2 Best Restaurants in West Side, Las Vegas

Fans of Thai food flock here for spot-on exceptional chow with few surprises—just expertly prepared curries, tom yum soups, fish cakes, and pad Thais. In particular, the shrimp "ginger ginger ginger" (or you can choose it with meat or tofu) has drawn raves; yes, it really is that gingery. Archi's was one of the first Thai restaurants in Las Vegas and still holds a reputation among locals as one of the best. Reasonably priced three-course lunch specials are served from 11 am to 3 pm weekdays. This original location has held its own for more than 20 years, but there are two other branches, in the Southwest part of town (6345 S. Rainbow Blvd., Summerlin and 9350 W. Sahara Ave.), and a fast-casual spot (9310 S. Eastern Ave., Henderson).

This restaurant's founder started out as the sommelier at Lotus of Siam, so it makes sense that the wine racks behind the register and the multi-page wine list set this restaurant apart from some of its noisy neighbors, along with a romantic, jazz-music vibe (after sunset, the view of the rear of the neighboring Macy's home store fades away). The menu is smaller and more creative than the standard Thai eatery as well, with crisp-fried meats—Panang Crispy Duck, Pla Crispy Beef—as the focus of several dishes. There's another location in Henderson (2645 St. Rose Pkwy., Suite 150).