It's a requirement under NRS 463.1605 that any property carrying an unrestricted gaming license (i.e., one that enables a property to operate both gambling machines -- and in excess of 15 of them -- and table games and a race and sports book, in a county whose population is 100,000 or more) should offer a 24-hour eatery, but traditionally this was a role fulfilled by the casino coffee shop, as opposed to a buffet. We can understand why for logistical reasons: A good buffet offers fresh food at all times and, in order to avoid major wastage, this is dependent upon rapid turnover. Even in Vegas, not many people are looking for a sit-down meal at 4 in the morning, so there just isn't the clientele to justify offering an array of prepared food around the clock.
In recent years, however, even coffee shops suffered, and many casinos axed this facility, with a few apparently even becoming non-compliant with the above-quoted regulation for awhile. In the vast majority of cases, however, you will find that any resort-casino here offers dining around the clock, with restaurant schedules dovetailing to avoid any down time. Check out the Late Night listings in our "Restaurants" section for a list of eateries that are either open 24/7, or at least past midnight, including hotel restaurants and an array off-Strip options that are well worth checking out for late-night munchies, including many in Chinatown.
