Celebrity-Owned Restaurants in Las Vegas: The Top 10

Many people may still think of Las Vegas as the King of Cheap Buffets serving ghastly selections, the "all you can eat" variety for $3.99 that is at every corner on The Strip. The last thing you would expect from Vegas is having top notch restaurants owned by celebrities. Granted, the buffets do exist in Las Vegas, however, what is becoming more and more commonplace are the celebrity-owned restaurants.

Food in Vegas has almost become synonymous with, dare I say, gambling. Almost overnight there has been an explosion of new restaurants that are owned by film celebrities. Now the new celebrities in town are the so-called "Celebrity Chef". With so many of these kinds of restaurants let's break it down as to what are the Top 10 Celebrity-Owned Restaurants in Las Vegas? This is for those who want to check them out the next time they are out in Vegas or staying there presently.

10.) Robert De Niro - AGO: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Renowned for its Tuscan-style Italian fare it's run by Chef-restaurateur Agostino Sciandri, along with his business partner, the famous film actor, Robert DeNiro. When the original restaurant in LA celebrated its tenth anniversary that is when they decided to open one in Las Vegas. You can sample one of a kind cocktails, experience intimate dining in their special "cava" rooms that resembles an underground wine cave. The menu features seafood soup, Mediterranean sea bass, and the most delectable desserts on the strip.

9.) Todd English - Olives: Bellagio Hotel

This is the hotel with the magnificent dancing fountains in front that is choreographed to lights and music. It is also the site to this renowned celebrity chef, Todd English. He is one of the most decorated and respected chefs in the world. The cuisine is that of rustic Mediterranean. You'll find his restaurants all over the U.S. and the world.

8.) Mario Batali - Carnevino Italian Steakhouse: The Palazzo Hotel

Here is an interesting concept, an Italian Steakhouse. Normally when you think of steak houses the state of Texas comes to mind, not Italy. Their menu includes a special brand of organic super prime beef. You'll also savor this extraordinary celebrity chef, Mario Batali, who is one of the featured chefs on Food Network's "Iron Chef America", his delicious handmade pasta, classic antipasti, and side dishes. Dine amongst the backdrop of the royal villa at the Palazzo.

7.) Tom Colicchio - Craftsteak: MGM Grand Hotel

This noted chef is one of the judges of the popular reality TV show "Top Chef". He is a James Beard award-winning chef who serves only the finest ingredients available from small family farms. You must try their signature dishes featuring the Lobster Bisque, Braised Short Ribs, and Grilled Kobe Skirt Steak. There is also an extensive wine list.

6.) Joel Robuchon - Joel Robuchon: MGM Grand Hotel

A legendary French Chef known also as the Chef of the Century has come out of retirement to open his first French restaurant in the U.S. His food caters to a very sophisticated palate that is of the traditional French cuisine. Since there is limited seating in this restaurant reservations are strongly recommended.

5.) Bobby Flay - Mesa Grill: Caesars Palace

A popular chef on the Food Network Channel showcased in a number of their television cooking programs it only makes sense to have Mexican cuisine in a city located in the West. Come try out their Mango + Spice Crusted Tuna Steak or what about the Blue Corn Crusted Alaskan Halibut + Salsa Cruda for dinner.

4.) Nobu Matsuhisa - NOBU: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

At last, a Japanese restaurant serving contemporary and authentic Japanese cuisine from a breakthrough Japanese chef. Their sushi is certainly fresh. Entrees include Lobster Cerviche and Three-day Marinated Cod. The interior features bamboo pillars, a black river rock wall, and wooden birch trees.

3.) Alain Ducasse - Mix: The Hotel, Mandalay Bay

Dine in the "mix"ture of French and American cuisine by this world class French chef. The restaurant is atop the 43^rd floor. While you are dining you will have the best view of the famous Las Vegas Strip.

2.) Emeril Lagasse - Emeril's: MGM Grand Hotel

Everyone knows this super celebrity chef from his famous catch phrase "Bam" to his TV shows, and cookbooks. The restaurant features modern Creole/Cajun cooking in a funky New Orleans-style café. You've got to try their New Orleans BBQ Shrimp. Once you do you can't resist saying "bam" like the master chef himself.

1.) Wolfgang Puck - Spago: Caesars Palace

This is The King of Celebrity Chefs for All Time. His restaurant in LA was the hotbed for Oscar after-parties for decades when the ceremonies were over with. Spago is his signature restaurant he has brought to Las Vegas. You'll be sure to find a celebrity clientele and fine food when you go there to dine. Some of the unique entrees are the Pan Seared Breast of Duck, Kurobuta Pork Wienerschnitzel, and Indian Spice Rack of Lamb. It's located at the Forum Shops.

There are your Top 10 Celebrity-Owned Restaurants in Las Vegas primarily owned by these outstanding celebrity chefs, who deserve this recognition for providing Las Vegas with the best cuisine the world has to offer. No more of those hideous buffets.