Nestled in the heart of The Venetian Resort’s bustling Restaurant Row, Yardbird Southern Table & Bar stands as a beacon of Southern hospitality on the Las Vegas Strip. Since its opening in 2015, this Miami import, created by restaurateur John Kunkel of 50 Eggs Hospitality Group, has carved out a reputation for delivering farm-fresh Southern classics with a modern twist. Known for its critically acclaimed fried chicken, extensive bourbon collection, and vibrant + vibrant atmosphere, Yardbird offers a dining experience that blends comfort food with sophistication, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. This SpotlightVegas.com article dives into the history, menu highlights, ambiance, service, and recent reviews of Yardbird, providing a comprehensive guide for anyone planning a visit.
A Southern Legacy in Sin City
Yardbird’s story began in Miami Beach, where John Kunkel’s vision of reimagining Southern cuisine took root. The Las Vegas location, opened in 2015, brought this vision to the desert, filling a gap in the city’s dining scene where authentic Southern fare was scarce. The restaurant’s commitment to using local and sustainable ingredients, paired with Kunkel’s knack for brand innovation, has earned Yardbird accolades from culinary giants like James Beard and Bon Appétit. Its Las Vegas outpost, located at 3355 Las Vegas Blvd S, is open daily for lunch and dinner (Monday–Friday 11:00 AM–11:00 PM, Saturday–Sunday 9:30 AM–11:00 PM), with a foot-stompin’ brunch on weekends.
The Venetian’s Restaurant Row, with its upscale yet accessible vibe, is the perfect home for Yardbird. The restaurant’s rustic-modern decor—think hardwood floors, exposed beams, and an open kitchen—creates a welcoming space that feels like a Southern dining room with a Vegas flair. The lively atmosphere, often described as a mix of honky-tonk and family gathering, sets the stage for a meal that’s as much about the experience as the food.
The Menu: Southern Classics, Elevated
Yardbird’s menu is a love letter to Southern cuisine, offering shared plates, hearty entrees, and inventive sides that celebrate tradition while embracing innovation. The star of the show is undoubtedly the fried chicken, brined for 27 hours and fried to golden perfection. Guests rave about its crispy skin, juicy meat, and perfect seasoning, with many calling it the best fried chicken in Las Vegas—and possibly the country. The signature Chicken ’n’ Watermelon ’n’ Waffles ($36) is a fan favorite, served with honey hot sauce, chilled spiced watermelon, and a Vermont sharp cheddar waffle drizzled with bourbon maple syrup. For those with dietary restrictions, Yardbird offers a gluten-free version, prepared in a dedicated fryer, which celiac diners praise for its safety and flavor.
Beyond the chicken, the menu is packed with crave-worthy dishes. The Fried Green Tomato BLT ($14) layers house-smoked pork belly, pimento cheese, and smoky tomato jam for a bold take on the classic sandwich. Shrimp ’n’ Grits and Lobster Mac & Cheese bring decadence to the table, while the Bourbon Glazed Short Rib with sweet potato puree offers a gluten-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Appetizers like Deviled Eggs with smoked trout roe or jalapeño bacon and Chicken Liver Toast with Fresno pepper relish showcase Yardbird’s playful approach to Southern staples. Vegetarians may find options limited, but sides like Crispy Brussels with spiced honey and Mac & Cheese with a five-cheese sauce and crispy herb crust are hearty enough to steal the show.
Brunch, served Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 AM, is a soul-healing affair. Highlights include Butter Pecan Pancakes, Crab Eggs Benedict, and Biscuit and Gravy, paired with cocktails like the Watermelon Sling or Peach Mimosa. The dessert menu, though small, delivers with classics like Banana Cream Pie and Crème Brûlée Waffles, the latter a gluten-free hit.
Yardbird’s beverage program is equally impressive. With one of the finest bourbon collections in the U.S., featuring over 60 standouts, it’s a haven for whiskey lovers. Cocktails like the Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade and Southern Peach Tea are refreshing and expertly crafted, while the 16-tap beer list focuses on Nevada brews, complemented by 70 U.S.-sourced bottles and cans. The wine list, though not as extensive, pairs well with the hearty fare.
Ambiance and Service: Southern Hospitality Meets Vegas Energy
Yardbird’s atmosphere is a draw in itself. The space is loud—sometimes too loud for intimate conversations—but most diners find the festive vibe engaging. The rustic-chic decor, with its wooden accents and open kitchen, creates a cozy yet upscale feel. The restaurant’s layout accommodates groups of all sizes, from intimate tables for two to private rooms for events of up to 300. Two projectors and five TVs offer branding opportunities for corporate gatherings, while the staff’s professional planning services make Yardbird a popular choice for celebrations.
Service is a standout, with servers like Dominic, Nate, Sarah, and Blake earning frequent praise for their knowledge, warmth, and attentiveness. Diners consistently highlight the staff’s ability to handle dietary needs, particularly for gluten-free guests. One celiac reviewer noted that their waiter walked them through the entire menu, ensuring a safe and delicious meal, even bringing regular maple syrup as a bourbon-free option. The manager’s regular check-ins and the host team’s precision add to the seamless experience. However, some reviews mention occasional lapses in promptness, particularly during peak hours, and a few diners have noted that the automatic gratuity for large parties can feel unexpected. Overall, the service is described as “phenomenal” and “perfect 10,” making Yardbird a place where Southern hospitality shines.
Recent Reviews: What Diners Are Saying
Yardbird enjoys a stellar reputation, with a 4.8-star rating from 8,665 OpenTable reviews and a 4.5-star rating from 2,520 Tripadvisor reviews, ranking it #77 of 3,906 Las Vegas restaurants. Guests praise the “amazing gluten-free fried chicken,” “enormous portions,” and “fantastic atmosphere.” The chicken and waffles, in particular, are a crowd-pleaser, with one diner calling it “better than any regular fried chicken I’ve ever had.” The lobster bisque, ribs, and deviled eggs also earn high marks for their rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
Recent reviews highlight memorable experiences, like a 2024 New Year’s Day dinner where a gluten-free diner enjoyed four large waffles and ample fried chicken, taking leftovers home. Another group of nine celebrated a birthday in 2025, describing the meal as “absolutely fantastic” with “lively yet comfortable” vibes. Diners also appreciate the restaurant’s consistency, with one reviewer noting, “I have to come here every time I’m in Vegas!”
Not every review is glowing. Some diners find the prices steep—a $25 chicken sandwich with no sides drew criticism—and a few have reported inconsistent food quality, like bland flavors or tough ribs. The loud ambiance can be a drawback for those seeking a quieter meal, and one 2024 review called the food “lukewarm” and “mediocre,” though such complaints are rare. Reservations are strongly recommended, as the restaurant’s popularity leads to long wait times without one.
Tips for Visiting Yardbird
To make the most of your Yardbird experience, consider these tips:
- Book Ahead: Use OpenTable or the restaurant’s website (runchickenrun.com) to secure a reservation, especially for brunch or dinner. Walk-ins are welcome but may face waits.
- Share Plates: Portions are generous, so splitting dishes like the “Whole Bird” or Chicken ’n’ Waffles is cost-effective and fun for groups.
- Go Gluten-Free with Confidence: Inform your server of any allergies; the staff is well-trained, and many dishes are marked gluten-free on the menu.
- Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3:00 PM–6:00 PM, offers deals on drinks and small plates, though times may vary.
- Dress Code: Casual elegant is the vibe—think smart casual to match the upscale yet relaxed setting.
- Parking: The Venetian offers free parking, but valet or rideshare is easier for Strip convenience.
Why Yardbird Stands Out
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar is more than a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Southern culture, culinary excellence, and Vegas showmanship. Its ability to balance nostalgic flavors with modern flair, paired with top-notch service and a lively atmosphere, makes it a standout on the Strip. Whether you’re craving the best fried chicken of your life, a bourbon-fueled night out, or a brunch that’ll leave you dreaming of waffles, Yardbird delivers. For locals and visitors alike, it’s a place where every bite tells a story, and every visit feels like coming home—Southern style.
