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Best Restaurants in Reno

Best Restaurants in Reno

Reno Southwest, USA Travel Guide

Culinary Overview

Cultural and Historical Context

Historically, Reno's dining reflected its casino town identity: expansive buffets, steak and prime rib dinners, and quick, affordable eats for gamblers. A significant Basque heritage in the region has left its mark, contributing to an unique culinary niche.

More recently, influences from California cuisine, as well as the city's growing Asian and Mexican communities, have broadened the culinary landscape. This diversification means you find everything from traditional American comfort food to authentic international dishes.

Meal Times and Structures

  • Breakfast: Typically from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Many diners and cafes have breakfast all day.
  • Lunch: Generally from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM.
  • Dinner: Most restaurants begin service around 5:00 PM and continue until 9:00 PM. Casino restaurants often have later hours, some 24/7.
  • Dining Etiquette: Standard American dining etiquette. Tipping (15-20%) is customary. Casual dress is accepted; 'smart casual' for upscale spots. Reservations for fine dining.

Ingredients and Flavors

Local Produce

Nevada's high desert climate supports ranching, making beef prominent. Local produce from nearby agricultural valleys, like Fallon, appears seasonally.

Diverse Flavors

Flavors incorporate American classics, but also Asian spices, Mexican chili, and European techniques, reflecting the diverse population.

Regional Variations

Downtown/Casino Corridor: Classic casino steakhouses, buffets, independent Riverwalk eateries. MidTown District: Independent, chef-driven restaurants, unique cafes. South Reno: Mainly chain restaurants.

Traditional Beverages

  • Picon Punch: A unique Basque cocktail with Amer Picon, grenadine, soda water, and a brandy float. Has a distinctive bitter-sweet flavor. Find it at Basque restaurants like Louis' Basque Corner.
  • Craft Beer: Reno has a thriving craft beer scene with numerous local breweries. Many have tasting rooms to sample various styles.
  • Local Wines: Nevada's growing wine industry has local vineyards, though less prominent than beer. Some restaurants feature local wines.
  • Coffee Culture: A growing number of independent coffee shops have specialty coffee drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

Signature Dishes

Prime Rib/Steak

A casino classic, often slow-roasted and served with traditional sides.

Find this at nearly every casino's steakhouse (e.g., Atlantis Steakhouse, Roxy at Eldorado, Bimini Steakhouse at Peppermill).

Buffet Dining

The extensive casino buffets (e.g., Toucan Charlie's Buffet at Atlantis, Grand Sierra Resort Buffet) have a wide variety of cuisines at a fixed price.

They make for sampling many different foods.

Basque Cuisine

Influenced by the region's Basque heritage. Dishes like 'lamb stew' and 'solomo' (marinated pork loin) are found at Louis' Basque Corner (301 E. 4th St), a long-standing institution.

Experience unique regional flavors.

Other Culinary Highlights

  • Street Food Specialties: Food trucks are gaining popularity and appear at local events, farmer's markets, or designated food truck parks. Check local event listings.
  • Iconic Snacks and Desserts: Many casinos have extensive bakeries with large pastries, cakes, and desserts. For a classic American treat, local diners often serve milkshakes and pies.
  • Seasonal Foods: During events like Hot August Nights, classic car-themed diner food, burgers, and milkshakes are prevalent. Agricultural fairs highlight local produce. Farmer's markets offer seasonal fruits and vegetables.
  • Craft Beer Scene: Taste local brews at numerous breweries across Reno. Many offer unique, seasonal drafts and a relaxed atmosphere.

Dining Options Overview

Fine Dining Options

Atlantis Steakhouse, Bimini Steakhouse (Peppermill), Roxy (Eldorado) for upscale steak and seafood.

Mid-Range & Budget

Beaujolais Bistro (French), Wild River Grille (American, Riverwalk), MidTown Eats (American comfort food). Casino food courts offer quick, affordable meals.

Dining Options & Considerations

Mid-Range Restaurants

Numerous options provide quality food in a comfortable setting:

  • Beaujolais Bistro (125 W. 1st St): A French bistro on the Riverwalk, offering classic French dishes.
  • Wild River Grille (17 S. Virginia St): Serves American cuisine with river views.
  • MidTown Eats (1670 S. Virginia St): American comfort food with a modern twist.

Markets and Food Halls

Reno Public Market (299 E. Plumb Ln): A modern food hall with diverse vendors, shops, and entertainment. Great Basin Community Food Co-op (240 Court St): A local cooperative with organic groceries. Farmer's Markets: Seasonal markets offer fresh, local produce.

  • Diverse vendors.
  • Local produce and crafts.
  • Good for exploring local flavors.

International Cuisine

Reno's diverse population means a good selection of international food: Mexican, Asian (Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese), and Italian.

  • Authentic taquerias.
  • Wide range of Asian dishes.
  • Classic Italian flavors.

Special Dietary Considerations

Vegetarian and Vegan

These options are increasingly common, specifically in MidTown and newer establishments. Many restaurants will accommodate requests. Casino buffets offer extensive salad bars and vegetable options.

Communicate needs clearly.

Halal and Kosher

Specific Halal or Kosher restaurants are limited. Some larger grocery stores carry certified products. Check with restaurants in advance for strict requirements.

Plan ahead for specific needs.

Dietary Resources & Experiences

Gluten-Free

Many restaurants offer gluten-free menus or mark allergens. Communicate needs clearly to your server.

Food Tours

Reno Food Tours has guided walking tours focused on local culinary spots in downtown and MidTown.

Cooking Classes

Some local culinary schools or specialty food stores have occasional classes. This makes for learning about specific cuisines.

Farm Visits

Lattin Farms (Fallon) has seasonal farm tours. Local breweries offer tours and tastings.

Culinary Experiences & Festivals

Food Festivals

  • Reno River Festival (June): Celebrates whitewater sports on the Truckee River, with live music, food vendors, and competitions.
  • Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off (Sparks, Labor Day Weekend): A large outdoor BBQ competition drawing national contenders and significant crowds.
  • Street Vibrations Spring Rally/Fall Rally (Various locations): Motorcycle rallies that feature numerous food vendors.
  • Downtown Reno Wine Walk (Monthly, along the Riverwalk): A self-guided tasting event where participants sample wines at various local businesses.

Unique Dining Concepts

Themed Casino Restaurants

Many casinos have unique themed restaurants beyond just steakhouses, from Italian villages to Polynesian settings, for an immersive dining experience.

An engaging experience.

Basque Restaurants

An unique historical culinary niche in Reno, with hearty, communal meals.

A taste of local heritage.

Local Flavors & Resources

Local Producer Highlights
Lattin Farms (Fallon): Seasonal farm tours.
Revision Brewing Co.: Local craft beer.
Local Trout: Fresh from nearby waters.
Regional Ranches: Source for quality beef.
Seasonal Fruits: From local orchards.
Artisan Cheeses: Small-batch producers.
App Resources

Use apps like Yelp or HappyCow to find restaurants with specific dietary preferences. Review menus online in advance to plan your choices.

  • Yelp for filters.
  • HappyCow for vegan options.
  • Online menus for planning.
Local Event Listings

Check VisitRenoTahoe.com or local news sites for current food festivals, food truck gatherings, and other culinary events.

Stay updated on local happenings.

General Dining Advice

Tipping
  • 15-20% is standard for good service.
  • Cash or Card: Both are fine for tipping.
Dress Code
  • Most places are casual, but upscale venues might suggest smart casual attire.
  • Comfortable attire generally fits most dining spots.

Culinary Experiences

Workshops and Classes

Art Classes

The Nevada Museum of Art and various local art studios often have workshops in painting, pottery, or other mediums.

Check schedules | Public classes
Craft Workshops

Local craft stores or community centers may have classes in various crafts.

Hands-on experience
Cooking Classes

Some local culinary schools or specialty food stores may have occasional classes, allowing you to learn about specific cuisines or techniques.

Culinary skills

Farm Visits and Food Producers

  • Lattin Farms (Fallon): About an hour east of Reno, this farm has seasonal farm tours, a corn maze, and a pumpkin patch. It gives a glimpse into local agriculture.
  • Local Breweries & Distilleries: Numerous craft breweries in Reno (e.g., Revision Brewing Co., IMBĪB Custom Brews) offer tours and tastings.
  • Wineries: Explore a few local wineries for wine tasting experiences in the region.
  • Orchards: Seasonal fruit picking is available at some local orchards.

Community-Based Tourism Initiatives

Support Local Businesses

While formal programs are limited, supporting local businesses in the MidTown District is a way to engage with the local culture and economy.

Discover unique shops.

Attend Community Events

Attending community events and markets is another way to engage with local culture and independent shops.

Experience local traditions.

Cultural Performances

Native American Powwows

Periodically held by local tribes (e.g., Washoe, Paiute, Shoshone). Check specific tribal websites or cultural centers for schedules.

Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts

Hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts, symphony performances by the Reno Phil, and local theater productions.

Local Music Venues

Many bars and small venues in downtown and MidTown feature local bands and musicians, showing Reno's contemporary music scene.

Traveler Tips

Always verify hours and availability before visiting, as these change, especially for smaller establishments or seasonal markets.

  • Check restaurant websites or social media for current information.
  • For food tours, book in advance to secure your spot.
  • Explore MidTown for unique, independent dining experiences.
  • Casino buffets are a good option for variety and value.
  • Do not forget to try the local craft beer scene.