I’ve visited AREA15, a unique entertainment complex located just west of the Las Vegas Strip, many times before to explore Asylum Bar + Arcade, Museum Fiasco, Illuminarium, Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, and Todd English’s The Beast restaurant, so I was excited when I was invited to return for a hosted dinner at Kaia Las Vegas, AREA15’s relatively new Asian eclectic eatery.
Upon arrival, I was immediately captivated by its unique and vibrant decor. The intimate atmosphere, adorned with Asian-inspired designs, earthy wood fixtures, charming golden rabbits, and a collection of vinyl collectibles, was indeed a sight to behold.
Chef Yoshi Tuaolo, who created an incredible menu of Asian specialties for Kaia Las Vegas, is a seasoned professional who honed his skills in various renowned restaurants in Las Vegas, including Fuhu, Wakuda, and Katsuya.
From the Omega Poke ($16), a Hawaiian-style poke with red onion, avocado, and tomatoes, to the Chili Crunch Shrimp Wonton ($13), fresh shrimp wrapped in wonton skin, topped with thinly sliced cucumbers, chili garlic, and peanut dressing, there’s something to excite every palate.
I’m not a fan of dumplings, but if you’re into them, Kaia Las Vegas has steamed and pan-fried options, such as the Pork Soup Dumplings, Pork Shu Mai, Shrimp Shu Mai, BBQ Pork Steamed Buns, and Vegetable Pot Stickers (prices range between $11 and $13).
I love noodles, so I ordered the Oddwood Noodle ($18), and I’m so glad I did. This was one of my favorite dishes as the lo mein noodles are topped with braised short rib, choy sum, and specialty garlic ginger soy sauce. Other noodle options include the Tonkotsu Spicy Pork Ramen and Shrimp Wonton Miso Ramen (both $17).
A trip here isn’t complete without a few specialty rolls. My pick was The Neighborhood Beast ($15), which is perfect for sharing. These flavorful spicy tuna and avocado sushi rolls are topped with seared tuna and house yuzu aioli. The Spine ($15), which has snow crab and asparagus, is another option.
Other menu favorites include the Kaia Signature Handroll ($18), which features snow crab legs baked in honey aioli, wrapped in sesame soy paper, and topped with big-eye tuna and Kaluga caviar. The Salmon Does Not Exist ($15) is another popular item with beet-cured salmon, spring mix salad, and a yuzu kosho sauce.
If you want dessert, there are two delightful options. Choose from strawberry, mango, and green tea-flavored Mochi ($4) or the creamy Ube Hachi Custard ($10), served in a signature croissant bowl and topped with fresh berries.
To round out my dining experience, I ordered the Murasaki Colada ($19), a specialty cocktail made with Bacardí Superior rum, ube milk, coconut syrup, pineapple, and lemon juice, and the Year of the Dragon ($19), an excellent combination of Haku vodka, triple sec, lime juice, hibiscus cranberry juice, and edible glitter. Kaia Las Vegas also offers a selection of sake, beers, and non-alcoholic options, such as Mokuteru mocktails and hot green tea.
With its hip vibe, incredible menu, and outstanding service, Kaia Las Vegas is the perfect dining destination for lunch or dinner before exploring everything that AREA15 offers. The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Barstool seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Visit the AREA15 website to see the full menu or to make a reservation. Kaia Las Vegas is one of the many venues participating in AREA15’s Bytes & Beyond Food Pass promotion, offering a diverse and exciting culinary experience.
If you loved reading about my visit to Kaia Las Vegas, check out my dining review of Hakkasan Las Vegas.
