Date Night at La Strega: An Italian Affair in Summerlin

Set in the heart of Summerlin, La Strega (Italian for “The Witch”) enchants with a warm, modern atmosphere and a menu crafted with soul and story.

Led by Executive Chef and Partner Gina Marinelli, this Italian trattoria is a favorite among locals for its authentic ingredients, thoughtful technique, and vibrant presentation.

Chef Gina’s culinary magic draws deeply from her training, travels across Italy, and time in the kitchens of some of Las Vegas’ most acclaimed restaurants.

The Vibe: Warm, Stylish, and Split Just Right

The space itself is divided into two unique areas: one lively and energetic near the open kitchen and bar, the other more intimate, tucked away for quieter dining.

From sleek lighting to cozy seating, every corner whispers romance and modern Italian charm.

We arrived on a Tuesday night and found the restaurant comfortably bustling—a promising sign.

If you’re looking for a quiet dinner, ask the host to seat you on the far side of the restaurant. By the time our main course arrived, the space had filled up completely. It was wonderful to see such energy—but for a more private conversation, distance from the kitchen helps.

First Impressions: The Perfect Start

We kicked things off with the Tomato and Oregano Focaccia, a house bread that smelled like it was plucked straight from a Tuscan oven.

We added the Whipped Mascarpone Butter—and we highly recommend you do too.

It set the tone for what was a memorable meal.

Appetizers That Cast a Spell

Our starters were stunning. The La Strega Insalata featured an apple cider vinaigrette paired beautifully with smoky bleu cheese, sweet figs, and candied walnuts.

But the standout was the Grilled Spanish Octopus, tender and charred to perfection with an unmistakably fresh Mediterranean bite.

Main Course Magic

We couldn’t resist two of the most talked-about pasta dishes on the menu.

First, the Rigatoni Bolognese—rich with wild boar, ‘njuda (a spicy, spreadable pork salumi), and nutty Grana Padano.

Every bite felt like a slow-simmered Sunday sauce elevated to fine dining levels.

The Spicy Troffie Alla Vodka was a revelation.

Creamy vodka sauce coated the handmade pasta just right, with whipped ricotta adding a soft, dreamy texture and the basil and chives punching through with garden-fresh flair.

Chef Gina’s Italian Vision

Chef Gina Marinelli is no stranger to culinary excellence.

After graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in Orlando, she honed her craft under icons like Michael Mina and James Beard Award-winner Scott Conant.

Her travels through Bologna, Sicily, and the Amalfi Coast gave her the foundation for La Strega’s soul—regionally inspired, ingredient-driven, and full of heart.

Each dish echoes the coastal charm and rustic warmth of Italy’s kitchens, with a modern Las Vegas twist.

Escape To Italy Without Leaving Home

If you’re planning a date night—or any night—you’ll want to consider the atmosphere you’re in the mood for.

Want to feel the energy of the kitchen? Sit near the bar. Looking to chat over wine and pasta without raising your voice? Request the quieter dining section when you reserve.

Either way, you’re in for something special.

La Strega isn’t just another Italian restaurant in Las Vegas.

It’s a culinary journey woven from personal experience, regional storytelling, and dishes that dance between old-world charm and new-world creativity.

Whether you’re there for the octopus, the bolognese, or the ambience, Chef Gina’s spell will leave you enchanted.