It used to be you could only find celebrity chef Mario Batali’s restaurants in New York City, but he has expanded to Las Vegas with a few new ventures. B&B Ristorante (the other “B” stands for his partner, winemaker Joe Bastianich) is a small space where you might bump elbows with your neighbors, but the coziness adds to the jovial atmosphere. Batali’s menu at this spot is simple, rustic Italian with a gourmet edge. The salumi are a must-try—all are made fresh in house by executive chef Zach Allen or cured in house with the exception of the prosciutto di San Danielle which is imported from Italy. More adventurous options include a light and airy lambs’ brain francobolli (the restaurant is said to sell more of this dish in Las Vegas than they do in New York). A pasta tasting menu is available for those who can’t decide which dish to order. The wine list, featuring some Bastianich private label bottles, is extensive, especially as far as—you guessed it—Italian wines go.

B&B Ristorante at The Venetian Information:

• Italian menu. Dinner.