Ohlala French Bistro: A Summerlin Brunch Worth the Long Wait

It’s funny how many great places surround us in Las Vegas, and yet somehow, some of them slip through the cracks for years. Ohlala French Bistro is one of those places—the kind that keeps popping up in searches, always nearby, always bookmarked for “someday.”

This past Saturday morning, we finally decided to change that. On a day dedicated to exploring and eating our way through the neighborhood, we walked into Ohlala French Bistro—less than a mile from where we started—and almost immediately felt that familiar mix of excitement and regret. Excitement for discovering something special, and regret for not doing it sooner.

Located in Summerlin at the corner of Rampart and Lake Mead, Ohlala sits comfortably among other local favorites—just around the corner from Nittaya’s Secret Kitchen and across the street from Omelet House. It’s a small, modern French bistro that feels refined yet approachable the moment you step inside.

Bar seating area inside Ohlala French Bistro in Summerlin — The intimate bar seating at Ohlala offers a front-row seat to the bistro’s cozy, neighborhood charm.

A warm welcome and an intimate setting

As we walked in, we were greeted with a wide smile from the owner, Chef Richard Terzaghi, along with the host. The room felt instantly cheerful.

A small holiday gathering was taking place, adding to the warmth and lived-in feel of the space.

Interior dining room of Ohlala French Bistro in Summerlin — Inside, Ohlala blends Parisian bistro vibes with a cozy, neighborhood feel.

Ohlala is intentionally intimate. There are tables and a small bar seating area, but this isn’t a large dining room built for volume.

If you’re coming with more than two people, making a reservation is highly recommended. The limited seating is part of what gives the restaurant its charm.

The bread test

We started simply—with coffee and house bread. That first bite of bread and butter quietly set expectations for everything that followed.

Warm, comforting, and balanced, it was the kind of opening note that lets you know a kitchen cares about the details.

House bread served with butter at Ohlala French Bistro — Simple and telling—the house bread and butter sets the tone for the care and quality that follows.

When a place gets the basics right, the rest usually follows.

Brunch at Ohlala French Bistro

We arrived during brunch service and decided to order a few dishes to share—a strategy that turned out to be the right move.

What followed was a beautifully paced brunch that showcased classic French flavors and thoughtful technique.

Brunch menu at Ohlala French Bistro in Summerlin — Ohlala’s brunch menu showcases classic French dishes made with simple, quality ingredients.

Standout dishes

French Onion Soup

The French onion soup delivered depth and comfort in equal measure. Rich, layered, and patiently built, it was the kind of bowl that invites you to slow down and enjoy each spoonful.

Warm Crusted Pistachio

This dish was a clear standout. Creamy goat cheese topped with a pistachio crust, onion confit jam, and honey, served alongside crostini—it hit every note. Sweet, savory, nutty, and indulgent without being heavy, it was simply outstanding.

Warm pistachio-crusted goat cheese with honey and onion confit at Ohlala French Bistro — The warm pistachio-crusted goat cheese is a standout starter, balancing sweet, savory, and nutty flavors.

Chèvre Chaud Salad

The chèvre chaud salad brought balance to the table. Peppery arugula, baked goat cheese, and onions came together in a dish that felt light yet satisfying, proving that simplicity can still feel special.

Le Croque Monsieur

Brioche layered with béchamel, ham, and gruyère, the croque monsieur was comfort food done right. Rich without being overwhelming, it reminded us why this classic has endured for generations.

Flavors that feel intentional

Each dish could easily stand on its own. While we don’t usually rank meals, these flavors aren’t ones you come across every day—even at higher-end restaurants. This is food built on quality ingredients and confident execution.

Nothing felt forced or overworked. Just thoughtful cooking, rooted in tradition, and delivered with care.

The story behind the bistro

Ohlala French Bistro was created by Richard Terzaghi, a French national with decades of experience in the restaurant industry across France, California, and Las Vegas.

After years of success in the industry, Richard opened Ohlala to bring classic French dishes to the valley using simple, fresh ingredients in a traditional yet welcoming setting.

Couple enjoying brunch together at Ohlala French Bistro in Summerlin — Brunch at Ohlala feels relaxed and unhurried—perfect for lingering over great food and good company.

The décor strikes a balance between a Parisian bistro and a cozy neighborhood restaurant, making it equally fitting for a relaxed brunch, a quiet date, or a casual gathering with friends.

Why we’ll be back

The staff was genuinely warm, the atmosphere relaxed, and the food exceptional. That combination is hard to come by.

Exterior view of Ohlala French Bistro located in Summerlin Las Vegas — Tucked along Rampart and Lake Mead, Ohlala French Bistro is easy to miss—but worth finding.

This was our first visit to Ohlala French Bistro, but it won’t be our last. We left with a goal to work our way through the entire menu—a promise we fully intend to keep.

If you’ve been meaning to try Ohlala and keep putting it off, take this as your sign. Make the reservation, slow down, and enjoy the experience.

We waited years to walk through the door—and now we’re already planning our return.