Chef Natalie’s time in Vegas began 22 years ago, when she came to start her recovery journey. Her culinary career began with a gig at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant at Paris Las Vegas that lasted 7 years. Now, she is the proud owner of EAT Downtown, where her dishes are the culmination of all her experiences and everything she loves. Her philosophy when it comes to her restaurant, can be summed as such; good food, people and conversation.
Over the years, Vegas has cultivated a culinary landscape as diverse as it is delicious. Next time you’re in town, check out these restaurants that not only serve up diverse inspired dishes but also share rich stories, much like Natalie’s journey.
Gritz Cafe
Located in the Historic Westide Neighborhood, Gritz Cafe is a beloved gem of the Las Vegas community. Opening its doors in 2008, the café has been serving Southern cuisine with a unique twist that has left customers coming back for more. This restaurant was the brainchild of Trina Jiles, who not only excelled as a restaurateur, but also made history as the first black female firefighter in Clark County. The café quickly became a neighborhood gathering place, warmly welcoming hundreds of locals and becoming a sought-after destination for travelers passing by. With tantalizing dishes that perfectly encapsulate the essence of the South, Gritz Café offers an unmatched culinary experience. Beyond its delicious food and southern hospitality, Gritz Café stands out for its efforts to elevate the image of "Soul Food" restaurants. It has successfully introduced a Southern familiarity to its dining guests, offering them a taste of soulful comfort food that is both gratifying and heartwarming.
Letty's de Leticia Cocina
Located in the Arts District, Letty’s de Leticia’s Cocina offers traditional, authentic, and fresh Mexican food. With deep-rooted familial ties to Vegas dating all the way back to 1964, each dish at Chef Letty’s eatery is as fresh as if it was prepared in Chef Letty’s kitchen. Every ingredient is thoughtfully garden-picked, and both guacamole and salsa are crafted fresh to order.
Esther's Kitchen
To round out our culinary highlights, here’s Esther’s Kitchen. This Italian bistro is named after head chef James’ Great-aunt Esther who gave inspirational advice and cared deeply for her community. Chef James continues to embody that care, with ingredients that come directly from farmers markets. Plus, the pastas and housemade sourdough breads are handmade in a climate-controlled room, ensuring a delicious and quality experience for every bite.
Stay tuned for more people and stories as fabulous as the city itself!