The 38 Best Restaurants in Las Vegas | Eater Vegas

"The entryway to Casa Playa is transportative. Amber-colored marigolds frame the entryway, an effect that is at once soothing, exciting, and inviting as a backdrop for selfies. The restaurant beyond carries the visual theme — marigolds suspended from the ceiling, melding with the soft glow of paper lamps and cool tans of the furnishings to lend the entire space a warm and beachy feel. It all sets the stage for dishes from chef Sarah Thompson, a finalist for this year’s James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest. Dining with a group of at least three or four people means ordering roasted carnitas for the table. The platter arrives with handmade tortillas, poised for topping with roasted meat and flavorful crispy skin, smoked agave syrup, chipotle slaw, chile toreado, and charred cucumber salsa. Octopus is deftly grilled on a hot metal plate, seared until tender with just the right amount of char, and plated with sweet and earthy Coloradito mole,and pickled escabeche potatoes. —Janna Karel, editor, Eater Southern California/Southwest Best for: Big groups who want to try a little of everything" - Matthew Kang