime wedge. Cheers! Blantons

Plaza Las Vegas Bartender Keith Wins Competition

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Congratulations to Oscar’s Beef Booze and Broads’ bartender Keith Baker for winning the Mob Museum’s first annual “Boss of the Bars” contest! This event, hosted by and at the Mob Museum, located in downtown Las Vegas and is just steps away from Fremont Street Las Vegas. The “Boss of the Bars” contest marks the date that Prohibition was repealed in the United States.
keithKeith is originally from Memphis, Tennessee and has been bartending since he was 21 years old. Keith says he has entered several contests online but has never actually won a contest before winning the “Boss of the Bars” contest. Keith’s winning drink is called the “21st Hour”. The clever name served two purposes. First, cocktail parties on December 5th celebrating the end of prohibition, traditionally had hostesses who planned to be “kickin’ it” (really busy) at 9pm (the 21st hour), the second reason is, the Mob Museum was hosting a cocktail party at 9pm on December 5th, when the contest was set to start, so he figured it paid great homage to the occasion. Keith was kind enough to share the winning recipe with us!
photo

The recipe is:

  • 1 oz. Bathtub Gin made with Tito’s Vodka
  • 1.5 oz. Yellow Chartreuse
  • .5 oz. Artisanal Sweet Vermouth
  • .25 Horsford’s Acid Phosphate
  • 1 dash Handcrafted Bitters Solution
  • 1 stick of cinnamon
Combine all ingredients in a mixing vessel and stir 20-30 times with no ice. Pour over crushed ice in an old fashioned glass. The cinnamon stick will be your garnish.
For the “Boss of the Bars” contest Keith went all out. He actually made his own vermouth and bitters from scratch. He used a “bathtub” gin he made himself with Tito’s Vodka infusing it with juniper, other spices and aromatics. Back in the days of prohibition Keith says he would have used grain alcohol, moonshine, juniper extract or other cheap ingredients and diluted them with water. That process was of course illegal back in the day and, in Nevada, it still is.Keith used Horsford’s Acid Phosphate as well in his cocktail. It is a re-creation by the Extinct Chemical Company of a real product that was in heavy use at the end of the 1800’s all the way up until the 1950’s when the soda fountain died out and drinking sodas on the go became the norm. Back then you would belly up to the counter and ask for a Cherry Phosphate; sweetened cherry syrup, acid phosphate, and soda water or similar beverage or, of course, a Coke. This ingredient would have been very familiar to bartenders of the time and easy to get without suspicion. Come in to Oscar’s Beef, Booze and Broad’s, the best steakhouse downtown Las Vegas and order yourself the 21st Hour from award winning “Boss of the Bar” Bartender Keith Baker!

Oscar’s Signature Cocktails

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Tasting a bit of Vegas has never been so thrilling

Many of our locals and tourists alike find the history and legacy of Vegas thrilling and part of the charm of Sin City.  For those who may not be as familiar with the namesake of this iconic steakhouse in Downtown Las Vegas at the Plaza Hotel & Casino, let us indulge you. Oscar Goodman served as the “Happiest Mayor in the Universe” for Las Vegas from 1999 to 2011.  However it’s his former career that has audiences captivated.  In his career as a defense attorney, he represented defendants accused of being some of the leading organized crime figures in Vegas.  To get in touch with that side of Goodman just watch the 1995 movie Casino which portrayed a couple of his former clients and in which he has a cameo appearance. Fast forward to present day and Goodman is now the namesake behind the Oscar’s Beef-Booze-Broads steakhouse.  Be sure to checkout the photo montage of his careers as you saunter into the lounge and restaurant.  Now sit back and enjoy the libations and just imagine what it must have been like and order like he would.

Cocktails at Oscar's Steakhouse

What Oscar Drinks

5 ounces Bombay Sapphire gin (& then more Bombay Sapphire gin) Ice A slice of jalapeno Big, strong and the perfect drink…at least according to Oscar.  (If you have an opportunity see Oscar out and about this is what you will likely find in his hand!)

Goodmans Legacy

4 ounces sparkling wine 1 ounces St. Germain liquor ½ ounces Vodka This drink is tart, fizzy and just a little on the dry side. Perfect for toasting Oscar’s “forty years and still going strong”!

Downtown Smash

2 oz. vodka 1/2 oz. lime juice fresh 1/2 oz. simple syrup Muddled (fresh) strawberries & blackberries   The result is a sweetness with a refreshing citric zing. This drink truly makes you feel like it is “a long time coming and now a huge success”. Come on in for “Happiest Hour” from 4-6 pm Monday thru Friday in Oscar’s Lounge for half priced drinks and select appetizers.   At the bar or over dinner in the iconic glass dome, the bartenders will mix up one of these iconic spirits or your own favorite.   When you’re looking for a true Vegas experience, Oscar’s has both the goods and the history!