At Best Friend, Roy Choi’s whimsical concept within Park MGM, the fun starts at the bodega-inspired entrance, then continues into the dining room, with funky fusion eats made famous on the celebrated chef’s food truck, Kogi. In a section cheekily titled "LA Sh*t" on the menu, short-rib tacos are pepped up with salsa roja and tangy shreds of chile-soy slaw; A-Frame OG Ribs, named for his A-Frame restaurant, are glazed with a sticky hoisin-chile sauce and stopped with scallions. Groups should dive into the pots, like a funky-sweet tamarind black cod stew with glass noodles and ginger.

Seafood and sushi shine at Shark, Bobby Flay’s latest concept within The Palms. The menu draws from ocean-inspired culinary regions around the world, including Japan, the Mediterranean, Mexico and South America. Hand and cut rolls and traditional pieces of sushi are expertly produced by Chef Kiyo Asano, formerly a major player at Nobu, while the rest of the menu boasts a festive Latin flair. Yellowtail ceviche, balanced with spicy chile de arbol and chunks of sweet charred pineapple, is presented in a hearty helping of its own juices meant to be slurped and savored.

Eat with your eyes here —plating is taken to the next level at the upscale Bazaar Meat by chef and humanitarian José Andrés at the SLS Hotel. The cotton candy foie gras —presented on sticks like the childhood treat — makes a whimsical starter, as are the velvety béchamel- and jamon-filled croquets which are tucked into a glass sneaker. Steaks are exceptional, as is the suckling pig, which is served whole.

Nestled in a corner of Rampart Commons near Summerlin, buzzy Honey Salt specializes in farm-to-table food in an attractive, down-home setting. Start with the sticky, savory monkey bread — warm and fluffy with parmesan and olive oil. The sea scallops, lightly caramelized, are flavored with vanilla and a pungent truffle sauce.