Stanton Social Italian Brings High-Energy Italian Dining to the Las Vegas Strip
Bold flavors, theatrical tableside moments, and a distinctly social atmosphere define Stanton Social Italian, the latest evolution of Chef Chris Santos’ celebrated dining concept at Caesars Palace. Developed in partnership with Tao Group Hospitality and Caesars Palace, the restaurant reimagines Stanton Social’s signature communal style through a modern Italian lens, creating a dining experience that feels both familiar and surprising in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip.
From its first moments, Stanton Social Italian signals that this is not a traditional red-sauce Italian restaurant. Instead, it is a high-energy destination where dishes are meant to be shared, conversations flow easily, and presentation is part of the experience.
A Modern Italian Identity Rooted in New York
The original Stanton Social debuted on New York City’s Lower East Side in 2004, earning a reputation for globally inspired, shareable plates. That DNA remains intact, but the new Italian-focused concept draws inspiration from generations of Italian-American cooking across New York’s neighborhoods.
Chef Chris Santos explains that the goal was to strike a careful balance between comfort and innovation. “We focus on recognizable Italian dishes and elevate them with modern techniques and bold flavor profiles,” says Santos. “The menu is designed for sharing, so each item is approachable but has a twist that makes it memorable. Guests get the comfort of classic Italian with the energy of a social, multi-dish experience.”
While Italian tradition anchors the menu, subtle global influences still appear. “We carried over the spirit of layered flavors and unexpected combinations,” Santos notes. “Some dishes use spices, textures, or sauces inspired by the original menu, but they are reworked through an Italian lens. The goal is to keep the sense of discovery while staying rooted in Italian tradition.”
Shareable Plates With Big Personality
The menu at Stanton Social Italian is intentionally built for the center of the table. Starters like fritto misto combine crispy seafood and vegetables with vibrant sauces, while lighter options such as heirloom tomato salad with whipped burrata offer a bright counterpoint.
House-made pastas bring depth and richness, particularly the cavatelli wagyu bolognese, which channels the heartiness of Italian-American cooking while refining it for a contemporary audience. “We draw from the simplicity and heartiness of New York Italian roots,” says Santos. “The focus is on quality ingredients, straightforward technique, and dishes meant for sharing. These offerings pay respect to that history while refining it for a modern audience.”
Tableside Experiences That Bring the Room Together
A defining element of Stanton Social Italian is its use of tableside presentations, which turn dinner into a shared event. The extra crispy chicken parmigiana and the dramatic super tomahawk arrive with visual flair, finished in front of guests.
“Tableside dishes create a moment that brings the table together,” Santos explains. “They spark conversation, add energy to the room, and reinforce the social nature of the restaurant. These presentations also highlight craftsmanship and allow guests to interact with the food more engagingly.”
These moments are especially well-suited to the restaurant’s Caesars Palace setting, where spectacle and storytelling are part of the Strip’s dining culture.
Desserts That Match the Energy
Dessert continues the playful approach with reimagined Italian classics like limoncello tiramisu and a spumoni-inspired milkshake layered with pistachio mousse, cherry compote, and chocolate elements. According to Santos, these finales are designed to be as memorable as the main event.
“We wanted desserts that feel fun, nostalgic, and modern at the same time,” he says. “Each one puts a playful spin on familiar Italian flavors. They are designed to match the restaurant’s upbeat feel and end the meal with something that stands out.”
A Fresh Addition to Caesars Palace Dining
For Caesars Palace and Tao Group Hospitality, Stanton Social Italian represents a natural evolution of a successful partnership. “This concept brings a fresh take on Italian that matches the scale and excitement of the Strip while staying chef-driven,” Santos says. “It strengthens our partnership by delivering something distinctive that blends high energy with polished cuisine. It fills a gap for guests who want both elevated Italian and a lively atmosphere.”
That balance is intentional, especially for a cuisine often associated with more formal dining. “We designed the menu and pacing around movement,” Santos adds. “Smaller plates, shareable portions, and dynamic service keep the table active. Music, lighting, and tableside moments add energy so the experience feels lively rather than formal, even with classic Italian dishes.”
For visitors and locals alike, Stanton Social Italian delivers a dining experience that feels unmistakably Italian, undeniably social, and perfectly in tune with the rhythm of the Strip.
