In the past decade, Las Vegas has evolved into one of the world's greatest food cities. It's a playground for vacationing foodies, and business travelers on expense accounts. It's reputation for cheap buffets and 99 cent shrimp cocktails, however, is gone forever.

 

But that doesn't mean you can't eat in Las Vegas on the cheap. Here are tips on how to save money on food while in Sin City.

 

FIRST PRO TIP:  SIGN UP FOR THIS FREE DINING HACK

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Get ready to experience the Strip like a true high roller, but with a secret weapon for saving big on dining! Forget flimsy coupons or awkward discount codes... we're about to introduce you to the inKind app, your new best friend for scoring an incredible 20% cash back at dozens of the hottest restaurants on the Las Vegas Strip. This isn't just a discount; it's a game-changer that will elevate your culinary adventures without emptying your wallet. And it's free!

 

In a nutshell, inKind allows you to purchase "house credit" for participating restaurants, and for every dollar you spend on that credit, you get 20% back to use on your next purchase. Think of it like a bonus gift card program that continually rewards you for dining out. And in Vegas, where every meal can be an experience, that 20% cash back adds up fast.

 

The Best Part? Sign Up (for free) Before You Even Arrive!

 

Don't wait until you're already in Vegas to discover this incredible deal. It's free to sign up! We highly recommend signing up for inKind before your trip using our exclusive referral link:

https://app.inkind.com/refer/MHB2MPO7   Pro Tip: With this link, you receive a $25 bonus for signing up!

 

By signing up in advance, you can browse the full list of participating restaurants, plan your dining itinerary, and even pre-load some credit, so you're ready to start saving from the moment you land.

 

NOTEWORTHY CHEAP EATS

The $1.99 Shrimp Cocktail
Las Vegas built a storied history with reports of 50 cent shrimp cocktails available on Fremont Street.  For years, they were served in a tulip sundae glass at the Golden Gate, located downtown. The casino claims it sold thousands per day, and more than 30 million total, which cost 50 cents until 1991 and 99 cents until 2008.  Today, a cheap shrimp cocktail is available at Fremont Casino, in Lanai Express, a quick service outlet.    In addition, you can find a $2 shrimp cocktail at Slots A Fun, located on the Strip next to Circus Circus.

 

$9.99 Steak at Ellis Island Casino 

If you're looking for a cheap steak in Las Vegas, this casino, located behind Horseshoe Casino, offers Player's Club members a 10 oz. Top Sirloin Steak served with three sides for 10 bucks. Check out their website for additional promotions, including the Free Famous Steak Special. 

• The $9.99 Special: To unlock the ultimate price, simply play at least $5 in any machine with your club card inserted, then download the required discount coupon from an Ellis Island kiosk.

• The "No-Play" Option: Even if you aren't hitting the slots, you can still snag a deal. Just by having a club card, you can download a kiosk coupon that brings the price down to $12.99 ($3 off the listed menu price).

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The $9.99 Burger & Fries at MGM Grand / Burger & Beer at Rio

Score a major win at TAP Sports Bar inside MGM Grand with one of the most competitive "Strip-side" deals available. Every Monday through Thursday from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, you can grab a classic Burger & Fries for just $9.99. It’s the perfect midday play for anyone looking to refuel in a high-energy environment surrounded by over 60 HD screens and authentic sports memorabilia. To round out the meal, you can add a draft beer for only $4.99, making this a full lunch or early dinner for under fifteen dollars.

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The Rio Hotel & Casino is currently offering a Rio Rewards Member Special that’s hard to beat. For just $9.99, members can grab a Double Smash Burger & Beer Combo at Attaboy Burger. This hearty deal features a classic double-patty smash burger paired with a refreshing brew, making it a perfect pit stop for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal.

 

The $2.49 Footlong at Casino Royale
Casino Royale, tucked between The Venetian and Harrah's, offers the $2.49 Nathan's footlong in its food court. They also offer $3 bottles of beer, to wash it down.  Steps away, a White Castle offers cheap sliders by the sack.

 

The $2 Downtown Hotdog Special

The Downtown Grand, located at the corner of Ogden Ave and 3rd Street, features a casino cart serving $2 Nathan's Famous hotdogs and $2 PBRs.  You can't go wrong for a quick bite.

 

Graveyard Steak & Eggs at South Point
At this Off-Strip casino, the graveyard specials are served from midnight until 6am. This includes the popular $5.45 steak and eggs, with a 7 oz. New York Strip, two eggs, hashbrowns, toast and jelly.  Other specials include a $3.45 two-egg breakfast, a $2.95 biscuits and gravy special, and, for good measure" an "Old Vegas" style Bay Shrimp Cocktail for $2.45.

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​$2 Cheap Eats at Slots of Fun

This little casino, tucked away next to Circus Circus, is bringing cheap eats back.  They feature $2 hotdogs, $2 shrimp cocktails and $2 popcorn.  You can wash it all down with a $2 Heineken.  Slots of Fun is also known for its collection of slot machines that still take physical coins.  You can hear the changing of jackpot quarters the minute you walk in!

 

Eat Free at Heart Attack Grill

The easiest free meal in Las Vegas comes with a caveat - you have to weigh over 350 pounds to receive your free burger.  This tacky Fremont Street restaurant, home of the trademarked Octuple Bypass Burger (with 8 patties!) is proud of its tagline "fighting anorexia since 2005."

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The $5.99 Cheeseburger and Fries
Craving a classic American meal without the Strip prices? You can grab a cheeseburger and fries for just $5.99 all day long at various Station Casinos locations across the valley. To unlock this tasty deal, all you need to do is show your Boarding Pass players card at any of the following participating restaurants:

• Brass Fork: Available at Palace Station, Sunset Station, and Santa Fe Station.

• Lucky Penny: Available at Red Rock Resort and Green Valley Ranch.

• Game On: Available at Boulder Station.

Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a late-night bite, this is one of the most reliable and affordable "hidden gems" for locals and visitors alike.

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Half Price Steaks

Herbs & Rye (3713 W Sahara) and its sibling Cleaver (3900 Paradise Road) are both worth a trip off the Strip, featuring half-price steaks from 5-8pm Monday through Saturday (Herbs & Rye) and 5-midnight daily (Cleaver).  Where Herbs & Rye is a low-key, late-night cocktail bar slash hole-in-the-wall for industry workers, Cleaver is an ode to the hustle and bustle of a classic Las Vegas steakhouse, featuring an expanded, seasonal kitchen menu.  Reservations are recommended.

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Chinatown
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.  Score great deals here, dining at prices cheaper than on the Strip.  More details.

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Foodie Tours

Foodie tours in Las Vegas offer a unique opportunity to explore the city's vibrant dining landscape, sampling award-winning dishes and uncovering hidden gems you might otherwise miss. These expertly guided excursions provide not just delicious bites, but also fascinating insights into the chefs, restaurants, and history behind the food.  More details.

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LUNCH SPECIALS

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Dreaming of dining at the swankiest restaurants on the Las Vegas Strip but balking at the dinner prices? Don't forget lunch specials, your ultimate hack to experiencing Vegas's culinary elite without breaking the bank! Forget mediocre buffets or fast-casual chains. We're talking about Michelin-starred names, celebrity chefs, and legendary institutions – all offering surprisingly affordable lunch menus that are, frankly, one of the best-kept secrets in town.  Here are our top picks.

 

BUFFETS

 

For decades, the all-you-can-eat buffet was the ultimate symbol of Las Vegas value... a true city staple where a few dollars bought a feast. Times have changed, and while the classic "cheap" buffet has largely vanished, the concept hasn't disappeared; it has simply evolved.  Today, finding a buffet that balances quality with a fair price point requires a more strategic approach.

 

INSIDER TIP:  Strategic travelers are hitting the premium buffets (like the Wicked Spoon at Cosmopolitan) during the final 30 minutes of brunch. They pay the lower brunch price but stay as the menu transitions to the more expensive dinner spread.

 

For a complete breakdown of which spreads are worth your time and money, check out our comprehensive guide to Las Vegas buffets.

 

HAPPY HOURS

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BRERA osteria (The Venetian Resort)

A favorite Happy Hour spot is under the fake skies of BRERA, which features its Italian-inspired Aperitivo Hour daily from 3-5pm.  During this time, enjoy half price cocktails, beer and wine by the glass.  Also, the pizzas -- among the best in town -- are half price. As a bonus - the chef sends out free bites with every drink purchase.  Score!

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See our full list of Las Vegas Happy Hours here.

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NATIONAL CHAIN OFFERS AND OTHER EMAIL DEALS 
 

While planning for your vacation, be on the lookout for deals, especially from national chains.  Many have online email clubs that send out coupons. One tip -- if the club asks you to select a “favorite” location, we suggest using zip code 89109, to ensure you get coupons for Las Vegas locations. 

 

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co/Rainforest Cafe

There are plenty of Landry’s restaurants in Las Vegas, so it may be worth your while to purchase a membership in the Landry’s Select Club. Landry’s locations include Bubba Gump Shrimp Co and Rainforest Cafe. Also, Saltgrass Steak House and Chart House, both located downtown inside the Golden Nugget. (You can find a full list by using zip code 89109 on their website).

 

There is a fee of $25 to join.  With that,  you receive an immediate $25 credit on the membership card once you register online. After you spend $250 (earning 250 points) at Landry’s restaurants, you get a $25 credit on the card that you can use toward your next meal. You also get a $25 credit during your birthday month.

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Buca di Beppo

These restaurant offers Italian food served family-style in a fun, themed atmosphere.  There are several locations in Las Vegas, including Excalibur and Horseshoe.  Sign up for the Buca eClub to receive offers via email. Enter zip code 89109 and choose the correct location since the coupons usually are limited to a specific location.

 

Denny’s

There are several 24-hour Denny's locations throughout the tourist areas, which are reportedly some of the busiest and most profitable for the entire chain. Sign up for Denny’s Rewards to receive offers via email.  Locations include the South Strip (across from Park MGM), North Strip (near The Venetian), Downtown (on Fremont Street), and Off Strip (near Virgin Resort)

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Dunkin 

Join the DD Perks Program, to use at locations in Central Strip in the Flamingo and downtown on E Fremont Street.

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Earl of Sandwich

A fast casual concept from Planet Hollywood founder Robert Earl, this is one of our favorite subs. (We're partial to the "cannonball" meatball sub!) You will find a location in Fashion Show Mall (across from Wynn Resort) and inside Planet Hollywood Casino (of course!) There is also a location in the food court of Palms. To potentially save some additional cash, join the Earl of Sandwich e-Club on its website. You will get a welcome and birthday gift -- which is perfect if you are celebrating a "birthday" while in Las Vegas!

 

Hash House a Go Go

This restaurant chain offers "twisted farm food" in huge quantities. One recent tweet summed it up:  "I wish I could unhinge my jaw to make my mouth bigger."  Las Vegas locations include The LINQ (Center Strip) and The Plaza (downtown).  Join the Twisted Farm Club to receive a special offer, and, of course, a birthday treat. 

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Jamba Juice 

Join the Jamba Juice Rewards Program and get special offers, a free birthday smoothie and earn points with every purchase.  Locations in Fashion Show Mall (across from Wynn Resort), Miracle Mile Shops (inside Planet Hollywood Casino), in Hughes Center, and several airport locations in terminals A-B and D.

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Johnny Rockets

This 50s-themed outpost has locations in several Strip food courts, including Horseshoe, Flamingo, Venetian, Fashion Show Mall, MGM Grand, Excalibur, Luxor, Mandalay Bay, and Silverton. Join the Rocket E-Club and get a coupon for a free hamburger with the purchase of any entrée and drink. 

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Olive Garden

A neon-clad Olive Garden has opened near MGM Grand, in the Showcase Mall. Join the Olive Garden eClub to receive special promotions.  Bonus: you can join the waitlist online prior to your visit, saving time on busy days.

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Starbucks

There is seemingly a Starbucks location every 200 feet in Las Vegas.  Note that most locations are operated by the individual resort where it is located, which means they rarely allow use of coupons or Starbucks Rewards redemptions for free drinks.  However, nearly all locations provide points for purchases, which can be redeemed when you return home. If in doubt, just ask.

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MALL DINING PROGRAMS

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Fashion Show Mall

Fashion Show (located across from Wynn Resort) often features promotions for their impressive collection of restaurants. (One recent promotion included a $20 rebate with a $50 restaurant purchase).  Sign up to receive emails to get the latest news.

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Miracle Mile Shops

SIgn up to receive the latest offers from Miracle Mile Shops, located Center Strip inside the Planet Hollywood Casino.  Be sure to check out the mall's coupon page for some great savings.

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Forum Shops 

This expansive mall at Caesars Palace, operated by Simon, offers the Mall Insider program.  SIgn up to receive the latest promotions.  Be sure to choose Forum Shops as one of your favorite malls.

 

AARP DISCOUNTS

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You don't have to be retired to be a member of AARP.  You just have to join. Members save up to 10% - 15% anytime at popular chains by presenting a membership card, including Outback Steakhouse (with a location in Casino Royale), and Denny's (see above for Strip locations). 

 

Most Landry’s restaurants offer 10% off to AARP members. Landry’s locations in Las Vegas include Bubba Gump Shrimp Co and Rainforest Cafe. Also, Saltgrass Steak House and Chart House, both located downtown inside the Golden Nugget. 

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AAA DISCOUNTS

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Always ask for “show your card and save” discounts if you are a member of AAA (the American Automobile Association) or CAA (the Canadian Automobile Association). As we hear of specific restaurants offering this discount, we will list them here.  
 

GIFT CARD DEALS

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A fan of the site shared that Costco members should check out the selection of restaurant gift cards on sale at their local club.  Most of these cards reflect a discount of 20 percent.  For instance, a $100 Rainforest Cafe and Bubba Gump's gift card sells for $79.

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SPECIAL EVENTS

 

Las Vegas Restaurant Week is offered every June. During Restaurant Week (which lasts 10 days or more), many restaurants on the Strip and Downtown offer special fixed-price menus. Check out their website for the latest information, including dates and participating restaurants.