Top 3 Restaurants for Modern/wagyu-forward steakhouses in Las Vegas
After extensive tastings and evaluations, Bavette's Steakhouse & Bar claims the top spot with its exceptional wagyu program and modern ambiance, followed by Carversteak's innovative preparations and Delmonico Steakhouse's classic-meets-contemporary approach to premium beef.
Our Methodology
Our rankings are based on anonymous visits by a panel of three expert reviewers who evaluated each establishment using a weighted scoring system. We conducted multiple visits during peak and off-peak hours, testing signature wagyu offerings, side dishes, cocktails, and service performance. Each restaurant was scored across four primary criteria: Quality (30%), Value (25%), Service (25%), and Experience (20%). Final scores represent the average of all evaluations.
Bavette's Steakhouse & Bar
Park MGM, 3770 S Las Vegas Blvd âą $$$
Bavette's combines Chicago steakhouse heritage with modern wagyu expertise, creating an unmatched sensory experience where every elementâfrom the butter-soft beef to the crafted cocktailsâdemonstrates meticulous attention to detail.
Key Highlights
Detailed Review
The Gold Standard in Modern Steakhouse Excellence
Bavette's dominates our rankings through its flawless execution of both traditional and innovative steakhouse elements. Their wagyu program is particularly exceptional, featuring multiple A5 Japanese prefectures alongside American wagyu crosses. The 16-ounce Miyazaki ribeye (market price, typically $225-275) arrives perfectly seared with a crust that crackles under the knife, revealing marbling so extensive it resembles snow falling through the meat. What sets Bavette's apart is their 45-day dry-aging process that adds profound umami depth without compromising the wagyu's inherent butteriness.
The modern elements shine through in unexpected places: wagyu fat-infused old fashioneds, miso-glazed asparagus, and a bone marrow appetizer served with delicate brioche toast points. Service strikes the perfect balance between knowledgeable and unpretentiousâservers can eloquently explain the differences between Kagoshima and Olive wagyu while making you feel like a regular. The dimly lit, jazz-filled dining room with its plush leather banquettes and intimate lighting creates an atmosphere that feels both timeless and contemporary.
Must-order: Miyazaki ribeye, bone marrow appetizer, wagyu fat old fashioned
Best for: Special occasions, business dinners, wagyu connoisseurs
Reservations: Essential - book 3-4 weeks in advance for prime times
Carversteak
Resorts World Las Vegas, 3000 S Las Vegas Blvd âą $$
Carversteak earns its position through innovative wagyu presentations and a distinctly contemporary approach that respects Japanese traditions while embracing modern culinary techniques.
Key Highlights
Detailed Review
Innovation Meets Tradition
Carversteak distinguishes itself with a thoroughly modern approach to the steakhouse experience. Their wagyu program features an impressive variety of A5 offerings presented as tasting flightsâan innovative concept that allows diners to compare prefectures side-by-side. The 3-ounce Hokkaido, Miyazaki, and Kobe flight ($195) provides an educational journey through Japan's premier wagyu regions, each accompanied by appropriate salts and sauces that enhance rather than mask the beef's characteristics.
The restaurant's contemporary designâfeaturing an open exhibition kitchen, sleek minimalist decor, and dramatic lightingâcreates a vibrant atmosphere that appeals to younger steak enthusiasts. Where Carversteak particularly excels is in its beverage program, offering curated sake pairings specifically designed to complement wagyu's rich fat content. Service is knowledgeable though occasionally less polished than our top pick during peak hours. Their modern interpretations extend to sides like truffle-laced pomme purĂ©e and shishito peppers with yuzu kosho, though traditionalists might find some preparations overly fussy.
Must-order: Wagyu tasting flight, dry-aged ribeye, truffle mashed potatoes
Best for: Modern dining experiences, wagyu education, younger crowds
Reservations: Recommended - book 2-3 weeks in advance
Delmonico Steakhouse
The Venetian, 3355 S Las Vegas Blvd âą $$$$
Delmonico delivers a refined interpretation of the modern steakhouse, blending Emeril Lagasse's Creole heritage with impeccable wagyu offerings in an elegant, clubby atmosphere that appeals to traditionalists and modernists alike.
Key Highlights
Detailed Review
Classic Foundation with Modern Flourishes
Delmonico Steakhouse represents the evolution of the traditional American steakhouse into the modern era. While maintaining the dark wood, white tablecloth aesthetic that steak purists adore, their wagyu program demonstrates contemporary sophistication. The 14-ounce Australian wagyu strip ($125) features excellent marbling and is prepared with Emeril's signature blend of Creole spices that enhance rather than overwhelm the beef's natural richness. Their dry-aging program, while more conservative than our top two picks, produces remarkably flavorful meat with perfect texture.
Where Delmonico shines is in its integration of global influencesâthe Japanese wagyu tartare with quail egg and the miso-marinated Chilean sea bass showcase their modern approach beyond red meat. Service is impeccably professional though occasionally more formal than contemporary diners might prefer. The wine program remains one of Vegas' most comprehensive, with sommeliers who expertly pair bold reds with rich wagyu. While slightly less innovative in presentation than our top two picks, Delmonico executes classic techniques with precision that reminds us why traditional methods remain relevant.
Must-order: Australian wagyu strip, wagyu beef carpaccio, bananas foster dessert
Best for: Traditional steakhouse lovers seeking modern elements, wine enthusiasts
Reservations: Recommended - book 1-2 weeks in advance
Las Vegas has evolved into a global epicenter for modern steakhouse experiences, particularly for wagyu enthusiasts. The city's top establishments have moved beyond traditional steakhouse conventions, embracing contemporary techniques, global influences, and sophisticated ambiance while maintaining reverence for exceptional beef. What defines a 'modern/wagyu-forward' steakhouse goes beyond simply offering Japanese beefâit involves innovative dry-aging programs, creative presentations, chef-driven side dishes, and atmospheres that balance sophistication with approachability. These establishments represent the pinnacle of Las Vegas' culinary evolution, where centuries-old butchering traditions meet 21st-century culinary innovation.