By: Adrianna Verecchia

Las Vegas is a city that has always been synonymous with glitz, glamour, and the promise of high-stakes excitement. Among the bright lights and bustling casinos lies a storied establishment that has stood the test of time, catering to celebrities, mobsters, and food enthusiasts alike: Pieros Italian Cuisine. With a rich history intertwined with the Las Vegas mafia, a feature in the iconic film “Casino,” a secret VIP menu, and an unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, Pieros has solidified its reputation as the premier Italian restaurant in Las Vegas.

Pieros opened its doors in 1982, during a period when Las Vegas was experiencing a metamorphosis from a frontier town to the entertainment capital of the world. Founded by Freddie Glusman, Pieros quickly became a favorite haunt for the city’s elite, including notorious figures from the world of organized crime. The restaurant’s intimate, dimly-lit ambiance provided the perfect backdrop for clandestine meetings and deals made over sumptuous meals.

The connection between Pieros and the Las Vegas mafia is not merely anecdotal; it’s a part of the restaurant’s lore. During the 1980s, Las Vegas was a city under the watchful eyes of mobsters who controlled much of the casino and entertainment industry. Pieros served as a neutral ground where rival factions could dine in peace, broker deals, and enjoy the finer things in life away from the prying eyes of law enforcement.

One of the most notable associations between Pieros and the mafia is its appearance in Martin Scorsese’s iconic 1995 film “Casino.” The film, which delves into the intricate world of mafia-run casinos in Las Vegas, features Pieros in several scenes, cementing its place in pop culture and mafia lore. The restaurant’s authentic decor and ambiance made it the perfect stand-in for the period setting, bringing to life the glamour and danger of the era. The movie stars Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone, and provides a gritty look at the mob’s influence over Las Vegas during the 1970s and 80s. For fans of the movie, dining at Pieros is like stepping into a living piece of cinematic history, where they can relive the drama and intrigue of one of Scorsese’s masterpieces.

One of the many factors that set Pieros apart from other restaurants is its secret “VIP” menu. This exclusive menu is not listed among the regular offerings and is only available to those in the know. The dishes on this clandestine menu are crafted with the utmost care and feature some of the most exquisite ingredients available. The secret menu is a nod to Pieros’ storied past, offering patrons a taste of the exclusivity and privilege that defined the restaurant’s early days.

To access this menu, one must often be a regular, someone who has earned the trust and favor of the restaurant’s management. The dishes on this menu are rumored to include unique, off-menu items crafted with the finest ingredients and meticulous attention to detail. This element of secrecy and privilege further enhances Pieros’ reputation as a premier dining destination in Las Vegas.

The VIP menu includes unique creations that are tailored to the preferences of the restaurant’s most discerning guests. Whether it’s a specially aged cut of beef, a rare seafood delicacy, or a bespoke pasta dish, the VIP menu ensures that dining at Pieros is always a memorable and unique experience. This element of exclusivity has helped maintain Pieros’ allure among celebrities, politicians, and other high-profile patrons who appreciate the finer things in life.

One of the cornerstones of Pieros’ enduring success is its exceptional service. The waitstaff at Pieros are not merely servers; they are highly trained professionals dedicated to providing an unparalleled dining experience. Many of the waiters have been with the restaurant for decades, developing relationships with regular patrons and understanding their preferences down to the finest detail.

This level of service is rare in today’s fast-paced dining environment, but at Pieros, it is a matter of tradition and pride. The staff’s commitment to excellence ensures that every guest, whether a first-timer or a long-standing patron, receives personalized and attentive service, making every visit memorable.

Among the many culinary delights on Pieros’ menu, its veal dishes are particularly renowned. The kitchen, led by a team of expert chefs, prepares these dishes with a level of care and expertise that has earned them acclaim from food critics and diners alike.

The Veal Marsala, featuring tender veal scallops cooked in a rich Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms, is a standout. Another favorite is the Veal Piccata, where the veal is delicately sautéed and served with a tangy lemon-caper sauce. These dishes embody the best of Italian cuisine, combining fresh ingredients with traditional cooking techniques to create flavors that are both comforting and sophisticated.

Over the past four decades, Pieros has established itself as the premier Italian restaurant in Las Vegas. Its unwavering commitment to quality, authenticity, and excellence has earned it a place in the hearts of both locals and visitors from around the world. The restaurant’s ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to its roots is a testament to its enduring appeal.

Pieros’ menu is a celebration of Italian cuisine, featuring a wide array of dishes that cater to every palate. From classic antipasti and fresh salads to handmade pastas and succulent seafood, each dish is crafted with the finest ingredients and meticulous attention to detail. The restaurant’s wine list is equally impressive, boasting an extensive selection of Italian and international wines that perfectly complement the menu.

The ambiance at Pieros is a blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. The dim lighting, plush leather booths, and tasteful decor create an inviting atmosphere that transports diners to a different era. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, a business meeting, or a family celebration, Pieros provides the perfect setting for any occasion.

Dining at Pieros is more than just a meal; it is an experience that combines the best of Las Vegas’ culinary and cultural heritage. The restaurant’s ambiance, steeped in history and elegance, provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, Pieros offers an atmosphere of sophistication and warmth that is hard to find elsewhere.

In addition to its rich history and culinary excellence, Pieros is also a place where legends are born and memories are made. It is a restaurant that has witnessed the evolution of Las Vegas from a desert outpost to a global entertainment hub, all while maintaining its commitment to quality and tradition.

Pieros is more than just a restaurant; it is a living piece of Las Vegas history. From its early days as a meeting place for the city’s most powerful figures to its portrayal in the iconic film “Casino,” Pieros has played a significant role in shaping the cultural and culinary landscape of Las Vegas. The secret “VIP” menu, world-famous veal dishes, and high-class professional waitstaff are just a few of the elements that make Pieros a standout dining destination.

For those looking to experience the best Italian cuisine Las Vegas has to offer, Pieros is a must-visit. Its rich history, commitment to excellence, and timeless appeal make it a true culinary gem in the heart of the entertainment capital of the world. To learn more about Pieros or to make a reservation, visit their website at www.pieroscuisine.com.