The Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas has always offered a come-as-you-are vibe and a rebellious attitude, which translates into automatic fun. The same can be said for Culinary Dropout, the Hard Rock’s energetic gastropub. It started as the perfect place to sip and snack before catching a concert at the Joint, but Dropout has become a destination unto itself.
The main reason is the menu. The casual atmosphere, well-crafted cocktails and solid list of brews go a long way, but the food variety is pitch-perfect. Start with mini platters of prosciutto di San Daniele, bresaola and truffled crescenza cheese, or stick to deliciously twisted bar-food faves like pickled sweet peppers, cheddar pork cracklings, pork belly nachos or soft pretzels with provolone fondue. Keep it simple and satisfying with a havarti-bacon-barbecue burger, or dig deeper with a Korean-style ribeye cap steak or pan-seared rainbow trout. Or indulge with comfort-food favorites like fried chicken drizzled with honey or beer-battered fish and chips.
From smoked salmon to chicken wings, Culinary Dropout is as refined or as relaxed as you want it to be—no fuss, just flavor. Culinary Dropout at Hard Rock Hotel, 702-522-8100; Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Friday 11 a.m.-midnight, Saturday 10 a.m.-midnight, Sunday 10 a.m.-11 p.m.