Las Vegas Restaurants Fit for Your Graduation Celebration

Class seniors of all ages are gearing up to accept their diplomas and toss their caps. The sweet scent of freedom is on the air, and the prospect of spending this summer either furiously job-hunting or doing as little as humanly possible is becoming more of a reality with each passing day. Whether you’re putting your high school years behind you or finally cashing in on all those sleepless nights spent working toward your degree, now is the time to celebrate your great accomplishment. Organized by cuisine type, we’ve put together a sampling of Las Vegas restaurants that stand out in our eyes as those worthy of hosting your special occasion. And since all of these restaurants can accommodate a range of party sizes, your group (big or small) will be taken care of. 

French: 

As the newest incarnation of the most awarded restaurant in Las Vegas, Andre’s at the Monte Carlo prides itself on serving truly exceptional French cuisine in a setting that is equally accommodating and elegant. In addition to the main, well tailored dining room, guests can savor a variety of small plates and sample a glass from the restaurant’s 12,000-bottle cellar at the bar or mingle in the lounge that boasts a fireplace as well as a selection of top-shelf cognacs and cigars.

The MGM Grand hosts Joel Robuchon, the multi-award-winning and highly acclaimed namesake restaurant by the master chef. An opulent a la carte menu is offered alongside multiple prix fixe and tasting menus, catering to the specific appetites and needs of each party. The Joel Robuchon dining experience is made complete with their complimentary one-way limo service that can be arranged upon availability with your dining reservation.

Steak: 

Visit the Palms Casino’s N9NE Steakhouse for a contemporary take on classic steakhouse cuisine. The restaurant’s sleek design is punctuated by elements like the massive Champagne and Caviar Bar, which itself can comfortably hold a large party and changes constantly with the shifting color scheme of the room’s lighting. With a large array of fresh seafood dishes and prime aged steaks, N9NE is a choice surf-n-turf destination.

Celebrity Chef Tom Colicchio’s Craftsteak has made a name for itself with a menu that highlights seasonal, locally sources ingredients and top-quality steaks and seafood.  This MGM Grand eatery serves up a number of raw shellfish specialties beside such carnivorous indulgences as Wagyu beef, dry-aged steaks, and Maine lobster all in a setting that is both welcoming and refined.

Italian: 

Ago presents diners with a taste of Italy via the Hard Rock Hotel. The restaurant is divided into distinct sections suited to accommodate both the full-dinner reveler and cocktail-nursing mingler alike. The suave lounge and bar area is the place to linger over any of Ago’s signature cocktails and small plate treats, while the polished dining room provides a welcoming atmosphere for Ago’s extensive Tuscan-inspired menu.

In The Palms Fantasy Tower, Nove Italiano brings classic dining to the 21st century by using iconic Italian imagery and ingredients in unexpected and appetizing ways. Leopard-print-upholstered chairs, oversized framed mirrors, and swanky light installations are bold and beautiful design touches that complement Nove’s decidedly contemporary Italian cuisine menu. Guests appreciate the rich freshness of Nove’s Seafood Crudo offerings that are reminiscent of sushi (served with virgin olive oil, sea salt, and lemon), in addition to their fulfilling pasta and entrée dishes.

Mexican: 

Dos Caminos redefines modern Mexican Cuisine by showcasing quality ingredients, bold flavors, and tried-and-true techniques at the Palazzo Hotel. The large open dining room may say Las Vegas, but the Dos Caminos menus scream South-of-the-Border. This oasis for fine Mexican fare offers brunch, lunch, dinner, late-night dining, and a nightly happy hour to fit your fancy… But no matter what time of day you visit, we suggest you mosey on up to their made-to-order guacamole—it has quite the reputation.

Diego conjures images of Mexico in its design and cuisine to transport diners directly from The MGM Grand to a landscape of great food and casual satisfaction. Using a palette of pink and peach adobe tones to balance the restaurant’s modern lines and chic accent pieces, Diego is both approachable and intriguing. The same can be said for the menu as well—traditional zesty ceviches, inviting tacos, and signature favorites pair naturally with Diego’s vast selection of tequilas for a complete Mexican dining experience.

American: 

For a taste of progressive American cuisine, visit Chef Charlie Palmer’s Aureole at the Mandalay Bay Resort. This monument of a restaurant has garnered itself a Michelin Star (among other awards) for presenting food full of flavor and vision. Seasonal ingredients dictate the ever-changing menu, which is coupled by a wine list that refuses to quit. The restaurant’s four-story wine tower holds over 10,000 bottles and must be scaled by the famous “wine angels.” It doesn’t get much more Vegas than this!

For a slightly more subtle and familiar experience spend an evening at the Nobhill Tavern, in the MGM Grand. Michael Mina brings out the best in classic tavern cooking, serving up a menu of both popular favorites and more artful offerings. From the Cheeseburger Sliders to the Maine Lobster Pot Pie, Nobhill Tavern promises a meal that satisfies the appetite and taste buds. Casual and social dining comes natural to guests here.

Japanese: 

Savor an invigorating dose of Latin flair with your meal at SUSHISAMBA, in the Palazzo. East meets West in the most delectable fashion here, where bold South American flavors are combined with traditional Asian dishes. In a dining space designed to mimic the fluid vibrancy of Brazilian dance, diners enjoy sushi, ceviche, noodles, and grilled meats that reflect a culinary and cultural exchange of tasty ideas.

Sushi Roku offers guests traditional Japanese fare in a super chic and modern space. Stylish accent pieces like bamboo lanterns and rich wood fixtures instill a touch of classic charm to the otherwise contemporary and sophisticated room, as the menu emphasizes the authentic flavors of time-honored Japanese specialties. A broad sushi selection is joined by an equally impressive sake list, and a full menu of hot appetizers, entrees, and house specialties making for many fabulous meal options.