Downtown Las Vegas is a burgeoning area of town with fulfilled potential and much promise. As a relocated local, I’ve had a pleasure of exploring various places in downtown. I may need to get out more, but downtown Las Vegas gives me Cali hipster vibes at times, so I’m always down to try some more places (to reconnect with the Cali part of my heart). Until then, check out some GRAYT PLACES, below:

1. If you want to try an assortment of places to eat, shop, and relax, visit Downtown Container Park:

2. If you want to try some healthy & vegan selections, head to Container Park and stop by Simply Pure LV:

3. If you’re in the mood for some coffee and a hub to catch up on some work, try Makers & Finders Las Vegas:

4. If you’re looking for more of a family-styled, neighborhood eatery try PublicUs:

5. If you’re in the mood for a myriad of pizza options in a lively setting, try Pizza Rock Las Vegas:

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[GRAYT PLACE] is a highlight-based feature segment covering [GRAYT PLACES] in [GRAYT CITIES]. Exploring the location, the vibe & atmosphere, and the brand of GRAYT attractions, eateries, social houses, and other must-do’s.

The post Five Grayt Places to Frequent in #DTLV first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

To say that Truffles N’ Bacon surprised me with its vibe, atmosphere, and cuisine would be an understatement. Expecting high-tea-esque type of cuisine, once I looked at the menu, I knew that I was in for a fulfilling experience. Beyond pleased, this Green Valley Las Vegas’ Cafe impressed me with its savory selections and sultry culture. Learn more about the the establishment, the food, and the vibe & atmosphere:

The Establishment:

Although Green Valley is far from where I reside, it’s always great trying different restaraunts with friends. Truffles N’ Bacon’s cafe settings makes it the perfect place to catch up and converse with friends. Positioned amongst other eateries, TrufflesNBacon is a GRAYT PLACE to simply come, retreat, and  relax with GOOOOOD FOOOOOD.

Food:

Can we talk? I am a self-proclaimed bacon lover…so anything with bacon…I automatically love. Nonetheless, TrufflesNBacon’s bacon jam is superbly tasty–makes you dance like Michael Jackson in his “Jam” video, ha! Then, when you add that to the Godfather Mac N’ Cheese, you’re in for a captivating encounter with Mac N’ Cheese with Buffalo Chicken. Paired with their “Truffle Fries,” this is definitely a once of month type of meal (on account of watching one’s health). Nonetheless, the combination of flavors and textures elevate your brunch/lunch!

Vibe & Atmosphere:

After sitting and conversing with my good friend, we realized the cafe was playing R&B Jam after R&B Jam after R&B jam! Before we knew it, we realized TrufflesNBacon definitely synced their TLC or Mary J. Blige Pandora station to the speakers, Ha! Possibly a coincidence or possibly a purposeful  parallel to the soulful flavors in the food, TrufflesNBacon definitely cultivates an unexpected soulful atmosphere!

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[GRAYT PLACE] is a highlight-based feature segment covering [GRAYT PLACES] in [GRAYT CITIES]. Exploring the location, the vibe & atmosphere, and the brand of GRAYT attractions, eateries, social houses, and other must-do’s.

The post GRAYT PLACE: Truffles N’ Bacon Cafe #LasVegas first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

New week! New opportunities to try new places for lunch or dinner if you’re in Vegas! Moods vary, so check out Five GRAYT Places to Eat at Around Las Vegas depending on what mood you’re in! Click on the pictures below to check out their GRAYT PLACE Reviews!

1. If you’re in the mood for delicious, yet nutritious eats, try Lyfe Kitchen:

2. If you’re in the mood for some good Happy Hour eats, try Born and Raised Las Vegas:

3. If you’re free during general “Happy Hour” hours & you’d like a goooooood burger, try View Wine Bar & Kitchen:

4. If you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican Corn & decent tacos on Taco Tuesday, try Pinches Tacos:

5. If you’re in the mood for anything with bacon (especially if you’re in the adventurous mood to try bacon jam), try TrufflesNBacon Cafe:

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[GRAYT PLACE] is a highlight-based feature segment covering [GRAYT PLACES] in [GRAYT CITIES]. Exploring the location, the vibe & atmosphere, and the brand of GRAYT attractions, eateries, social houses, and other must-do’s.

The post GRAYT PLACES: Five Places to Eat in #Vegas first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Las Vegas Strip somewhat characterizes your time in Vegas–eateries, nightlife, shopping malls, and more! The holidays are coming up, so I wanted to share a few GRAYT PLACES to eat at if you find yourself on the strip anytime soon. Scroll below & click on the pictures to check out their GRAYT PLACE reviews:

1. In need of a good burger, try Ketchup Premium Burger Bar, Planet Hollywood Miracle Mile Shops

2. Want something experimental, try Bruxie, The Park between the New York New York & Monte Carlo:

3. Want a more brunch appropriate location, try Jardin, The Encore at Wynn

4. Want more than a few restaurant selections, try The Linq

5. Want dessert, try Sprinkles at The LINQ

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[GRAYT PLACE] is a highlight-based feature segment covering [GRAYT PLACES] in [GRAYT CITIES]. Exploring the location, the vibe & atmosphere, and the brand of GRAYT attractions, eateries, social houses, and other must-do’s.

The post GRAYT PLACES: Five Places to Eat at on the #LasVegas Strip first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

Slowly, but surely, I’m becoming a taco person. Therefore, when I learned about Pinches Tacos in Vegas via Instagram, I knew I had to try them out! To my delight, I seen they had Mexican Corn, so I knew that if i weren’t in a Taco Mood, Pinches would somehow still fulfill me. Heading to their Southwest Las Vegas location on #TacoTuesday (but before the Taco Tuesday deals started), I knew I was in for an exciting experience by the decor alone. Check out a few reasons why this is a GRAYT PLACE and a spot you should visit, #wheninvegas:

The Establishment: Hailed as an eatery offering, “Real Mexican Food by Real Mexicans,” the Pinches Tacos establishment has two locations in Las Vegas: one in Southwest Las Vegas (more of a locals’ getaway) and one located in Downtown Container Park (more a tourists’ retreat type of location). The Southwest Las Vegas location automatically embeds in you into Latino culture with the bright colors, Mexican art, make-shift food truck, and various seating arrangements. The size of the restaurant really allows you to take in the Mexican culture Pinches’s succeeds at conveying

The Food:

Admittedly, I’m more of a soft shell taco type of guy when I do indulge in a taco or two. Two was the quantity choice for tacos when visiting Pinches Tacos–Asada/Grilled Angus Beef Taco & Camaron/Shrimp with Veracruz Slaw Taco. Both decent, THE MEXICAN CORN LITERALLY SET THE BAR FOR ALL MEXICAN CORN. I would literally commute to Pinches Taco daily for their Mexican corn. My mouth is literally salivating for this corn on the cob with Mexican cream, cheese, and Chilli Powder.

The Vibe & Atmosphere:

The Southwest location is interesting because it’s practically on the outskirts of the city, yet is placed within The Gramercy Las Vegas, a growing office-retail-living community. When visiting this location, you’ll definitely encounter more locals. I went a little after lunch hours, so I’m assuming its more populated and frequented during the weekends, during happy hour. Nevertheless,  while you’re waiting on the Mexican (with a side of corn tortillas to sop up the leftover seasonings on the corn), you’d feel as if you’re in on an urban street block awaiting for friends eager for some good eats!

Next time you’re in Vegas or in the mood for some good Mexican food, connect with Pinches Tacos:

Pinches, Downtown Las Vegas
E, 707 Fremont St #5
Las Vegas, NV 89101

Pinches, Southwest Las Vegas
9205 W. Russell Road, Suite 190
Las Vegas, Nevada 89148

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[GRAYT PLACE] is a highlight-based feature segment covering [GRAYT PLACES] in [GRAYT CITIES]. Exploring the location, the vibe & atmosphere, and the brand of GRAYT attractions, eateries, social houses, and other must-do’s.

The post GRAYT PLACE: @PinchesTacos Las Vegas first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

Growing up, I would drive pass by the Left of Center Art Gallery at least once a week. Although they’ve been established in North Las Vegas for 20 years, it wasn’t until recently that I stopped by to explore the space. A non-profit establishment, Left of Center is a Las Vegas art gallery exhibiting various expressions of art and culture.

To my surprise, my curiosity yielded enriching benefits, as Left of Center houses “The Museum Collection of African Art” presented by Calvin B. Jones, Lou & Vicki Richardson, & Joseph Walker. With art representing various places throughout Africa, Left of Center is a gallery worth exploring if you’re ever in North Las Vegas. Not convinced yet, here’s four reasons you should check out the Left of Center Art Gallery:

1. Cultural Representation: In Las Vegas, it’s so important to have establishments that express and share the rich cultures of the world–beyond the cultural mirage that can be, the Strip. Left of Center’ Museum Collection of African Art serves as a unique portal into African culture, unlike other locations in the Las Vegas Valley.

2. Diverse Art Installments: The African Art Exhibit showcases various art from various African cultures via various art mediums–from masks, to paintings, to boat and throne replica, to African weavings (Wooven jute fibers from the Jones Collection, below), and African instruments. Through these various mediums, you’re given the opportunity to divest your energy away from typical Las Vegas “usualties” and emerge yourself into African culture.

3. Nonprofit Initiative: Additionally, Left of Center Gallery operates as a nonprofit initiative. As a nonprofit entity, LOC does not operate for the benefit of profit, but they operate for the benefit of the community–exhibited through the African Art residency and the more seasonal exhibition space on the first floor.

4. Local Support: Left of Center functions as multi-functional space–on the first floor, they house a seasonal gallery space (currently, they’re housing an exhibit from UNLV BFA students) and a studio for local artists to come to create. Their local studio solidifies Left of Center’s support for the cultural and creative enrichment of the community.

To think that I was a few urges away from missing out on this opportunity–after having an issue with confusion about where to enter I prompted myself to leave until I learned of the African Art exhibit via Google Maps–I’m pleased with Left of Center’s existence in North Las Vegas. Definitely a GRAYT PLACE worth exploring!

Connect with Left of Center Art Gallery & Studio:
2207 W Gowan Rd
North Las Vegas, NV 89032
(702) 647-7378

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[GRAYT PLACE] is a highlight-based feature segment covering [GRAYT PLACES] in [GRAYT CITIES]. Exploring the location, the vibe & atmosphere, and the brand of GRAYT attractions, eateries, social houses, and other must-do’s.

The post GRAYT PLACE: Four Reasons to Explore Left of Center Art Gallery & Studio Las Vegas first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

Being present in life has its perks, such as finding cool places while driving to certain destinations and then correlating that place with a dope Instagram post you seen. That is what happened when discovering, PublicUs, a Downtown Las Vegas Fremont East District eatery. Healthy, urban, and family friendly, PublicUs fosters fulfillment and functionality for those strolling through Downtown.

The Establishment: PublicUs is located in the DTLV Fremont East District, one of the districts on the outskirts of the hustle and bustle of Downtown Las Vegas. PublicUs’ location outside of the heart of downtown enhances its “a neighborhood’s own” nature of the establishment. With its involvement of UNLV’s Urban Design Studio at UNLV’s School of Architecture, it’s open seating, art installations, a relaxed Coffeebar feeling, and it’s large bench-like tables, PublicUs is definitely an establishment for “us,” us being whoever wants to feel a part of the neighborhood.

The Food: Although I am no vegan or vegetarian, a good healthy eatery is invigorating to my soul and to my eyes. As a canteen-styled establishment, PublicUs offers daily selections to select from and a standard menu with consistent offerings. During my visit, I tried their Cauliflower Slaw, one of their daily selections. The slaw contained cauliflower, tomatoes, beets, and a few other things that contributed to its sweet and savory taste experience. Priced reasonably ($4.85 for slaw), PublicUs offers an arrangement of Sandwiches, salads, toasts, sweets, coffees, and an arrangement of different drinks; ensuring a reasonably priced lunch or dinner.

The Vibe/Atmosphere: PublicUs feels like it’s made for the neighborhood you grew up in–very neighborhood friendly. The canteen-styled eatery is one that seemingly acclimates to the culture surrounding the establishment versus invoking a particular culture on its surroundings. A hub of sorts for working professionals, students, families, and friends, PublicUs cultivates an experience that makes you feel as if you walked two blocks to your neighborhood’s signature eating spot–no matter how far you traveled to get to the establishment.

In Vegas? Try this GRAYT PLACE!
PublicUs
1126 Fremont St.
Las Vegas, NV 89101

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[GRAYT PLACE] is a highlight-based feature segment covering [GRAYT PLACES] in [GRAYT CITIES]. Exploring the location, the vibe & atmosphere, and the brand of GRAYT attractions, eateries, social houses, and other must-do’s

The post GRAYT PLACE: @PublicUsLV Downtown #LasVegas first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

Jardin at the Encore is a posh, lite American casual dining space seemingly perfect for a brunch or lunch retreat. Recently, I arranged for lunch with a good friend of mine to catch up over life and recent developments–to my delight, the establishment, food, and ambiance perfectly fused together for a great time. 

The Establishment:

As a local, brunching at places on the Strip isn’t common–at least for me–as they’re socially accepted as “tourist spots”. Now with residency back in Las Vegas, exploring new locations has become vital. Jardin is relatively easy to find as an adjacent to the Encore Pool in the Steve Wynn’s Encore. After parking and walking through the Encore or the Wynn, you’re greeted with an open entrance and hosts to facilitate your reservation. Jardin brightens up your noon with floral decor and a pristine dining area, in addition to patio adjacent to the Encore Pool. 

The Food:

I seen a picture of the Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich on Instagram and knew I had to try the sandwich. With a buttered bun and fresh & flavorful Cole slaw, the succulent fried chicken breast is savory and tender; nevertheless, the herb ranch steals the show with its creaminess and spicy undertones. Jardin is definitely a splurge ($18.00 for Sandwich); nevertheless, the establishment, the atmosphere, and experience are seemingly cushioned into the price. 

The Vibe & Atmosphere:

Quiet & peaceful, yet social and interactive; Jardin is a perfect place for catching up with a friend in peace and/or in a relaxing atmosphere. Casual resort wear will blend you into the conservatory decor and interior design. With “in-the-round views,” this relaxed dining restaraunt easily comforts you in it’s panoramic views and kind waitress that seemingly do their best to perfect your experience. 

The post GRAYT PLACE: Jardin at @WynnLasVegas first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

Occasionally, I would pick up my father from work, and on my route to pick him up I noticed this hip, trendy coffee bar that was very reminiscent of something I would find in Santa Monica. Anything that is reminiscent of California in Las Vegas I’m destined to try; thus, I was destined to try Makers & Finders Las Vegas, to my eventual delight.

The Establishment: Makers & Finders Las Vegas is an urban coffee bar with Latin comfort food specialties located in Downtown Las Vegas. With nearby street parking and nearby boutiques, the establishment resonates with the “urban” essence of a downtown, similar to that of a Downtown Santa Monica coffee bar location or boutiques in Hollywood. Transcending what a tourist would expect Vegas to be, this location and it’s accessibility makes it easy for tourists and locals to locate.

The Food: I know, I know, from a look at what I ordered, you’re probably asking how could I go to a coffee bar with Latin comfort foods and not get coffee or something more Latin, eh?

One thing is for sure, that I’ll return to try more of their selections and to get their Sauteed Brussels again!!! Served more so like a salad, their warm Sauteed Brussels were absolutely delicious sauteed in lime juice and parmesan! AMAZING! The Sauteed Brussels truly attests to @MakerLV’s commitment to “dishes made with passion and thoughtful presentation.”

The Vibe & Atmosphere: As a local and resident for over 20 years, Makers & Finders removes you from the fast pace that Las Vegas can evoke and that the nearby Strip can force on you. The white walls with yellow accents and large glass windows permits bright sunlight throughout your duration at Makers & Finders. Beyond the relaxing, yet productive ambiance, you’ll brunch or lunch with a diverse group of people–from students to attorneys to graphic designers. Warm, welcoming, relaxing, and conducive to productivity!

Connect with this GRAYT PLACE:

Makers & Finders LV
1120 SOUTH MAIN ST #110
LAS VEGAS, NV 89101
(702) 586-8255
www.makerslv.com

Instagram: @makerslv

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[GRAYT PLACE] is a highlight-based feature segment covering [GRAYT PLACES] in [GRAYT CITIES]. Exploring the location, the vibe & atmosphere, and the brand of GRAYT attractions, eateries, social houses, and other must-do’s.

The post GRAYT PLACE: Makers & Finders Urban Coffee Bar (@MakersLV) first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

Last week, I had the opportunity to ride out to Lake Havasu City, Arizona spontaneously with family. What was a means to napping turned into an adventure, when I learned of Lake Havasu’s London Bridge. Unsure of its authenticity, research notes that this Bridge was once located in London in the early 1800’s. Seeing this site was even the more meaningful, as I remembered the freezing journey I trekked to see London’s bridges in the fall of 2012. Explore three interesting facts you should know if visiting this piece of history:

1. Prior to London’s rise in population and urbanization, this was the functioning “London Bridge” in London: When traffic across the bridge became too heavy, the bridge was dismantled and sold because of its failing durability.
2. Beyond “Lake Havasu” itself, when dismantled, the original London Bridge began re-assembly in 1961 in Lake Havasu City and opened in 1971, in efforts to attract you–tourists.
3. If you travel to London to see today’s London Bridge over the River Thames (below), you’ll notice it looks strikingly similar to the bridge in Lake Havasu City. Interestingly, when reassembled, the original stones were numbered for accountability measures!

Definitely an unexpected surprise to my spare of the moment travels. Explore more GRAYT FACTS about the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City. Reaffirmed through this discovery: Continue to explore, you’ll be amazed with what you will find and what you will connect to!

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GRAYT PLACE] is a highlight-based feature segment covering [GRAYT PLACES] in [GRAYT CITIES]. Exploring the location, the vibe & atmosphere, and the brand of GRAYT attractions, eateries, social houses, and other must-do’s.

The post GRAYT PLACE: Three Interesting Facts If You Visit the London Bridge in #Arizona first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

While living in Argentina, I would occasionally scope restaurants in Vegas to try when I returned–BAR was on the top of my list to try. Born and Raised Las Vegas is an 21 and over sports bar and tavern in the Southern regions of Las Vegas.

Establishment: Known as the home of the UNLV Rebels on the road, Born and Raised LV is seemingly a hub for locals to unwind and indulge in good food and good drinks (if that’s your thing). With bar seating, dine-in seating, and patio seating, BAR LV is seemingly adjustable for any sized group and/or party. If you’re not a local, you’d definitely get a sense of several aspects that characterizes locals–with much UNLV and Las Vegas memorabilia.

Food: My good friend recommended the Fried Macaroni and Cheese Bites ***Insert Heart Eyed Emoji***. Honestly, those were the only reason I came here and I was definitely fulfilled. Crispy, yet succulent and juicy, these Bites are literally a reason, in itself, to come thru (during Happy Hour for cheaper appetizer prices).

In addition to the bites, I ordered the “Cowboy Classic Sliders”, that came in second place to the bites (they were the definitive moment of my BAR encounter).

Vibe & Atmosphere: Granted the restaurant was created to capture the essence of one born and raised in Las Vegas, the restaurant captures the high energy of the city with multiple screens for multiple sports events or broadcasts, yet captures the “life outside of the strip” with the establishments ability to foster an environment conducive for interactive and engaging conversation. Nevertheless, you don’t have to be born and raised in Las Vegas to enjoy the Born and Raised establishments!

Connect with this GRAYT PLACE:

BORN AND RAISED LV
7260 S Cimarron Rd
Las Vegas, NV 89113

The post GRAYT PLACE: Born and Raised #LasVegas first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

Ketchup Premium Burger Bar is located in the Miracle Miles Shops at the Planet Hollywood Las Vegas. Located at the entrance of Miracle Mile, as you enter the shops from the parking garage, Ketchup offers a variety of burgers, sandwiches, and an array of “ketchups” to kick off an afternoon of shopping or browsing.

Establishment: As one of the first establishments you’ll see entering the Miracle Mile Shops from the parking garage,colored red as a tribute to “Ketchup,” the restaurant is very open and subsequently inviting. With an option to chow down at the bar or the seating area, either way you’ll enjoy the latest sports game or television special with large screens throughout the restaurant.

Food: BOTH times I dined at Ketchup, I ordered and devoured the “Mac Attack” Burger. My mouth waters thinking about the burger and looking at the picture; the macaroni and cheese serves as the substitute for a standard cheese slice.

The price point for the burgers sizzle around $12-16. Based on friends’ burger choices, their specialty burgers are more satisfying.

Vibe & Atmosphere: Ketchup is best described as a fusion between a diner & sports bar. While waiting about 5-7 minutes for your food, you can indulge in sports broadcasts or taste test their ketchup choices (close to ten, if I recall correctly). Open and liberating, Ketchup gives you burger joint vibes that’ll allow you to enjoy whatever burger you choose or people watch! (Choose a specialty burger!)

Connect with this GRAYT PLACE:

Ketchup Premium Burger Bar
Miracle Mile Shops @ Planet Hollywood
3663 Las Vegas Blvd S.
Las Vegas, NV

The post GRAYT PLACE: Ketchup Premium Burger Bar #LasVegas first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.

Bruxie is the “Home of the Original Waffle Sandwhich” located in “The Park” at the New York New York, Las Vegas. Roscoes Chicken & Waffles in LA first put me on to the combination of the waffle and the fried chicken; nevertheless, while strolling through “The Park,” Bruxie enlightened me to the potential in a waffle and fried chicken Sandwich.

Establishment: Near the new T-Mobile Arena here in Las Vegas,  Bruxie is one of the diverse restaurants in the area. As you walk in, you’re prompted to order your choice of “Waffle Sandwhich,” Chicken tenders, and other delectables while you salivate over preceding orders passing you as you wait to order. The local “counter/window-serve chain” offers a unique option for a late lunch.

Food: When I finally reached Bruxie, after 30 minutes of strategizing  the best parking option (paying for parking in Vegas is foreign to me), I encountered another struggle: choosing the original chicken waffle-wich or a pulled pork waffle-wich. Going with the original, I was surprised by the lite waffle and the heftiness of the chicken; the chicken has a standard mainstream seasoning that permits enjoying the flavors of all components. Although it’s somewhat hard to eat (in terms of eating the sandwich like a taco or actual sandwich like a sandwich), the delicioussss “chili honey” made the sandwich worthwhile.

Vibe & Atmosphere: Given its location on the Strip, Bruxie feels very tourist-y and somewhat fast-paced. Although I had a humorous and engaging conversation with a good friend, Bruxie feels like a quick place to come, eat, and finish touring the strip or touring “The Park”. Nevertheless, the staff is very helpful and willing to make your time at the “Home of the Original Waffle Sandwich” comfortable!

Connect with this GRAYT PLACE:
Bruxie
3782 S Las Vegas Blvd,
Las Vegas, NV 89109

The post GRAYT PLACE: @BruxieWaffles #LasVegas first appeared on The Joshua Gray | Live Grayter.