Nora's Italian Cuisine

Nora's Italian Cuisine has been around, in various forms, since 1992, and boasts multiple generations of fans – from top Instagrammers like Jennifer Gay (@VegasStarfish), to Las Vegas Advisor publisher Anthony Curtis. It currently resides in a stand-alone, two-story location west of the Strip on Flamingo, with plenty of space for large parties and easy parking. (The upstairs lounge and patio are great for private events.)

Portions are large. The conversation is loud. And there's a certain locals-focused energy that can't be faked. The menu is deep on choices, focusing on traditional favorites like chicken parmesan, grilled branzino served whole and probably more veal dishes than any Italian restaurant in Vegas. Most of the meats have a smoky aroma, thanks to a Josper oven and grill. Pastas are made by hand. And the pizzas do brisk takeaway business. Some recipes have a Sicilian influence, while the wine selection is heavy on strong, robust reds designed to match the heartiness of the food. Finish off a meal with the house-made limoncello.

FUN FACT: Gino and Nora Mauro opened the original restaurant in a tiny strip mall just down Flamingo, near Jones. It's now home to Monzu, a more contemporary Italian concept by their son Giovanni.