23 Unique Dining Experiences in Reno That Will Impress Any Foodie

365

Reno’s food scene is a hidden treasure, packed with bold flavors and creative spots that deliver an unforgettable experience for food lovers. From upscale steakhouses with a modern twist to quirky diners serving classic comfort food, Reno has something for every craving. Picture yourself savoring fresh sushi at a trendy downtown spot, enjoying wood-fired pizza under twinkling lights, or sampling globally inspired dishes in a cozy, off-the-beaten-path café. Known for its fresh, local ingredients and innovative chefs, Reno blends classic Nevada charm with adventurous culinary vibes. These 23 unique dining experiences highlight the best of The Biggest Little City, making it a must-visit destination for foodies. Get ready to eat your way through Reno’s most exciting and flavorful restaurants!

👉 Pro Tip: Discover Reno’s craft spirits with the 1-Hour Distillery Tour and Tasting Flight! Go behind the scenes to learn the art of making premium whiskey, vodka, and gin, and enjoy a tasting flight of their signature creations. Perfect for spirit lovers, this tour is a fun and flavorful way to explore Reno’s distilling scene. Don’t miss it!

Unique Restaurants in Reno: 23 Incredible Reno Eateries

Reno’s unique restaurants offer a feast for the senses, each with its own flavor and flair. From cozy cafes to upscale dining, we’re showcasing the spots that make Reno’s food scene one-of-a-kind. Join us as we explore the city’s most distinctive eateries,

1. Arario Midtown

• 📍 Location: Midtown Reno
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern Korean / Korean Fusion
• 🔥 Standout Features: Creative takes on Korean classics (e.g., bulgogi fries), trendy atmosphere, good selection of soju and Korean beers.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Korean food lovers seeking modern twists, adventurous eaters, and casual dining.

Get ready for a Korean flavor explosion with a modern twist at Arario Midtown. This trendy Reno spot takes classic Korean dishes and gives them a creative, contemporary spin, resulting in a menu that’s both exciting and incredibly delicious. It’s Seoul food, Reno style!

You should definitely try their famous bulgogi fries, a glorious pile of crispy fries topped with savory marinated beef and spicy mayo. Other popular choices include their inventive Korean fried chicken (KFC) with various sauces, or unique fusion tacos with Korean-inspired fillings.

2. Perenn at Rancharrah

You know you’re in for something special as soon as you walk into Perenn at Rancharrah. The space feels curated but unpretentious, with sunlight pouring across their minimalist-chic dining room and big windows looking out over the rolling green lawns of the old estate. Their rotating seasonal menu puts local flavors front and center, but trust me – the sourdough bread and whipped butter is life-changing. Their ricotta cavatelli is another must-try. I usually find a seat by the window, order a cocktail with locally-milled gin, and just soak in the vibe. It’s an ideal date night spot or a long brunch destination. You’re right next to the public walking trails and the lake, so stroll off your meal at the beautiful Rancharrah property.

3. Bundox Bocce

• 📍 Location: Inside Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Pub Fare / Shareables
• 🔥 Standout Features: Indoor/outdoor bocce courts, shuffleboard/ping pong/arcade games, dog-friendly areas, extensive bar, large event space (22,000 sq ft).
• 🎯 Perfect For: Group outings, bocce players, casual dates, families, dog owners, and food-pairing game enthusiasts.

Roll into good times at Bundox Bocce, inside the Renaissance Hotel! This massive entertainment hub isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a playground featuring indoor and outdoor bocce courts, plus shuffleboard, ping pong, and arcade games. Game on, then grub on!

Refuel between rolls with satisfying American pub fare. Grab handhelds like the Warm Italian Sandwich loaded with meats and provolone. Share some loaded tater tots or crispy chicken wings while you sip on cocktails or beers from their full bar.

4. Pignic Pub & Patio

Pignic Pub & Patio is basically Reno’s backyard party, seven days a week. The vibe is electric and laid-back at the same time – think string lights, picnic tables, local craft beers on tap, and smoke from their legendary in-house barbecue wafting over the crowd. Grab a pulled pork slider or get ambitious with their loaded curly fries. The make-your-own s’mores kits are an unexpected treat and always a hit with groups. Outdoor games, local bands, and friendly pups make it even more inviting. I love sitting outside with a cold pint and people-watching. Bonus: You’re just around the corner from quirky Midtown shops and murals, so you can make a whole afternoon of it.

5. Silk Road International Market

• 📍 Location: Reno (Costco shopping center area)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Middle Eastern / Mediterranean (Persian, Turkish, Afghani influences)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Halal kebabs, imported groceries, market and eatery, regional flavors.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Kebab enthusiasts, Middle Eastern food fans, Halal diners, and adventurous eaters.

Embark on a delicious journey at Silk Road International Market! More than just a market, this spot offers a culinary gateway to the vibrant tastes of Persia, Turkey, and Afghanistan. It’s a treasure trove of imported goods and mouthwatering Halal eats.

Feast on expertly grilled kebabs made with Halal meat, like tender chicken or flavorful lamb, bursting with authentic spices. Their beef koobideh is also a highlight. Browse the aisles packed with unique imported fruits, spices, and candies.

6. Two Chicks

Breakfast and brunch at Two Chicks is a complete mood. Inside, the vibe is fresh and playful, with eggs everywhere – in the decor, the witty menu, and (of course) your plate. Definitely order their signature stuffed French toast, and don’t skip the blood orange mimosa. This place is famously busy on weekends, but it’s 100% worth the wait. After eating here, I love wandering over to the nearby Riverwalk or Midtown for coffee and local shopping. Two Chicks is upbeat, bright, and the kind of place where you want to linger with friends over bottomless coffee.

7. Biggest Little Steakhouse

• 📍 Location: Reno
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $70+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Steakhouse
• 🔥 Standout Features: High diner ratings, quality steaks, classic experience, intimate setting.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Steak lovers and classic dining fans.

Get ready for a classic steakhouse experience at Reno’s aptly named Biggest Little Steakhouse. Its high diner ratings point to a place that knows how to cook a steak right. This is where you go when only a perfectly cooked cut of beef will do.

Expect prime cuts cooked to perfection. Juicy ribeyes, tender filet mignons, or a classic New York strip are all excellent choices. Served alongside traditional steakhouse sides like baked potatoes or creamed spinach, it’s a no-nonsense quality meal.

8. Mari Chuy’s Tequileria – Rancharrah

If you love vibrant flavors and a killer tequila selection, Mari Chuy’s Tequileria at Rancharrah is calling your name. The atmosphere is festive and colorful, with hand-painted murals and a bustling, welcoming energy. Their birria tacos are the stuff of local legend, as is the blood orange margarita (I always order a second one). This is a hot spot for gathering with friends, and the patio seating is dreamy when the weather’s nice. You’re steps from the tranquil walking paths of the Rancharrah estate, making it an easy place to turn happy hour into an evening-long hang. I left vowing to come back for their salsa sampler alone.

9. Gambi’s

• 📍 Location: Reno
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $45 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Eclectic American/Italian-Inspired Comfort Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Unique decor, candlelit dinner tables, delicious desserts.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Families (kid-friendly options), romantic dinners, comfort food lovers, and creative fusion dishes.

Prepare to be charmed by Gambi’s, a super neat Reno restaurant that’s a must-try! Come evening, candlelit tables add a lovely romantic touch. They serve it all – breakfast, lunch, and dinner! The food is consistently delicious, with a great selection.

Don’t miss the amazing cheese risotto, creamy and flavorful. The spot-on chicken piccata with a tangy lemon-caper sauce, or the genius chicken Alfredo quesadilla (get extra Alfredo sauce!), will send your taste buds to heaven. The Captain’s Mushrooms are incredible.

10. The Brewer’s Cabinet

The Brewer’s Cabinet is where craft beer nerds and casual sippers both feel at home. The interior has that cozy industrial feel – exposed brick, Edison bulbs, chilled-out music. Can’t choose between IPAs? Order a flight and ask the staff for pairing suggestions with their food menu. The BC Burger with housemade aioli and a side of garlic fries is iconic, but the wood-fired pizzas are equally drool-worthy. There’s a rooftop patio that’s perfect for sunset beers, and it’s an easy walk to the Truckee River and downtown hotspots. I always appreciate their rotating tap list, which keeps each visit interesting.

11. Kauboi Izakaya

• 📍 Location: Reno (California Ave)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Japanese Izakaya (Pub Food) / Fusion
• 🔥 Standout Features: Japanese tavern vibe with “cowboy” twist, small plates, minimalist decor, fusion dishes.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Japanese food enthusiasts and diners seeking unique fusion experiences.

Saddle up for a unique fusion experience at Kauboi Izakaya, Reno’s first Japanese-style tavern with a clever American West twist! This spot blends the casual, shareable-plate vibe of an izakaya with creative culinary flair. It’s East meets West on a plate.

Graze on an array of Japanese favorites. Flavorful yakitori skewers, like chicken thigh or pork belly, are a highlight. Delicate tempura (shrimp or vegetable), and inventive small plates like hamachi with Asian pear and ponzu gel, also impress.

12. Hinoki Sushi

Step inside Hinoki Sushi and you’re instantly transported far from Reno’s casino clamor. The space is tranquil and artful, with beautiful Japanese woodwork and a sushi bar that draws serious talent. Order the Omakase if you’re feeling bold – the chef’s choice selections show off buttery fish you’d swear they flew in just for you. Their crispy rice tuna bites and Hinoki Roll (with lemon zest and chili oil) are absolute musts. The dining room is intimate, but if the weather’s nice, their patio is an unexpectedly peaceful place for sake and sushi. I still remember my first savory egg custard – my new favorite comfort food. Hinoki is ideal for date night or solo splurges.

13. Liberty Food & Wine Exchange

• 📍 Location: Downtown Reno
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $70 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Italian Influenced / Wine Bar
• 🔥 Standout Features: House-made pasta, charcuterie, and wood-fired pizzas; extensive wine list (with retail option).
• 🎯 Perfect For: Wine lovers, pasta enthusiasts, fans of charcuterie and pizza, and casual dining.

Experience a taste of modern American with Italian flair at Liberty Food & Wine Exchange in downtown Reno. This bustling spot is known for its commitment to house-made ingredients, from fresh pasta to artisanal charcuterie, all complemented by an extensive wine list and a lively open-kitchen atmosphere.

Trying their house-made pasta dishes, like a rich tagliatelle with bolognese or a seasonal ravioli, is a great idea. Their wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings, or a carefully curated charcuterie board, are also fantastic choices to pair with a glass of wine.

14. Great Full Gardens – MIDTOWN

Health-forward doesn’t have to mean boring, and Great Full Gardens proves it. Bright, boho-funky, and full of leafy plants, this Midtown favorite is both nourishing and cool. The vegan Reubens here have a cult following, but everything from their power bowls to the scratch-made soups is worth a try. Don’t miss the golden turmeric latte, especially on a breezy afternoon. Patio seating lets you watch the Midtown crowds roll by, and you’re within easy walking distance to record shops and indie boutiques. Great Full Gardens is my go-to when I want to feel energized but still totally satisfied. Pro tip: the carrot cake is shockingly decadent.

15. Bricks Restaurant & Bar

• 📍 Location: Downtown Reno
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: New American / Upscale Casual
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic building with exposed brick, creative seasonal menu, craft cocktails.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Upscale casual dining, date nights, foodies seeking seasonal flavors, and cocktail lovers.

Dine amidst historic charm at Bricks Restaurant & Bar in downtown Reno. Housed in a beautifully preserved building with exposed brick walls, this spot offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for enjoying creative New American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Their menu changes to reflect the best of the season. You might find perfectly seared scallops with a unique sauce. Tender pork belly preparations or inventive vegetarian entrees also showcase their commitment to flavor and quality. Don’t miss their craft cocktails.

16. R Town Pizza

If you’re craving wood-fired pizza but want a break from the chain scene, R Town Pizza hits the spot. This cozy neighborhood shop has personality in spades – from the local art on the walls to the friendly vibe at the counter. Their Honey Badger pizza, with spicy sausage and a honey drizzle, is a creative standout, and the garlicky cheese knots should never be skipped. Grab a beer from their rotating tap list and settle in at a window seat for prime people-watching. It’s an easy walk to the Discovery Museum and the heart of Midtown. I’m endlessly impressed by their chewy, charred crusts that rival the best in Napa or Brooklyn.

17. Moon Rabbit Cafe

• 📍 Location: Reno (Operates Bimonthly – check schedule/location)
• 💲 Price range: Pay-What-You-Can Community Cafe
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Community Cafe Fare / Chef-Prepared Varied Menu
• 🔥 Standout Features: Bimonthly community dining with pay-what-you-can, high-quality chef-prepared meals, and vegan/GF options.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Community-minded diners and budget-friendly cafe experiences.

Experience dining with heart at Moon Rabbit Cafe, Reno’s unique bimonthly “pay-what-you-can” community gathering! It’s a chance to eat delicious, high-quality food in a welcoming setting where everyone dines together, regardless of means. Pay what you can afford!

Chefs Rob, Cindy, and Melissa create amazing themed dinners. Imagine digging into a Lovely Lasagna Dinner with hand-rolled pasta. Fun Cauliflower Croquettes, or a decadent chocolate mousse, all served with love, are examples of their healthy, chef-prepared meals.

18. Centro Bar & Kitchen

Centro is the kind of modern, urban hideaway you want to linger in, with dim lighting, gleaming subway tiles, and a killer playlist. Their small plates menu lets you sample a little bit of everything, but the pork belly bao and blistered shishitos are seriously addictive. Creative cocktails are front and center – the smoked Old Fashioned arrives dramatically under a cloche. The bar gets lively in the evenings, so arrive early if you want a quiet corner, or come late for the buzzing atmosphere. Right in Midtown, it’s a hop away from vintage shops and late-night dessert spots. I never leave Centro without ordering at least two things I’ve never tried before.

19. Churrasco Brazilian Steakhouse

• 📍 Location: Reno (S. Virginia St)
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $70 per person (Rodizio experience)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Brazilian Steakhouse (Churrascaria – Rodizio style)
• 🔥 Standout Features: Rodizio service with grilled meats, extensive salad bar, and authentic Brazilian steakhouse experience.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Meat lovers, Brazilian BBQ fans, all-you-can-eat enthusiasts, and trying various grilled cuts.

Unleash your inner carnivore at Churrasco Brazilian Steakhouse! Get ready for the Rodizio experience, where gaucho chefs continuously bring skewers of perfectly grilled meats right to your table for slicing. It’s a meat parade, and you have the best seat!

Signal “go” with your table marker. Sample a wide array of succulent cuts, from the signature Picanha (top sirloin cap). Flank steak, lamb chops, and bacon-wrapped chicken are also fantastic. Don’t forget the extensive gourmet salad bar.

20. Brothers Barbecue

Brothers Barbecue keeps things low-key and all about the ‘cue. Don’t expect frills – you come here for tender brisket, smoke-kissed ribs, and their legendary mac and cheese. The interior is rustic, with buckets of sauce on each table and blues playing in the background. The burnt ends platter is absolutely addictive, and the homemade pickles cut through all that smoky richness perfectly. The picnic-style seating makes this a great choice with friends or family. It’s not fancy, but trust me, you won’t care when you’ve got a pile of ribs and cornbread in front of you. This spot is close to some cool Midtown murals if you want to walk off the feast post-lunch.

21. Zagol Ethiopian Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Reno (S. McCarran Blvd)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Authentic Ethiopian
• 🔥 Standout Features: Classic regional dishes, injera bread, cultural dining (eating by hand), Ethiopian art/decor.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Ethiopian food fans, adventurous eaters, cultural explorers, communal plate lovers, and vegetarian diners.

Embark on a flavorful journey at Zagol Ethiopian Restaurant, Northern Nevada’s sole destination for authentic Ethiopian cuisine. Experience the unique tradition of eating savory stews and dishes scooped up with spongy Injera bread – no utensils required!

Savor richly spiced meat dishes like Gored Gored (cubed raw beef seasoned with mitmita). Ye Beg Tibs (sautéed lamb), or a fantastic variety of flavorful vegetarian options like Mesir Wat (red lentil stew), are also popular.

22. Piezzetta Pizza Kitchen

If you love the speed of fast-casual but crave unique, top-tier pies, Piezzetta Pizza Kitchen should be on your radar. It smells like heaven as soon as you walk in, and the set-up lets you customize your own Neapolitan-style pizza. The Fig & Piggy, with figs, prosciutto, and balsamic drizzle, is a standout, but you can go wild with all kinds of creative toppings. The space is clean and modern, with a lively lunch rush and a more chilled-out dinner crowd. Piezzetta is tucked inside the Renaissance Hotel right by the Truckee, so take your pizza to the riverside patio for killer views. My tip: order extra garlic oil for dipping that crackly crust.

23. Estella Tacos Y Mezcal

• 📍 Location: Downtown Reno
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale Mexican / Latin American Street Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Elevated tacos, extensive mezcal selection, locally sourced ingredients.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Taco Tuesday enthusiasts, Mezcal lovers, upscale Mexican cuisine, downtown diners, and Latin American street food.

Elevate your taco game at Estella Tacos Y Mezcal! This chic downtown spot transforms familiar Latin American street food into an upscale cantina experience. Think creative fillings, fresh local ingredients, and an atmosphere buzzing with urban energy.

Dive into inspired tacos. The popular Tacos De Mariscos, featuring fresh fish of the day with chipotle crema, is a must-try. Their carnitas tacos or short rib birria tacos are also fantastic. The real star alongside the food is the impressive selection of smoky Mezcals.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Unique Places to Eat in Reno

This Reno restaurant guide is here to help you find the best spots for every taste and occasion in the city’s dynamic dining landscape.

What is the oldest restaurant in Reno?

The oldest restaurant in Reno is the iconic Casale’s Halfway Club, established in 1937. It’s renowned for its rich history and traditional Italian cuisine. This family-run establishment has been serving generations of patrons, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Reno’s past with its classic decor and time-honored recipes.

What food is famous in Nevada?

Nevada, particularly Reno, is famous for its diverse culinary scene. However, the state is particularly known for its Basque cuisine, a unique blend of Spanish and French influences. Dishes like lamb stew, Basque beans, and sweetbreads are local favorites. Additionally, Nevada’s steakhouses and buffets are also quite popular, reflecting the state’s love for hearty, indulgent meals.

Are there scenic places in Reno to eat?

Reno offers several scenic dining options. Restaurants like La Strada and Roxy at the Eldorado offer elegant settings with beautiful views. For those seeking a meal with a view of the Truckee River, places like Wild River Grille and The Shore Room provide stunning riverside dining experiences. These spots combine great food with picturesque settings, perfect for a memorable meal.

Where can I find cheap eats in Reno?

For cheap eats in Reno, explore areas like Midtown and the Riverwalk District. Here, you’ll find a variety of affordable dining options, from food trucks serving up gourmet bites to cozy cafes with budget-friendly menus. Popular spots include GourMelt for their creative grilled cheese sandwiches and Noble Pie Parlor for their delicious, reasonably priced pizzas.

What are the best fine dining options in Reno?

Reno’s fine dining scene is vibrant, with top choices like Atlantis Steakhouse and Sterling’s Seafood Steakhouse. These establishments offer exquisite menus, exceptional service, and an upscale ambiance. For a unique fine dining experience, Charlie Palmer Steak and Bimini Steakhouse are also noteworthy for their high-quality steaks and elegant settings.

Can I find international cuisine in Reno?

Absolutely! Though Reno doesn’t have any of the worlds best restaurants, it’s still a melting pot of international cuisines. You can enjoy authentic Italian at Campo, savor French delicacies at Beaujolais Bistro, or indulge in Asian flavors at Pho 777 Vietnamese Restaurant. The city’s diverse culinary landscape includes options from Mexican and Indian to Thai and Japanese, catering to all taste preferences.

What are some family-friendly restaurants in Reno?

For a family-friendly dining experience, Squeeze In is a great choice with its fun atmosphere and extensive menu that caters to all ages. Peg’s Glorified Ham n Eggs offers a homely feel with a menu full of comfort food. Additionally, The Cheesecake Factory and BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse are popular for their diverse menus and kid-friendly environments.

Are there any unique dessert spots in Reno?

Reno has several unique dessert spots. Batch Cupcakery offers a range of gourmet cupcakes, including gluten-free and vegan options. For ice cream lovers, Icecycle Creamery provides inventive flavors made with local ingredients. And for those who love pastries, Homage Bakery is a must-visit for its delicious, handcrafted baked goods.

Final Thoughts On Unique Reno Restaurants

Exploring Reno’s culinary landscape is an adventure in itself. From historic establishments to modern culinary marvels, this city offers a dining experience for every palate. Whether you’re seeking scenic views, budget-friendly meals, or the luxury of fine dining, Reno’s diverse restaurant scene has it all, making it among the best places on the West Coast. Our journey through some of the most unique and delightful eateries in the city is just a glimpse of what Reno has to offer.

This Reno restaurant guide is your gateway to discovering the flavors and stories behind each establishment. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the experience, the history, and the community that each restaurant brings to the table.