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Paradise Garden Buffet at the Flamingo: What Happened to It
The buffet is gone for good. Here’s the real story, and where to eat at the Flamingo (or find a buffet nearby) instead.
I get asked about this one a lot, usually from people who remember the Paradise Garden Buffet from an old trip and are planning to go back. I hate to be the one to tell you, but it’s not there anymore — and it’s not coming back. Here’s what actually happened, and where I’d point you instead, whether you want to eat at the Flamingo or you just want a good Strip buffet.
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Closed in March 2020, and it never reopened
Paradise Garden Buffet closed at the very start of the pandemic in March 2020, along with most Strip buffets. Unlike a lot of them, it never came back. The space sat empty for years and has since been demolished. Caesars Entertainment (which owns the Flamingo) has permits in for a new upscale restaurant in that mezzanine-level space, but as of this update it hasn’t been named or opened publicly, so I’m not going to guess. I’ll update this page the moment that changes.
Where to Eat at the Flamingo Now
Bugsy & Meyer’s Steakhouse
A classic steakhouse with a speakeasy twist — it includes the hidden Count Room bar. Tip: good pick for a nicer dinner without leaving the property.
Pinky’s by Lisa Vanderpump
Lisa Vanderpump’s newest Vegas spot at the Flamingo. Tip: a fun stop if you’re already a fan of her other Strip restaurants.
Havana 1957
Cuban food and cocktails with a lively, colorful atmosphere. Tip: a nice change of pace from the usual Strip steakhouse options.
Gordon Ramsay Burger
A big, casual burger spot from Gordon Ramsay’s Vegas lineup. Tip: good for a quick, kid-friendly bite between shows or the pool.
Flamingo Food Hall
A casual food court with Johnny Rockets, Wingzone, Bonanno’s New York Pizzeria, Nathan’s Famous, and Auntie Anne’s. Tip: the easiest option if your group can’t agree on one restaurant.
Carlos’n Charlie’s
Lively Mexican food and drinks with a party atmosphere. Tip: a solid pick for a livelier group dinner with a view of the Strip.
Nook Express
A grab-and-go cafe for coffee and quick breakfast or lunch. Tip: your best bet for an early morning coffee before a flight or a day trip.
Still Want a Buffet? Try One of These
Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace
Owned by the same company as the Flamingo (Caesars Entertainment) and widely considered one of the best buffets left on the Strip, with dozens of live cooking stations. It’s a short walk or rideshare from the Flamingo.
Wicked Spoon at the Cosmopolitan
A popular modern brunch buffet with individually-portioned dishes instead of the old-school steam-table setup. Both this and Bacchanal are still open and highly rated as of this update. As always, hours and pricing shift, so check the official site before you go.
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Lori Ballen
REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty Las Vegas, leading The Ballen Group. A lifelong Las Vegan sharing the best of the valley.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this site are affiliate links. Portions of this content are generated by AI.
