Best Restaurants in Reno
According to locals on Reddit — not Yelp stars, not Google reviews, not influencers.
We analyzed 85 Reddit threads on r/Reno where locals recommend restaurants. This isn't a list curated by food critics or sponsored by restaurants — it's the raw consensus from people who live here and eat here every day. These are the places that get name-dropped over and over when someone asks 'where should I eat in Reno?'
What Locals Are Saying
Kwok's is the single most recommended restaurant in Reno — it wins nearly every 'best restaurant' thread by a landslide. Reno's food scene is 'surprisingly excellent' according to locals, with particular strengths in Indian food, AYCE sushi, and pizza. The biggest consensus: skip the casino restaurants and go to independent local spots. The food scene has improved dramatically in recent years.
Most Recommended
🏆Kwok's
ChineseThe #1 most recommended restaurant on r/Reno by a mile. A Chinese restaurant where regulars say 'just let them keep bringing food.' The owner personally curates the experience. It's the definition of a locals' spot.
“Kwok's isn't just the best Chinese food in Reno — it's one of the best restaurants, period. Trust the owner and let him order for you.”
— r/Reno userLiberty Food & Wine Exchange
Upscale AmericanHoused in the old downtown post office. Outstanding upscale American cuisine with an exceptional wine program. The go-to for special occasions and impressing visitors.
“Liberty is where I take anyone I want to impress. The food, the wine, the building — it's all perfect.”
— r/Reno user7 Spices
IndianReno's best Indian restaurant according to an overwhelming consensus. Consistently praised for authentic flavors, generous portions, and excellent service. Multiple threads note Reno's Indian food scene is surprisingly strong.
“7 Spices is as good as any Indian restaurant I've had in the Bay Area. And I'm saying that as someone from the Bay Area.”
— r/Reno userR-Town Pizza
Detroit-Style PizzaFeatured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives — but locals loved it before that. Detroit-style pizza with crispy edges and generous toppings. The owner is beloved by the community.
“R-Town was the best pizza in Reno before Triple D, and it's still the best after. The owner is a genuinely great human.”
— r/Reno userLa Strada
ItalianThe consensus pick for date-night Italian in Reno. Classic dishes done exceptionally well in an intimate atmosphere. Locals have been coming here for years.
“La Strada is where Reno goes on date night. It's classic Italian that never disappoints.”
— r/Reno userHidden Gems
Bab Cafe
KoreanSmall Korean spot that keeps a low profile but has incredibly loyal regulars. Authentic flavors, generous portions, and some of the best bibimbap in the state.
“Bab Cafe is my Korean food fix. Feels like eating at someone's house — in the best way.”
Bangkok Cuisine
ThaiUnassuming exterior, incredible food. Multiple locals describe it as the 'best Thai food they've had outside of Thailand.' The curries are legendary.
Pasta Fresca
Italian (Casual)Off Lakeside Drive, owned by actual Italians. Fresh pasta made daily. Less well-known than La Strada but equally loved by those who find it.
“Pasta Fresca is run by real Italians making real fresh pasta. It's the most authentic Italian in Reno and nobody talks about it.”
Pho 777
VietnameseThe go-to for pho in Reno. Nothing fancy — just a consistently excellent bowl of pho that locals have been ordering for years.
What to Watch Out For
- •Casino restaurants are mostly overpriced and mediocre — locals say skip them (except Bistro Napa's happy hour).
- •Yelp and Google reviews can be unreliable for Reno — some tourist traps have high ratings while the best local spots are underrated.
- •Parking downtown can be frustrating during dinner hours.
- •Some of the best spots don't take reservations (Kwok's, Stonehouse) — be prepared to wait.
- •The restaurant scene is concentrated in Midtown and downtown — options thin out in the suburbs.
Frequently Asked
What is the best restaurant in Reno according to locals?
Kwok's (Chinese) is the overwhelming #1 pick on Reddit's r/Reno. Liberty Food & Wine Exchange (upscale American) and 7 Spices (Indian) round out the top 3. These three come up in virtually every 'best restaurant' thread.
Is the food scene in Reno actually good?
Yes — locals are emphatic about this. Reno's food scene has improved dramatically and is 'surprisingly excellent.' Particular strengths: Indian food, AYCE sushi, pizza, and a growing upscale scene. Many transplants from the Bay Area say they're impressed.
Should I eat at casino restaurants in Reno?
Generally no, according to locals. Casino restaurants are typically overpriced for mediocre food. The one exception frequently mentioned is Bistro Napa's half-off happy hour (4-6pm), which locals call 'legendary.' For real food, go to Midtown or downtown independent restaurants.
Where should I eat in Midtown Reno?
Midtown's best spots according to locals: South Creek Pizza, Sup (ramen), Campo (Italian), Two Chicks (brunch), Great Full Gardens (healthy), and any of the Midtown coffee shops. The area is walkable — park once and explore.
Planning your day? See the full "What to Do in Reno Today" guide — coffee, food, outdoors & nightlife, all in one page.
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