2 Best Restaurants in Center Strip, Las Vegas

Drop by this bustling branch of the famed South Miami Beach restaurant for, at the very least, a pile of fresh stone crabs and a beer. But Joe's is worth a try whether for a full meal or a snack to remember. (And the stone crabs are available here year-round, unlike at the flagship location.) There are gluten-free/vegetarian, kids' and carryout menus as well. Carnivores won't go hungry here, considering the leviathan bone-in rib eye or double-cut Colorado lamb chops, and there's a bar-food selection of burgers and sandwiches. For dessert, save room for Key lime pie or banana-cream pie with Foster sauce.

This offshoot of the Chicago original—from celebrity couple Giuliana and Bill Rancic and Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises siblings R. J., Jerrod, and Molly Melman—has a modern-Italian mission, which is reflected in its sleek, sophisticated decor. The Vegas-classic starters of steak tartare and beef carpaccio are joined by the more creative Maine lobster caprese and bluefin tuna crudo. The expected pastas are joined by one with spicy king crab, and a selection of steaks and chops, seafood, and Italian classics round out the menu. There's a three-course lunch prix fixe menu on weekdays and kids' and gluten-free menus. Happy hour from 3 to 6 pm weekdays offers discounted cocktails, wines, and small bites.