Jimmy Kimmel is an Emmy-winning comedian and late-night host best known for Jimmy Kimmel Live!. But before all the Hollywood stuff, he was actually a Las Vegas kid. He grew up here from about age nine, and he’s talked often about how the city shaped his sense of humor, his work ethic, and even his taste in food (he’s very loyal to his hometown favorites). That Vegas upbringing still shows – whether he’s sharing local recommendations or poking fun at the Strip, you can tell he knows the city from the inside out.
In 2024, during an interview with People, Kimmel shared his favorite restaurants, bars, and hidden spots. Let’s dig in!
Caesars Palace, a look back in time
The host sees Caesars Palace as a place that bridges the old and new Vegas. But this isn’t his go-to just because of its fame and great restaurants – in fact, some of his family and friends used to work there when he lived in the city. Besides the pure nostalgia factor, he also loves eating at Amalfi and Mr Chow.
Downtown Container Park
This is another Kimmel favorite, for 2 reasons. Firstly, he likes how different the Container Park feels from the rest of the city. In fact, he recommends everyone to spend some time Downtown for a more authentic experience. Secondly, he claims that you’ll not only find great restaurants here, but also antique shops and other gems.
The D Hotel
The second Downtown location that gets a shoutout is The D Hotel, specifically for one fun experience they offer. It’s called a “Sigma Derby” – a racing machine that looks like a toy. You can bet on mechanical horses, gather around with friends (with competitors), and see it all happen. Kimmel says it’s a mix between gambling and a board game, which makes it super fun.
Jimmy Kimmel’s favorite restaurants in Vegas
When it comes to restaurant recommendations, the TV host has a plethora of them.
First on the list, we have MGM’s Carbone, a place that pays homage to the Italian-American restaurants of the mid-20th century, with glamour and tableside service. On the menu, you’ll find elevated classics such as Lobster Fra Diavolo, Chicken Scarpariello, Veal Parmesan and Octopus Pizzaiolo.
The host also mentioned Vetri, a favorite Italian on top of Palms. However, the restaurant has since closed down.
A long time favorite – Farm Basket
Kimmel gives a special shout-out to Farm Basket, an off-the-Strip fried chicken sandwich place that is really important to his family – they used to go here a lot when he was growing up. They’ve been in Vegas since 1973, and you can currently find them at 6148 W Charleston or at 9435 S Rainbow.
There you have it – Vegas though Jimmy Kimmel’s eyes. Don’t forget to stop by his comedy club at the LINQ, too. As he puts it himself, there are always “some funny people there.”