It may look unassuming from the outside, but inside Tarantino’s Vegan  (7960 S. Rainbow Blvd.) has created a plant-based oasis. The newly opened fast-casual restaurant in Las Vegas marks the city’s first all-vegan Italian restaurant and the first vegan restaurant to open in 2020. Although the spot is fast-casual, expect gorgeous dishes meticulously plated, plus a gorgeous selection of authentic Italian desserts, all veganized.

The idea came only a few months ago

Tarantino’s was just an idea Sarah and Mike Tarantino had a few months ago. The husband-and-wife team, who have worked in the restaurant and beverage industry for more than two decades, dreamed of opening their own restaurant.

In February, that dream came true, thanks in part to some of their family member’s contributions.

“All of our restaurant items were created with love in our home’s kitchen,” says Sarah, who spends most of her time at home with their five children. “I have always loved the culture and went full vegan a few years ago. Michael started transitioning his recipes to plant-based and it’s been his mission to create quality healthy food that is consistent with what he has cooked his whole life, but made completely with plants.”

Buon appetito!

The mission of Tarantino’s is simple: to create a delicious menu that everyone will love.

Michael has done this, tapping into his Italian roots to serve his vegan take on everything from pasta with spicy Italian sausage (homemade, natch), to flatbreads, chicken and eggplant parm and even lasagna (bonus: they’ve got it gluten-free, too). Sourcing locally whenever possible, Michael makes nearly everything in house with the exception of a few meat and cheese products.

And, to finish off the meal, there’s a case filled with pastries and cookies … all entirely plant-based.

“It’s our hope that we can assist in showcasing plant-based foods that are traditional classics without compromising taste,” she says. “I believe one of our proudest moments thus far is when a vegan brings in a non-vegan and they love our food. It makes our heart happy knowing that we can be among a fabulous vegan community.”