A Vegas Icon That Delivers! Oscar’s Steakhouse at the Plaza Hotel

A Historic Setting in the Heart of Downtown

Oscar’s Steakhouse is more than just a restaurant—it's a tribute to the rich history of Las Vegas. Located inside the iconic glass dome of the Plaza Hotel, Oscar’s offers stunning views of Fremont Street while immersing guests in a setting that reflects the city’s golden era. The Plaza has been a downtown staple since 1971, standing on the former Union Pacific Railroad Station site. Over the years, the hotel has served as a backdrop for numerous films, including Casino, The Stand, and Back to the Future Part II, solidifying its place in pop culture history.

When you step into Oscar’s, you’re dining where Vegas history was made, surrounded by a décor that nods to the city’s past while offering a refined and welcoming atmosphere.

Oscar’s Steakhouse at Plaza Las Vegas. One of the best in Vegas offering a unique view and history of Las Vegas.

Oscar Goodman: The Mob Lawyer Turned Mayor

Oscar’s namesake, Oscar Goodman, is a legendary figure in Las Vegas. Before serving as the city’s mayor from 1999 to 2011, he was a high-profile defense attorney known for representing some of the most notorious figures in organized crime. His connections to the Mob made him both a controversial and beloved character, and he later embraced this reputation as he transitioned into politics.

As mayor, Goodman played a key role in revitalizing downtown Las Vegas, including the Fremont Street Experience and the development of the arts district. His love for fine dining, cocktails, and old-school Vegas charm is evident in every detail of Oscar’s Steakhouse, from the Mob-inspired memorabilia to the cocktail menu featuring drinks like Hizzoner—a gin-forward drink named after the former mayor himself.

The restaurant is filled with Oscar’s collection of memorabilia and art. It’s safe to say that the Vegas we know and love was born from some of what you feel, see, and taste while at Oscar’s.

Ambiance: The Perfect Blend of Old-School Vegas and Modern Luxury

Dining at Oscar’s is an experience that transports you back to the Rat Pack era while offering modern elegance. The restaurant’s signature glass dome provides an unbeatable view of downtown Las Vegas, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere. Plush leather booths, vintage chandeliers, and a classic steakhouse aesthetic make it feel both upscale and inviting. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a night out, Oscar’s ambiance is second to none in downtown Vegas. It’s iconic without being pretentious. Las Vegas today is filled with amazing fine dining and restaurants in between, but many lack the charm, history, and service that Oscar’s Steakhouse has.

Service: A Five-Star Experience

One of the highlights of dining at Oscar’s is the service. The staff is professional, knowledgeable, and attentive without being intrusive. From the moment you’re seated to the final bite of dessert, you’re treated like a VIP. The team knows the menu inside and out, offering great recommendations on steak pairings, wine selections, and signature cocktails. It's clear that Oscar’s takes pride in creating an unforgettable dining experience, and the service truly stands out as industry-leading. There was a time when Las Vegas hospitality reigned supreme, and casinos did everything they could to keep you happy, fed, and playing in the casino. Nowadays, getting a comp is so hard, and every meal feels like you must take out a small loan to cover it. Not to mention, service is no longer the focus in many Las Vegas eateries, but rather aesthetic, istagramable moments and 65-dollar cocktails. The service at Oscar’s is a taste of old Vegas, where your satisfaction was paramount, and the experience of going out was special. We’re not saying you can’t find good service in Las Vegas, but attentive and almost familial service is rare. Feeling like you are a local, not a visitor, is rare in Las Vegas. We felt at home and like we belonged.

The Food: Is a Good Value

Now, let’s talk about the food. Oscar’s delivers high-quality steaks, seafood, and classic steakhouse sides, making it a strong contender in the Las Vegas dining scene. The menu features impressive options like the 24oz Bone-In Ribeye, Kansas City Strip, and Japanese A5 Wagyu for a premium steak experience. Seafood lovers will appreciate dishes like the Seared Day Boat Scallops with truffle risotto or the Branzino with caviar beurre blanc.

Many YouTube influencers will tell you it’s the best steakhouse in Las Vegas. It is certainly well above average, and everything we ordered was fresh, cooked perfectly, and tasted great. Despite this, we can’t say Oscar’s is the best steakhouse in Vegas, but it is certainly better than many high-profile steakhouses on the Strip from big-name celebrity chefs. We won’t name any (cough Cut by Wolfgang Puck, cough). The value you get for the high-quality ingredients and portionsin a resort town like Las Vegas makes it a top contender and one we would confidently recommend to anyone looking for a great dinner in Vegas,, especially a steak.

The appetizers shine as well—standouts include Johnny Quinn’s Crab Cake with citrus remoulade and the Short Rib Ravioli with bordelaise sauce. The sides, such as Chag’s Creamed Spinach and Mac & Cheese (with the option to add lobster), round out the meal with rich, comforting flavors.

While the food is undoubtedly delicious, it falls short of the elite steakhouses on the Strip, like Golden Steer or Delmonico. However, what Oscar’s offers that those heavy hitters don’t is exceptional value. Given the rising prices of high-end dining in Las Vegas, Oscar’s provides a more accessible option while still delivering a high-quality steakhouse experience. You won’t find a lot of dry or wet aging for days or weeks on end at Oscar’s, and maybe that is genuinely not necessary because every bite was great without having to take out a small loan. All that aging must be why those steakhouses are so expensive!

Final Thoughts: Why Oscar’s is Worth a Visit

Oscar’s Steakhouse is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a slice of vintage Vegas with a modern twist. The ambiance and service are industry-leading, creating a dining experience that feels both nostalgic and luxurious. While the food may not quite reach the level of Las Vegas’ top-tier steakhouses, it is still well above average and offers excellent value compared to its pricier competitors. We don’t use Value in a negative sense because when it comes to our hard-earned money and yours, we expect a great meal and to leave satisfied with our purchase. Oscar’s delivers this on every front. Though we can’t crown Oscar’s as the best in Vegas, we can honestly say that we would return for another meal and bring friends and family along.

Oscar's Steakhouse at the Plaza Hotel is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a classic Vegas steakhouse experience with outstanding service, stunning views, and a touch of Mob history. Check out our full review on our YouTube channel and subscribe to help us grow.