The "Secret" Foodie Guide to LV Chinatown (Spring Mountain Rd)

Las Vegas Chinatown spans several miles of Spring Mountain Road.

If you’re visiting Las Vegas and only eating on the Strip, you’re doing it wrong. Just a five-minute Uber ride west of the bright lights lies Spring Mountain Road, home to a massive, sprawling Chinatown that locals treat as their personal culinary playground.

Forget the overpriced "fusion" concepts in the casinos. We’re talking about hand-pulled noodles, charcoal-grilled skewers, and soup dumplings that will change your life... all at prices that won't blow your gambling budget. Here is your insider guide to the best authentic, affordable bites in Chinatown Vegas.

🍜 The Heavy Hitters: Must-Try Classics

These are the spots that put Spring Mountain on the map. They aren't exactly "secrets" to locals, but for a visitor, they are pure gold.

Shanghai Taste and Xiao Long Bao: Both famous for their soup dumplings. The broth inside is liquid gold... just remember to nibble the side and let the steam out before you dive in! At Shanghai Taste, you can watch the chefs pleat the dough through a window.

Raku: This is a legendary Japanese izakaya (Japanese pub). It’s small, intimate, and focuses on charcoal-grilled skewers. The Agedashi Tofu and Kobe Beef Tendon are essentials.

Insider Tip: It’s hard to get a prime-time reservation, but they are open late. Go for a "second dinner" after 10:00 PM.

Chengdu Taste: If you love heat, this is your Mecca. Specializing in Szechuan cuisine, their Toothpick Lamb and Boiled Fish in Green Pepper Sauce feature that signature "numbing" spice that makes your mouth tingle in the best way possible.

Shabuya (AYCE Japanese Hot Pot): If you come hungry, this is the undisputed king of value in Chinatown. It’s an All-You-Can-Eat Japanese hot pot experience where the quality of the thinly sliced meats (especially the Wagyu options) rivals high-end steakhouses. You pick your broth, DIY your dipping sauces at the massive condiment bar, and order unlimited rounds of prime cuts. In addition, Shabuya features a "buffet" of unlimited seafood, noodles and vegetables to cook in your pot, alongside the meat.

💎 Hidden Gems & Budget Wins

Looking for the spots where the prices are low but the authenticity is through the roof? Head here:

Cô Anh Sandwich & Noodle Kitchen: A tiny, family-run Vietnamese spot tucked away in a corner. Their Banh Mi is arguably the best in the city... crispy baguette, fresh herbs, and pate that tastes homemade.

Noodlehead: Tucked into a modest strip mall, this spot is a favorite for local chefs. The noodles are chewy and the broths are deeply savory. It’s the perfect "I just want a giant bowl of comfort" destination.

Asian BBQ & Noodle: Warning: This place is Cash Only. It’s a "no-frills" Cantonese BBQ joint where you’ll see ducks hanging in the window. Order the three-meat combo (Roasted Duck, Char Siu, and Crispy Pork Belly) over rice for a massive meal under $20.

🍹 Beyond the Food: The Vibes

Chinatown isn't just about the food; it’s about the "secret" nightlife that keeps the locals away from the Strip's tourist traps.

The Golden Tiki: Located in the same plaza as many of these restaurants, it’s one of the best tiki bars in the country. Look for the "shrunken heads" of famous Vegas celebrities behind the bar.

Mas Por Favor: Hidden behind a "secret" door in a taco shop, this moody speakeasy serves incredible tequila and mezcal cocktails with a gritty, cool aesthetic.

💡 Pro Tips for Your Visit

Parking is a Puzzle: The plazas on Spring Mountain (especially Shanghai Plaza) have notoriously tight parking. If you’re driving, be patient, or better yet, take a rideshare so you can enjoy some sake.

The "Late Night" Rule: Chinatown stays alive much later than the rest of the city. Many spots are open until 2:00 or 3:00 AM, making it the ultimate destination for post-clubbing fuel.

Explore the Grocery Stores: Stop by 168 Market or 99 Ranch Market. You can find incredible snacks, rare fruits, and even high-quality ready-to-eat sushi and dim sum for a fraction of restaurant prices.

See more about restaurants in Las Vegas on LAS Discounts, here.