The area adjacent to UNLV offers knowledgeable eaters a university of culinary diversity
Pho Thanh Huong
Would banh mi by any other name be as beautiful? Street Foodie thinks not. This no-frills Vietnamese spot provides beautiful flavors at a wonderful price. The grilled-pork banh mi is a smoky-sweet thing with a spicy kick — cool it down with an avocado boba and you’ll be mighty fine. 1131 E. Tropicana Ave., phothanhhuonglv.com
Nigerian Cuisine
Nigerian Cuisine has been serving deliciously spiced sub-Saharan food to those in the know for some three years, but it was a new experience for this chronic masticator. Tried the jolof rice. The beef was perfectly spiced — think curry-like flavors but with a slightly sour hit — and the rice and plantains were lovely. Street Foodie is excited to find a new culinary world to explore. You should be, too. 5006 S. Maryland Parkway #11, 702-798-0303
Felipitos
Street Foodie visits this grande dame of greasy taco stands for one thing and one thing only, the chile relleno burrito — a wondrous mixture of lettuce, cheese, fried chile, and guac. (No beans or rice; this is so crucial to the flavor it cannot be overstated.) 1325 E. Tropicana Ave., 702-739-8585
India Cafe
Ohhh, boy, is this place good! A newcomer to the University District, it combines traditional and contemporary dishes under the Indian flavor profile. There’s much to recommend here, but start with the curry of the day, always a classic set of layered flavors combining the old and the new. Or the Hara Bara burger, which brings many of this culture’s beautiful flavors into a new and exciting expression. 1435 E. Tropicana Ave., 702-786-0171
Aloha Kitchen
Some things never change — thankfully. The quality of the food and the affordable prices at Aloha Kitchen fall into that category. Don’t doubt Street Foodie on this: Try the Local Plate, a mix of seared chicken and grilled beef smothered in teriyaki sauce, with two spam musubi on the side. 4745 Maryland Parkway, 702-895-9444
Stephanos
Long-timers remember when this place had a big sign reading “Your daily chicken.” Even then, Street Foodie loved the delicate Mediterranean flavors — especially the bright pink pickled turnips smashed into a pita loaded with lamb shawarma, which you can still get today. So much good Greekness! 4632 S. Maryland Parkway #14, stephanoslv.com