The Zenlike décor of Nobu at the Hard Rock Hotel, with bamboo-lined walls and seaweed-toned banquettes, brings a serene sense of peace to the otherwise frenetic pace of Las Vegas. This is a beautiful place to settle in for an evening. As at its sister restaurant in New York City’s TriBeCa, the quality of the sushi here is fantastic. Whether eaten as sashimi or sushi or tucked into fat, flavor-packed maki (rolls), the silky fish virtually melts in your mouth. Folks who shiver at the word sushi need not miss out on celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s magnificent culinary talent (although you should at least try Nobu’s sushi before swearing off of it based on fear alone). In addition to raw fish, the menu includes soup, kushiyaki (skewers of fish, chicken, vegetables, or beef), ceviches, salads, noodle bowls, teriyaki plates, and tempura, as well as a selection of hot entrées. An omakase (chef’s choice) menu is also available for truly inspired (and adventurous) dining.

Nobu Information:

• Japanese menu. Dinner. Bar. Jacket required. Reservations recommended. Valet parking.