Balla Italian Soul inside SAHARA Las Vegas was named “Best New Italian” restaurant in Las Vegas Weekly’s 2023 Best of Vegas Reader’s Choice awards.
The restaurant, the latest Las Vegas offering from James Beard Award-winning Chef Shawn McClain, opened inside SAHARA Las Vegas in October 2022, earning the fan-favorite distinction in less than one year.
Balla specializes in handmade pastas and Roman pizzas, as well as fire-roasted meats and fish. Other popular dishes include homemade focaccia bread and steamed mussels. The restaurant features an extensive, Euro-centric wine list and a cocktail program with several different Negronis and liqueur-infused espressos.
Locals also love Balla’s midweek promotions; Las Vegas residents and restaurant-industry friends receive 50% off all steaks on Tuesdays and 50% off bottles of wine on Wednesdays. Locals and industry professionals can also receive a VIP Local Card which provides access to premier experiences and offers for future visits. Perks include personal tableside visits from the manager as well as access to wines with special pricing, featured menu items not available to the general public and upcoming seasonal items.
“We work hard to deliver world-class Italian cuisine and top-notch service every night, so to be recognized for these efforts is quite wonderful,” said David Grates, general manager, Balla Italian Soul. “We’re honored to hear Balla has established itself as a locals’ favorite so quickly.”
The Best of Vegas awards were announced at Las Vegas Weekly’s Best of Vegas 2023 celebration on August 10. The event was hosted by Greenspun Media Group and held at Zouk Nightclub inside Resorts World Las Vegas.
The awards, which highlight fan-favorite Las Vegas businesses across five main categories, also appeared in the August 10 issue of the publication.
Balla Italian Soul is open nightly for dinner service from 5 to 10 p.m.
