Restaurant early closings

Question

We stayed at the Westgate a year ago and was shocked that most restaurants closed before 10pm. This was during the Rodeo Finals. I was told that many LV restaurants close early due to staff shortages. Is this a current problem? My other question concerns prices. Are the off strip restaurants much cheaper? Thanks in advance.

Answer

It's true that many Las Vegas restaurants, particularly those on the Strip, have been affected by staffing shortages over the past couple of years. This has caused some establishments to adjust their hours and close earlier than in previous years. Although the situation has improved slightly, it’s still a challenge for some restaurants to maintain late-night hours, especially during non-peak seasons. However, many of the popular spots on the Strip, especially those in larger resorts or tourist-heavy areas, still offer late-night dining options, so it’s always a good idea to check ahead.

Regarding prices, yes, off-strip restaurants tend to be more affordable than their Strip counterparts. While you’ll still find high-end dining options off the Strip, the average price for a meal at an off-strip restaurant can be significantly lower than at Strip restaurants, especially when you factor in things like drinks and tips. Here are a few tips for more affordable dining outside the tourist-heavy areas:

Local Favorites – Try dining at local spots like Lotus of Siam or Ellis Island. These restaurants are known for their great food and more reasonable prices, compared to the upscale spots on the Strip.
Casual Dining – You’ll also find casual, family-friendly dining options off the Strip that provide good value, such as In-N-Out Burger and Shake Shack, along with a variety of neighborhood diners.
Happy Hours – Many off-strip restaurants offer more affordable prices during happy hour. Look for deals at places like The Peppermill, where you can enjoy large portions for a fraction of the price you’d pay at Strip restaurants.

To sum it up, while early restaurant closures are still a reality in some places due to staffing issues, there are plenty of dining options available for late-night cravings. If you're looking to save on food, you’ll definitely find better prices off the Strip, especially in local and casual spots. Enjoy your trip and happy dining!