Journey into the heart of the Sierra Nevada’s and discover some of the best restaurants in Reno Nevada. More than the “Biggest Little City in the World” – it’s is a culinary treasure trove waiting to be explored. As a passionate foodie who’s journeyed through Reno’s vibrant midtown, the Riverwalk District, and Casino Row, I’ve discovered the city’s restaurant scene is as diverse and rich as its culture.
From cozy bistros serving farm-to-table delicacies to avant-garde fusion restaurants that redefine the art of dining, Reno offers many different experiences which can speak to the soul. For those who believe that the essence of a city can be tasted in its food and drink, here’s a curated list of the best restaurants in Reno that have caught my attention.
These are the best restaurants in Reno, alphabetically organized:
Table of Contents
Arario Midtown
Arario Midtown is where the authentic flavors of Korea meet global culinary delights. Situated in Midtown, Reno, this Korean fusion restaurant offers a unique and enjoyable dining experience by blending traditional Korean tastes with local cuisine and flavors.
Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or looking to try something new and exciting, this is a great restaurant. Also on point is their craft cocktail program.
Website | Facebook | Instagram
Last Visited: August 2023.
Beaujolais Bistro
Beaujolais Bistro is Reno’s top spot for authentic French dining. With a culinary approach deeply rooted in traditional French techniques, the bistro promises a dining experience that is both sophisticated and heartwarming.
From the ambiance to the meticulously crafted dishes, every element at Beaujolais Bistro speaks of elegance and passion for the art of French cuisine.
Website: Beaujolais Bistro
Facebook: Beaujolais Bistro Facebook Page
Instagram: Beaujolais Bistro Instagram
Bistro 7
Established in 2008, Bistro 7 has become a cornerstone in Reno’s culinary renaissance. With a team possessing exceptional culinary skills, the restaurant offers innovative cocktails and a diverse wine list to cater to every palate. The ambiance of Bistro 7 is characterized by its sleek, modern sophistication.
Website: Bistro 7 Reno
Bricks Restaurant and Wine Bar
Bricks Restaurant stands as a testament to Reno’s rich gastronomic heritage, boasting over a quarter-century of history. The establishment offers “Timeless American Cuisine,” a harmonious blend of modern sophistication and classic charm.
This is further enhanced by their impeccable service standards. Whether you’re indulging in their exquisite dishes or sipping on a fine wine at the bar, Bricks promises an experience of refined luxury.
Website: Bricks Restaurant and Wine Bar
Facebook: Bricks Restaurant, Reno, Nevada
Dolce Caffé
Dolce Caffé is a family-owned and operated Italian bakery located in Reno, NV, that offers a delightful array of baked goods made with love and passion. Nosh on heartwarming Italian baked goods to their special 4-course dining experience on the patio, Dolce Caffé ensures every visit is memorable.
In addition to their baked delights, they also offer a range of breakfast and lunch options, as well as specialty cakes for birthdays and weddings.
Website: Dolce Caffé
Facebook: Dolce Caffé Facebook Page
Hinoki Sushi
Hinoki Sushi is a relatively new sushi spot located in Reno, NV, already gathering positive reviews and attention for their offerings.
Facebook: Hinoki Sushi Facebook Page
La Posada Real
La Posada Real is a cherished establishment in Reno, offering authentic Mexican cuisine crafted from cherished family recipes. The restaurant is known for its house-made sauces and a diverse menu that also includes Indian cuisine.
Website: La Posada Real
Facebook: La Posada Real Facebook Page
La Strada
La Strada, situated in the heart of Reno, is renowned for its authentic Northern Italian cuisine. The restaurant is particularly famous for its Mushroom Ravioli, which was recognized by the Food Network in 2019 as the “Best Pasta in the Country.”
The ambiance at La Strada exudes Italian elegance, making guests feel as if they’ve been transported to a cozy corner in Italy. With its award-winning food and wine, La Strada offers an unparalleled dining experience that combines the romance of Italy with the warmth of home.
Website: La Strada at Eldorado At THE ROW
Last Visited: August 2023
Liberty Food & Wine Exchange
Liberty Food & Wine Exchange is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Situated in the heart of Reno, this artisan eatery and bar is dedicated to the art of the exchange – be it conversations, bites, or knowledge about food and wine.
With a menu designed for those who love to graze and share, Liberty offers a fusion of international cuisine combined with the organic flavors of Northern Nevada’s local farmers and ranchers. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a cocktail, shop for artisanal meats and house-made breads, or simply indulge in their hand-crafted plates, Liberty promises an unforgettable “fork and knife moment.”
Website: Liberty Food & Wine Exchange
Facebook: Liberty Food & Wine Exchange Facebook Page
Lulou’s
Lulou’s offers a blend of modern American cuisine with a touch of international flair. The restaurant is known for its upscale ambiance, impeccable service, and a menu that promises a gastronomic journey. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic steak or a contemporary dish with a twist, Lulou’s promises an unforgettable dining experience.
Website: Lulou’s
Facebook: Lulou’s Facebook Page
Oyster & Sushi Bar on the Sky Terrace
Located on the scenic Sky Terrace inside Atlantis Casino, overlooking the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Oyster & Sushi Bar both a la carte and all you can eat options. Find a variety of savory soups, raw oysters, and over 50 types of Nigiri and Maki sushi. Diners can enhance their dining experience with a selection of premium sake, plum wines, and imported beers.
I went for the all-you-can-eat sushi, ordered a bottle of wine, a bottle of sake. Having no other sushi in Reno to compare it to, I found it to be an average experience in terms of innovative sushi rolls. If you’re really hungry, the AYCE is a great option, otherwise a la carte and getting a couple rolls per person is a better deal. Service was excellent all around.
What makes this restaurant noteworthy is the view of Reno, especially during sunset.
Website: Atlantis Casino Resort Spa
Last Visited: August 2023.
Prost Biergarten
Prost Biergarten Reno is a vibrant spot where it feels like Oktoberfest every day. Located in Reno, NV, this bar offers a traditional German atmosphere, making it a go-to place for those looking to experience a slice of German culture.
Website: Prost Biergarten Reno
Facebook: Prost Biergarten Reno Facebook Page
Instagram: Prost Reno Biergarten Instagram
Sawasdee Thai
Dive into the rich and aromatic world of Thai cuisine at Sawasdee Thai Restaurant in Sparks, Nevada. Frequently called out by locals as the best Thai in Reno/Sparks.
Website: Sawasdee Thai
Facebook: Sawasdee Thai Restaurant Facebook Page
Instagram: Sawasdee Thai Instagram
Smith and River
Smith and River offers elevated cuisine and cocktails right on the Truckee River in downtown Reno.
The ambiance offers intimate seating inside, and relaxed views on the outside patio all the while showing off dedication to providing top-notch cuisine, and consistently good service.
Prices and portions provide great value for your dining experience. With shared appetizer and an entree, I could hardly find room for dessert – yet I managed.
Named after owners Colin and MaryBeth Smith, and the Truckee River, the restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with fresh ingredients and amiable service.
The Smith family has deep roots in Reno’s food and restaurant scene, starting from a home kitchen to an industrial catering facility, a fleet of delivery trucks, a full-sized food truck and warehouse of party rental equipment, servicing the entire Reno-Sparks area and beyond.
Alongside Smith and River, Roundabout owns and operates several business units including catering, party rentals, Roundabout Meal Prep, the Tesla Cafe at Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center, the Cafe at the Nevada Museum of Art and Tannenbaum Events Center. Chef Colin is the consulting chef for 14 Escape Lounges in airports across the U.S., including the Reno-Tahoe International Airport. From 2016-2020, the Smiths operated Roundabout Grill inside The Whitney Peak Hotel in downtown Reno.
Website | Instagram
Last Visited: August 2024.
Washoe Public House
Located in the bustling heart of downtown Reno, Washoe Public House stands as a testament to handcrafted dining. The restaurant takes pride in offering fresh, seasonal, and locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring that every dish is prepared from scratch daily.
Website: Washoe Public House
Facebook: Washoe Public House Facebook Page
Other Noteworthy Things
Riverwalk District Wine Walk
Keep tabs on the Reno Riverwalk events calendar for the monthly Wine Walk, sett othe third Saturday of every month from 2 to 5pm.
Sensory Garden
Check out the sensory garden. Walk between willow tunnels, check out the milkweed and buttery garden, native flowers, ducks, and green lush grass to walk on.
The pesticide-free planter beds of the Sensory Garden are themed to the five senses, inviting all visitors to interact with each of them.
- TOUCH the plants, rocks, moss (try this with your eyes closed)
- SMELL the flowers and leaves
- LISTEN to grasses whisper, birds sing, insects buzz
- OBSERVE the color, shapes, and interactions of the plants
- TASTE the herbs or tomatoes fresh from the plant
Website: https://www.ktmb.org/sensory-garden/
Shim’s Speakeasy
Website: https://shimssurplus.com/
The Office Happy Hour
Update Log:
August 26, 2024 – Updated info and photos for Smith and River. Updated formatting and wording around article.
August 25, 2024 – Removed Centro Bar & Kitchen from the list. They are a decent tapas option, but after retrying in 2024, no longer worthy of being on this best of Reno’s restaurants.
August 2023 – First published.
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I strive to paint vivid landscapes with my words, bringing the magic of far-off lands and enchanting aromas to life for my readers. Combine passion for exploration and the art of gastronomy in an unending ode to the senses. When I’m not traversing the globe, I find solace in the earth beneath my fingertips, tending to my garden and working on projects around my verdant oasis. MK Library serves as a beacon, guiding fellow travelers and homebodies alike to embrace sustainability, nurturing both our planet and our souls with purpose. Full Bio.