The dining room is a mix of the divine and modish—candlelight casting shadows in the dimly lit room, Mediterranean- and Southern Italian-inspired décor, dark woods and modern hanging chandeliers. Part lounge, part restaurant and part expansive patio overlooking the Las Vegas Strip, Italian restaurant Lavo is a chic spot for date night or an upscale meal with friends.

To start off any meal, it’s wise to order the restaurant’s star appetizer dish, “The Meatball.” This gigantic sphere is made with 16 ounces of fresh-ground Imperial wagyu, Italian sausage and veal, and is served with fresh-whipped ricotta. Also, not-to-be-missed appetizers include the popular charred octopus, crispy fried calamari and a creamy, spicy lobster bisque.