The Beast by Todd English

“The food at The Beast is so much better than it has to be, given its captive audience of people so blown away by the sights and sounds of Area 15 that they would probably eat just about anything and leave with good memories,” notes longtime Las Vegas food writer Al Mancini. “That’s particularly true of the barbecue -- which is among the best in town.”

Celebrity chef Todd English has created what he refers to as a “food hall in the belly of a dragon,” and packed it with funky décor and trippy presentations that live up to that description. But the true “beasts” here are the massive menu and the central open cooking area, which is really six separate kitchens in one. Whatever you’re hungry for, they probably have it: wings, dogs, tacos, burgers and pizzas are all prepared with top-of-the-line ingredients and a fine-dining attention to details.

As Mancini notes, however, barbecue is the standout there, thanks to English’s team of two world-class pit masters who draw on a variety of styles from across the USA. For something truly unique (and plant-based), check out the smoked carrots arranged to resemble a rack of ribs.