A Tasting Tour: Ranking the 6 Best Casino Values in the U.S.

From steakhouse classics in Las Vegas to cult-status burgers in Northern Nevada, America’s casino restaurants are dealing in more than just cards. They also serve unforgettable food and flavors. We hit the road from coast to coast to rank the best casino dishes for you. Hopefully, you’ll find something perfect here; a nice sampling of choices from high-dollar casinos with fine dining to local hidden gems.

 

#1 – The Awful Awful Burger

Baldini’s Casino | Reno/Sparks, Nevada

Let’s get this out of the way: the Awful Awful Burger is NOT awful. At all. In fact, it’s a delightful Reno legend.

Juicy, messy, and stacked with flavor, this half-pound fresh beef patty is grilled to perfection. It is layered with classic toppings and served on a fluffy onion bun that sets it apart. Add in a literal mountain of crispy fries, and you’ve got a plate that’s more satisfying than a jackpot spin and win.

Locals line up for it. Travelers detour out of their way for it. And at under $10, it’s a homerun! It’s hands-down the best burger deal in any casino restaurant in the country.

Local Tip: Get it with a cold beer and sit near the slots. Good food. Good luck. Good life.

 

#2 – Bone-In Filet

Gordon Ramsay Steak | Paris Las Vegas, Nevada

When you’re looking to go big, Gordon Ramsay’s bone-in filet at his Vegas flagship restaurant is a showstopper. Dry-aged, seared to crusted perfection, and buttery inside, it’s a masterclass in decadence.

Pair it with a side of truffle fries or sub out that iconic beef wellington for the full celebrity-chef treatment.

 

#3 – King Crab Legs Buffet Station

Beau Rivage | Biloxi, Mississippi

Some things are worth making a mess. The seafood station at the Beau Rivage buffet is one of them. Fresh, hot-drawn butter-dipped king crab legs are cracked and served to your heart’s content. No limits. No regrets.

It’s the kind of dish that makes you say, “just one more,” until you’re stuffed to where you can’t move.

 

#4 – Lobster Grilled Cheese

Ocean Casino Resort | Atlantic City, New Jersey

This isn’t your mom’s grilled cheese. Piled high with lobster claw meat, fontina, and gouda, this golden, buttery sandwich is served with tomato bisque. It’s a coastal crowd-pleaser with serious fullness and richness of taste.

It’s decadent. It’s comforting. And it’ll make you believe in East Coast casino cuisine.

 

#5 – Carne Asada Street Tacos

Talking Stick Resort | Scottsdale, Arizona

Tucked away inside their signature Mexican cantina, these carne asada tacos are simple but bold. Charred steak, handmade tortillas, fresh lime, where every element is authentic and balanced.

Perfect for a quick bite between blackjack hands or as fuel for a long night at the tables.

 

#6 – Banana Cream Pie

Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House | MGM Grand, Las Vegas, Nevada

This famous pie has a dedicated fanbase. With mile-high layers of banana custard, whipped cream, and a graham cracker crust, it’s rich, nostalgic, and wildly addictive. It’s the kind of dessert that makes full-grown steelworkers close their eyes and sigh like napping toddlers.

 

#7 – Sushi Omakase Platter

Mohegan Sun | Uncasville, Connecticut

For a casino restaurant surprise, head to the sushi bar at Mohegan Sun. Their omakase chef’s tasting platter offers premium cuts of fish with seasonal presentation. It’s as elegant as any high-end sushi spot in Manhattan and comes with a side of slot machine glow.

Bye-bye Buffets. Hello New Discoveries!

Casino dining used to be all buffets and prime rib specials. Today? There are culinary experiences that rival international destinations. Whether you’re in a tux at a Vegas steakhouse or wearing jeans at Reno locals’ favorite, there’s a plate waiting for you that’s worth the gamble.

Hungry yet? Make your way to Baldini’s in Sparks, Nevada, and see why the Awful Awful is the burger locals rave about. Baldini’s, where the best things happen.

THE BEST THINGS HAPPEN AT BALDINI’S