Downtown Las Vegas has so much to offer whether it’s shopping, sightseeing at one of the few outdoor pedestrian malls like Container Park and Fremont Street or finding a delicious place to eat.
Looking to travel to Las Vegas but don’t want to spend all your time at the Strip? Downtown is the place for you. After you’ve booked your room at Oasis hotel at Gold Spike, book some fun activities in the area that are a short walk away, like a food tour.
Food tours are a great option for trying a myriad of dishes that capture the local flavor or delicacies of an area. Great for locals and tourists alike, food tours usually include a food docent who will take you to several restaurants where you’ll try a specialty dish. The docent may also give you interesting and historical facts about the culture of the area, its roots and the way the food industry has changed over time in the area.
I grabbed a few friends and tried the Nosh food tour, which highlights the flourishing downtown restaurant scene. We tried four different eateries, each one unique and delicious. Tasting plates are small, but trust me, after your sixth or seventh mini entree, you’ll be wishing you’d worn your elastic pants. The Nosh food tour promises that you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for Vegas cuisine and culture, and you’ll have some cool stories to share with your friends about the history of downtown.
First stop: Vegenation.
Relatively new to downtown, the vegan restaurant has a friendly atmosphere with vines and hanging plants draped all over. The restaurant serves sustainable, green food that’s 100% plant based. The dishes feature locally grown food and when available, their own home grown herbs. Don’t be wary of the lack of meat and cheese here, they more than make up for it with incredibly fresh flavors and seasonings.
We tried all three of their pizzas, the Mushroom Madness, Ciao Margarita, and Picante Pineapple (pineapple, jalapeno, and tofu sausage pieces). Each had a fresh and crisp crust, with possibly the best tomato sauce ever. Their non-dairy cheese made a delightfully creamy texture in every bite. The Pineapple Picante was our favorite, but the Margarita pizza made tomatoes taste like they were in season even when they weren’t.
Second Round: Cheffini’s Hot Dogs
Located in Downtown Container Park, Cheffini’s offers gourmet-like hot dogs with not-so-average toppings. We tried their signature dog: onions, tomatoes, ketchup, mayo, mustard, cheese, pineapple sauce, and crushed potato chips. Loaded, but delicious. The beef dog was top notch. We’ll be visiting again soon to try all their different dogs (even the vegan ones)!
Third Stop: The Perch
Located on the second floor of the Container Park, The Perch features brunch, salads, entrees, burgers, and a tasty selection of beers and signature drinks. We tried the truly phenomenal monkey bread from their brunch menu, and an asian-inspired chicken and veggie lettuce wrap. The atmosphere is clean and bright with a beautiful bar or tables for larger parties. Outdoor seating is also available to give you prime people watching views of the entire Container Park. Another place we’ll definitely be going back to.
Fourth and Final Stop: JinJu Chocolates
Recently named Las Vegas’s best candy shop of 2015, the shop was founded by Jin Caldwell, Master Chocolatier, and award-winning Pastry Chef. Her small retail shop is within the Container Park, but her clients include almost all the major casinos on the Strip. Her salted caramel bon bons are a revelation, and we bought four of her candy bars to enjoy at home.
With Nosh, you can expect over six plus tastings, bites and sips with a professional foodie tour guide. You’ll discover a different side of the city, hear fascinating stories about the history of Las Vegas, and receive exclusive coupons so that you can explore downtown yourself after you’ve digested and are ready for more! The tour lasts about two and a half hours, and you’ll be walking half a mile throughout to different restaurants, so wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
No matter your occasion for visiting Las Vegas, downtown is the up and coming area for entertainment, art, and great food. Don’t miss your chance to book a room at the Oasis at Gold Spike for the holidays, as they’re going fast! Our boutique hotel features 44 unique and different “crash pads” with great prices and amenities. Book your room now, and then get ready to Nosh your way through downtown.