Oscar Goodman, our former mayor, has opened a restaurant in the dome at the Plaza Hotel. Located on Main Street, facing the Fremont Street Experience, this venue offers both a nostalgic view of the old Las Vegas, and the new downtown with its zip lines, laser shows, free bands, and excitement. They are open from 5 pm to 10 pm (half an hour later on Friday and Saturday), with live entertainment in the lounge on weekends between 7 pm and 11 pm. Reservations are not required, but if you want a fabulous table or banquette facing Fremont it is recommended!

Also called Oscar’s Beef, Booze, and Broads, this venue offers that and more. The appetizers are delicious and reasonably priced. The menu offers chicken, salmon, crab, shrimp, and pork as well as beef. Although only three steaks are offered in print, many more are available upon request. All the steaks are perfectly aged and grilled at 600 degrees for that perfect flavor!

Crab legs are literally the best deal in the house (the chicken is more expensive), and no beverage prices are listed on the menu at all. But the food is very good. You must try one of Oscar Goodman’s famous martinis in the spacious and attractive bar area while you are there. When you’re there, say hello to Bartender Keith who won the inaugural Boss of the Bars title. Be sure and ask for his winning drink: The 21st Hour.

Recently, Oscar and the restaurant were featured in an episode of Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown on CNN. Mr. Goodman frequents the restaurant to mix with guests, tout the martinis, and sign a few of his books (“Being Oscar: From Mob Lawyer to Mayor of Las Vegas”). He’s also featured in a Plaza Hotel Speaker Series where you can enjoy dinner and listen to His Honor talk about some of his favorite, controversial subjects like prostitution in Las Vegas. The wall of photos from Goodman’s 12-year tenure as Mayor of Sin City is worth the visit alone. And while you’re there, enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail served by none other than Bartender Keith who won the inaugural Boss of the Bars title, a Downtown cocktail competition. Be sure and ask for his winning drink: The 21st Hour.

What is most precious about this venue is the glamorous “good old days” ambiance, with its glass, brass, and crystal; spacious banquettes, impressively displayed wine collection, and …ta-da! The Broads! These attractive girls double as hostesses and dinner companions to any diners who have questions or simply want to chat. They wander from one table to another, offering the history of the downtown area, and are amazingly knowledgeable about wine, sports, and the politics of our fair city. Feel free to ask them about things to do and see; they truly are helpful.

Don’t be shy about asking prices. This is definitely a $$$$ dining experience, but careful ordering can give you an outstanding meal at moderate prices. You cannot ask for better service, a more delightful ambiance or more breathtaking décor. If you miss the Las Vegas of yesteryear, with its mob affiliations and colorful history, you are going to love an evening at Oscar’s. Enjoy!

Inside The Plaza Hotel & Casino
1 S. Main St
Las Vegas, NV
702-386-7227

Oscar’s Steakhouse