Oscar's Steakhouse

Oscar's sits in the glass dome of the Plaza Hotel downtown, which is already cool as hell, and it's named after former Vegas mayor Oscar Goodman, who's exactly the kind of larger-than-life character you'd expect from old-school Vegas. This is classic steakhouse territory—red leather, martinis, the whole Rat Pack aesthetic—and the happy hour gives you a chance to experience it without dropping $200 on a ribeye.

The Happy Hour Lowdown

Happy hour available—specific times and deals vary, but expect the standard steakhouse happy hour playbook: discounted cocktails at the bar, maybe some appetizer specials, typically late afternoon/early evening. Call ahead or check current specials, because steakhouse happy hours tend to be more "bar menu available" than "everything's half off." The bar is the move here, not the dining room.

Why You're Actually Here

The dome. The history. The old Vegas energy that feels increasingly rare. Oscar's has legitimate pedigree—it's been around since the '50s in various forms, and the current location in that restored dome is genuinely cool. The bar serves proper martinis, the kind where they leave the shaker tableside. Happy hour pricing makes the classic cocktails accessible, and you get to feel like you're in a Scorsese film for an hour.

The Vibe Check

Old Vegas steakhouse through and through. Dark wood, red leather booths, white tablecloths, tuxedoed waiters. It's formal without being stuffy—you can do business casual at the bar. The crowd skews older, locals who remember when downtown was THE Strip, and tourists who appreciate classic Vegas. Mayor Goodman himself used to hold court here regularly. It's quieter and more conversation-friendly than Fremont Street chaos three blocks away.

Real Talk

You're in the Plaza, which is old downtown, not Fremont East or the main tourist drag. It's a quick walk to Fremont Street Experience but feels worlds apart. The full dinner menu is pricey (it's a steakhouse), so happy hour is your access point unless you're expensing it. Service is old-school professional—attentive, knowledgeable, no rushing you out.

Pro Tips

Sit at the bar for happy hour—that's where the deals are and where you'll actually meet people. Ask about the martini specials; they know what they're doing. If you're doing dinner, happy hour cocktails first is the move. The dome location is unique to Vegas—get a window seat if possible. Pair this with Fremont Street bar hopping for a full downtown experience.