Las Vegas Buffets Decline as Food Halls Rise, Rick Harrison Champions Barbecue
For decades, Las Vegas buffets were a tourist staple, but now food halls are gaining popularity. A 12% drop in tourism in July 2024 has contributed to this change, with many iconic buffet venues closing and transforming into trendy food halls. Rick Harrison, the owner of ‘Pawn Stars’ and operator of Rick’s Rollin Smoke Barbeque & Tavern, has observed this transition, calling the decline of buffets an example of ‘Darwinism.’ He highlighted how even once-affordable foods like lobster have become luxury items, illustrating the ever-evolving nature of culinary preferences.
Despite this shift, Harrison’s restaurant continues to focus on classic American barbecue, which he takes pride in preparing with traditional methods, including a 16-hour smoking process. Harrison’s perspective offers insight into the broader changes affecting Las Vegas’ hospitality and food industry, as the city adapts to shifting consumer tastes and economic conditions.