Building on the foundation of his Santa Monica pop-up, Chef Ricardo created Once Las Vegas as a one-of-a-kind Peruvian Nikkei dining experience. Drawing distinct flavors from both Peru and Japan, along with the comforting dishes of Chef Ricardo Zarate’s childhood, the menu includes dishes such as Big Eye Tuna Sashimi Ceviche, with black truffle and kizami tigers milk; Arroz Chaufa, Peruvian fried rice, snow crab, yuzu aioli and crispy calamari; and Ox Tail Bibimbap, with black mint stew, tacu tacu rice, fried egg and plantains. To compliment the menu, there are 11 signature cocktails, including a Rum & Cola “slushee” machine for an irreverent, Vegas-style twist on a boozy classic.
Located on the second level of the Grand Canal Shoppes, the design invites guests to leave the bright lights of the strip behind and unwind within Once’s simple yet rustic dining room. The interior design is a nod to native Peru, with floor-to-ceiling living plant walls complemented by dim Edison lighting throughout. It is designed to celebrate family and friends and is surrounded by lush greenery, evoking an outdoorsy, rural vibe. Once is open for dinner daily and for lunch Friday - Sunday.