Sen of Japan

What began as a locals' secret in a West Las Vegas strip mall has become one of the city's most admired Japanese restaurants, guided by two veteran Japanese chefs who trained at the highest levels of Las Vegas fine dining. Chef Hiro Nakano spent eight years as head chef at Nobu at the Hard Rock Hotel, while Chef Shinji Shichiri served as head sushi chef at Bellagio's Shintaro — between them, decades of classical Japanese technique and an instinct for extraordinary fish. Sen of Japan's menu centers on pristine nigiri and sashimi accompanied by Chef Shinji's signature house sauces — yuzu soy, truffle oil, citrus ponzu, and apple vinaigrette — replacing the need for standard soy sauce with more nuanced flavor pairings. Michelin recognized the restaurant in 2009, and loyal regulars have been returning weekly for nearly 20 years. The late-night happy hour until 1:30 a.m. has made it an industry favorite across the city.