Published on: January 2, 2025, 06:50h.

Last updated on: January 2, 2025, 07:01h.

Continuing his journey into retirement, chef Julian Serrano will close his final Las Vegas Strip restaurant, Julian Serrano Tapas, at Aria on February 1. This closure comes six months after his iconic Picasso restaurant at Bellagio ended its 26-year run. Julian Serrano Tapas, open for 15 years, will serve its last meal.

Serrano’s eatery, opened in 2009, was known for its Spanish dishes like paella and anchovy fillets.

There is no information on the new restaurants set to replace them, but they are expected to be high-end dining establishments.

Julian Serrano, aged 74, announced his retirement in May and stepped back from his involvement at Lago in Bellagio as well, though that restaurant is still operational.

“The culinary legacy and impact Chef Serrano has had on Aria for the past 15 years showcases his talent and dedication,” Ayesha Molino, Aria’s President and COO, stated. “He consistently led the restaurant and team with professionalism, offering mentorship and pushing for world-class hospitality for our guests.

“His contributions are invaluable, and we wish him and his family happiness and success in the future.”

Wok of Fame

Las Vegas had six winners on Yelp’s inaugural list of “Top 100 Chinese Restaurants in America,” second only to New York’s 9 winners. The city has around 200 Chinese restaurants compared to New York’s 3,000.

China Mama was ranked 8th nationally and recently opened its fifth location at Palace Station. Following closely is Shàng Artisan Noodle at 15, Magic Noodle at 19, Yun Noodle & Dumplings at 25, Big Dan Shanxi Taste at 61, and Noodlehead at 67. The top spot went to Maxi’s Noodle in Queens, NY.

These restaurants had to meet certain criteria to make the list, including not being a national chain and having a good health score.

Dining Ins & Outs

Holsteins Shakes & Buns closed at the Cosmopolitan in July 2024 after 15 years but will reopen in downtown’s Arts District this spring. Follow @HolsteinsLV on social media for updates.

Approval has been sought from Clark County for a new eatery named Sinfull Sweets at T-Mobile Arena, as reported by What Now Vegas. Details about the concept are still unknown.

International Smoke at MGM Grand will shut down on January 19. The restaurant, opened by Ayesha Curry and chef Michael Mina in 2019, will not be operational past that date.