With restaurants in NYC, Denver and San Francisco, Richard Sandoval is recognized as one of America's most vibrant chefs by Esquire and the New York Times. Now, he's moved into Vegas at the all-grown-up Treasure Island.

With unique art, wrought iron accents, dark earthy hues and vibrant colors, Isla is a combination of Vegas's high energy and Sandoval's passion for modern Mexico. The crowd is young, hungry and ready to party before hitting the tables; the menu is full of traditional dishes like tacos, tamales and burritos, all served with modern flair. Some of the best dishes are listed under "Grandma Sandoval's Kitchen," like the succulent roask pork with pumpkin seed sauce.

A wall of colorful tequila bottles separates the bar from the dining room--there are more than 80 different kinds on the list. You can get flights to try several kinds, complete with the traditional sangrita chaser (no, not lime and salt) and spears of cooling cucumber and jicama. Prices are very reasonable, but if you want to go hog wild, the Patron Platinum is $30 a shot and the Chinaco Reserve, aged for seven years, is $53.