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Las Vegas’s entertainment scene is constantly evolving. It offers diverse options, from high-end magic shows and concerts to acrobatics and comedy clubs. Still, live music remains the prevailing foundation of the Vegas entertainment spectrum. With that foundation in mind, we’ve listed some popular restaurants with live music.
The Las Vegas Live Music Scene
Sure, most people think of The Strip, but Vegas is a large city with plenty to offer across the valley. Venture Downtown and onto Fremont Street for a more local and low-key feel.
You don’t have to dig deep to find top-rated music venues or house shows for a more raw and intimate experience.
Top Live Music Restaurants in Las Vegas
Perhaps an overlooked attribute of Vegas’s attractions is their range of restaurants featuring regular musical guests. Restaurants that offer live music elevate the customer experience, surrounding them with a fun and memorable atmosphere that makes them want to stay a while and come back for more after they’ve left.
In Las Vegas, several restaurants host musicians from the local scene and international influences, all helping foster an environment that’s more than a place to eat.
The Bootlegger Italian Bistro
Location: 7700 Las Vegas Blvd South – about ten minutes south of Mandalay Bay
For a classy joint that plays even classier music, boasting nightly entertainment from pianists, blues artists, and even classic rock, the Bootlegger Italian Bistro not only provides guests with a warm Italian welcome but is rooted in family history, connecting back to Canadian bootleggers in the early 20th century.
The bistro’s prices are reasonable, with appetizers ranging from $10 – $30 and steak entrees under $50.
There are also the Italian dishes: Spinach Fettuccine Primavera, Seafood Fra Diavolo, a specialty house lasagna, and much more.
Regular musical artists include Sante Fe and the Fat City Horns, Doug Taylor, Rita Lim & David Siegel, and Singer & Sachs.
Toca Madera
Location: 3720 Las Vegas Blvd South – inside the Crystals shopping mall
If you’re looking for a spectacle with regular live music and a decorated menu of award-winning food, look no further than Toca Madera.
A typical day at Toca Madera includes live music, and once night falls, the playlist transitions into House and Dance music. As far as food goes, this Mexican restaurant offers a wide range of organic, sustainable foods for all diets.
Starters include culinary staples like crispy calamari, truffle quesadilla, and tostaditas. You can also get traditional main dishes like Chicken Al Pastor, NY Strip steak, prawns, and seared salmon.
On any given Tuesday at Toca Madera, you can experience an all-day celebration featuring exciting musicians, DJs, and even fire dancers.
Le Thai (Downtown)
Location: 523 Fremont St., Downtown, Las Vegas
For restaurantgoers looking for a hopping spot and a delicious meal paired with DJ beats, we’d be remiss if we didn’t drop a Fremont restaurant on this list. Le Thai in Downtown Vegas is a “Buzzy Thai spot offering noodles & curries with an outdoor patio that hosts DJ performances.”
The menu at Le Thai is also quite reasonable, with appetizers and salads under $20 and delicious fried entrees as well as famous curries you won’t be able to turn down.
Vic’s
Location: 335 Promenaded Pl., Downtown, Las Vegas
Sprawling across an 8,500-square-foot venue, Vic’s is both a restaurant and jazz club that even includes a sports lounge. The restaurant is proud to feature award-winning jazz artists, both local and international.
Vic’s is another American and Italian-style staple, focusing on fresh ingredients and new flavors. Their menu covers a variety of eclectic and traditional tastes, including freshly prepared pasta made in-house. The bar and gaming area is open 24/7.
PREMIER TIP: If you plan to eat at Vic’s before a show at The Smith Center, make a reservation far in advance.
House of Blues Restaurant & Bar
Location: 3950 Las Vegas Blvd South – located inside Mandalay Bay
If you love blues and great food, don’t miss out on this classic franchise located on the Vegas Strip. The House of Blues is a massive blues-themed venue with a southern-inspired full menu and a variety of wine, beer, and specialty cocktails.
Coming performances at the House of Blues Las Vegas include Sean Paul in late May and Silversun Pickups in June.
Check out the House of Blues’s Gospel Brunch performances every Sunday for some good old-fashioned soul music to raise your spirits.
Ole Red Las Vegas
Location: 3627 Las Vegas Blvd South – in front of The Horseshoe
This brand-new (like, opened in April) restaurant and venue claims to be more than just a restaurant and venue. Inspired by Blake Shelton, the country music-themed business aims to provide guests with a “concert experience from their barstool.” In addition to renowned artists (sometimes including Blake himself), they offer regular performances from hot and rising talent in the genre.
The menu at Ole Red is packed with American apps and meals, including fried chicken wings, the Oklahoma Onion Burger, plenty of bar-b-que selections, and St. Louis ribs.
Planning Your Live Music Dining Experience
As with any Las Vegas adventure, you’ll want to plan ahead. There is no shortage of entertainment around here, so making even a simple itinerary will help you have a safe and structured time.
Premier Tips for Finding Live Music in Vegas
- Consider the vibe you’re looking for–upscale jazz lounges, casual bars with a band, or energetic dance clubs.
- Check venue websites and calendars for upcoming shows.
- Look for listings in local publications or online event guides.
- Explore specific neighborhoods online, ones known for their live music scene, like Fremont Street.
- Don’t forget about parking! If you and your group are heading into the city in your own vehicles, make sure you find lots and ramps ahead of time.
