A Local Mexican Gem in the Heart of Las Vegas

On Main Street, between Charleston Blvd and Fremont St, is one of those Las Vegas treasures that brings the warmth and tradition of Mexican cuisine right to the heart of downtown.

While it may be easy to miss during your regular drives around the area, Letty’s de Leticia’s Cocina stands out not only for its authentic dishes but also for its deep connection to Las Vegas history and Mexican culture.

Despite its unassuming size, this small restaurant has become a beloved spot for locals seeking a true taste of Mexico.

A Historical Setting: From El Sombrero to Letty’s

Before Letty’s de Leticia’s Cocina opened its doors in August 2020, the building held its own place in Las Vegas history.

In fact, the space was originally home to the city’s first Mexican cantina, El Sombrero, dating back to the 1930s.

El Sombrero was a pioneer, introducing Las Vegas residents to Mexican flavors long before the city grew into the culinary destination it is today.

It’s fitting, then, that Letty’s occupies this historic space, carrying forward the tradition of Mexican cuisine in the heart of Sin City.

This sense of history and heritage permeates the restaurant, not only in the food but also in the atmosphere.

The restaurant’s interior and exterior are adorned with colorful murals, all inspired by Mexican heritage and traditions.

The murals create a vibrant, inviting ambiance that mirrors the lively, diverse flavors on the menu.

The Vision Behind Letty’s: Leticia Mitchell’s Journey

Letty’s de Leticia’s Cocina is the brainchild of Leticia Mitchell, a celebrated Las Vegas chef and restaurateur.

She envisioned a restaurant offering genuine, home-style Mexican dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, staying true to the traditional recipes passed down through generations.

Her vision has resonated with both locals and visitors, and her cooking has been featured on national television shows and magazines, including the famous Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.

Leticia opened Letty’s in August 2020, a time when many restaurants were struggling.

Her passion for her craft allowed her to create a warm and welcoming space.

Despite the challenges, she was able to tap into the rich cultural heritage of Mexican food, bringing it to life in a way that celebrates both her roots and the vibrant Las Vegas community.

A Cozy, Intimate Dining Experience

Stepping into Letty’s Cocina feels like walking into a cozy Mexican home.

The restaurant’s small size creates an intimate, warm environment where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a meal that feels like it was made with love.

The small, cozy space means you often dine among locals, sharing appreciation for Leticia’s expertly crafted dishes.

Although the restaurant can be easy to miss if you’re not paying attention, especially when passing through this quieter part of Main Street, the story changes entirely during rush hour.

The line of people waiting to get inside speaks to the restaurant’s popularity, proving that Letty’s has cemented its place as a local favorite.

Patrons are often willing to wait for a table, even during the scorching Las Vegas summers, to enjoy the mouthwatering dishes that await them inside.

The Famous Beef Birria: A Must-Try Dish

One of Letty’s most iconic dishes is the Beef Birria, a slow-cooked beef stew full of rich, bold flavors.

Known for being tender and flavorful, beef birria is a staple at Letty’s. It is served with a selection of traditional Mexican salsas.

The beef is marinated in a blend of spices, giving it a deep, earthy flavor. It is then cooked to perfection until it is fall-apart tender.

The birria broth, seasoned with traditional Mexican herbs and spices, adds an extra layer of flavor, making each bite an explosion of savory goodness.

This dish has gained a loyal following among regulars, and it’s no wonder why—it’s the kind of meal that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite.

Whether you’re a local Las Vegan or just passing through the city, trying Letty’s Beef Birria is an absolute must.

A Menu Filled with Authentic Flavors

While the Birria may be a standout, Letty’s menu features other authentic Mexican dishes that showcase the diversity of Mexican cuisine.

From tacos to enchiladas, every dish at Letty’s is made with fresh ingredients, which enhances the flavors and brings out the true essence of traditional Mexican cooking.

Letty’s Carlito Fries, for example, is a simple yet flavorful representation of Mexican street food.

It features seasoned fries, chorizo, refried beans, Oaxaca cheese, and eggs, offering layers of flavor and texture topped with tangy sauces that pack a punch.

Leticia’s dedication to using fresh ingredients means every dish bursts with vibrant, authentic flavors that transport you straight to Mexico.

Beyond the main dishes, Letty’s also offers a range of side dishes, from Empanditas to Cebolla Chiles. These complement the entrees and add extra flavor to the meal.

Pair your meal with one of Letty’s refreshing aguas frescas for the perfect Mexican dining experience.

Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives: National Spotlight

Letty’s Cocina gained national recognition when it was featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, the wildly popular Food Network show hosted by Guy Fieri.

The episode showcased Leticia’s commitment to authentic Mexican cooking, highlighting dishes like the Beef Birria and other traditional meals that have become fan favorites.

The feature on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives brought a wave of new customers to Letty’s, including the author of this article. Many of them were eager to experience the food they had seen on television.

Yet, even with this national spotlight, Letty’s has retained its local charm, and the restaurant continues to be a go-to spot for those seeking real, home-cooked Mexican meals in Las Vegas.

A Local Gem in the Heart of Las Vegas

Despite its many accolades and features in national magazines and television shows, Letty’s de Leticia’s Cocina remains a true local gem.

Tucked away in a less-traveled part of Main Street, this restaurant embodies the essence of Las Vegas—unpretentious, diverse, and flavor-filled.

It’s a place where you can escape the bustle of the Las Vegas Strip and enjoy a meal that transports you to the heart of Mexico.

Letty’s small size only adds to its charm. The intimate space, combined with Leticia’s commitment to authentic, delicious Mexican cooking, makes this restaurant a must-visit for anyone looking to experience genuine Mexican cuisine in the city.

Whether you’re a regular patron or a first-time visitor, Letty’s de Leticia’s Cocina offers a dining experience that is warm, welcoming, and undeniably flavorful.

The Flavor of Mexico, the Heart of Las Vegas

Letty’s de Leticia’s Cocina is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary experience that combines Mexico’s history, culture, and flavors in a cozy, welcoming environment.

From the building roots as the first Mexican cantina in Las Vegas to its current incarnation as one of the city’s best-kept secrets, Letty’s continues to serve up mouthwatering, authentic Mexican dishes that keep customers coming back for more.

With its vibrant murals, delicious food, and rich history, Letty’s de Leticia’s Cocina is a true local gem that embodies the spirit of Las Vegas.

Whether you’re stopping in for a quick taco or indulging in the famous Beef Birria, every meal at Letty’s is a celebration of Mexican culture and cuisine, made with love by one of the city’s most talented chefs.