Shimp cocktails have been a staple dish in Las Vegas for a long time, and historically, have been offered at rock-bottom prices.
Famously, Du-Par’s at Golden Gate served a delicious and inexpensive shrimp cocktail for decades before closing in 2017. Since the closure, many have been left wondering where a cheap shrimp cocktail can still be found in Vegas.
I took it upon myself recently to sniff out the remaining affordable shrimp cocktail options in town, with one being as low as $2.
While many claim that “cheap” and “shrimp” don’t belong in the same sentence, I decided it was worth risking my well-being for the mission.
On Fremont Street
Lanai Express at Fremont
Lanai Express serves a wide-ranging array of both Asian and American fare making it quite the jack of all trades.
Among their most popular items is a $2.99 shrimp cocktail.
Lanai’s shrimp cocktail was what one would expect at the price point. It consisted of tiny shrimp in what I deemed to be an overwhelming bath of cocktail sauce.
The fact that the shrimp cocktail was served in a plastic solo cup with tin foil covering the top didn’t add to its appeal.
Was it worth $2.99? Yes. Will I buy it again? Probably not.
If you’re looking for some cheap protein, this could be a good option. Personally, I plan to spend up on a higher quality product in the future… Unless I’m intoxicated, of course.
On The Strip
Slots A Fun
Recently, John Mehaffey tweeted exciting news that Slots A Fun was serving a $2 shrimp cocktail as part of an effort to reinvigorate the property.
For those keeping score at home, Slots A Fun’s shrimp cocktail is now the cheapest in Las Vegas.
I recently stopped in to try it, and found it to be pretty darn decent! There were 6 total shrimp, and the cocktail sauce was delicious.
In addition to a cheap shrimp cocktail, Slots A Fun is also selling $2 hot dogs, popcorn, and draft beer.
Near the Strip
The Villiage Pub at Ellis Island
Located behind Horseshoe just off the Strip, Ellis Island is a short 10-15 minute walk from the Strip.
While I typically choose to visit Ellis Island for cheap craft beer, lower table game limits, or to watch karaoke, they also have a relatively cheap $9.99 shrimp cocktail on the Villiage Pub and Cafe menu that I found to be worth the price.
This shrimp cocktail mixed larger chopped celery with chopped shrimp, all topped with a cocktail sauce that was tasty, although lacked the spice I enjoyed at Circa.
While I don’t particularly enjoy celery and fully understand it’s being used as a cost-saving filler, I actually enjoyed its cool, crunchy, refreshing presence in the cocktail. If you stop into Ellis, it’s worth a try!
Hopefully, I was able to help point you in the direction of a Shrimp Cocktail that doesn’t break the bank.
Of the options above, Ellis Island’s was my favorite, while Slots A Fun’s was the best value and pretty darn good for the price.
See Also: Let us help you find the loosest slots in Vegas by leveraging data from the Nevada Gaming Commission.
I’m a former software salesman turned Vegas aficionado. While the craps table is my preferred habitat, I pull myself away to explore new attractions, shows, restaurants, and outdoor activities around Las Vegas with the intent of sharing my experiences.
Ultimately, I just want to help folks plan a better trip and save a few bucks in the process.