La Monja, a Mexican restaurant with a fish market feel, has opened in downtown Las Vegas, two blocks east of most of the Fremont Street partying. 
Located in an older hotel, Fergusons, it has been completely remodeled and landscaped. Gone are the hotel rooms, and instead is this great new La Monja with both indoor and outdoor seating. 
Done with plenty of bright colors and a large pig roasting spit, the food is terrific. We had, of course, the pork tacos, ceviche sides, and potato-like dumplings. This being said, I had to sample one of each of the three premier margaritas.
Chef Noel Flores has taken over this kitchen. La Monja relies more on coastal seafood with low prices, fewer burritos and tacos, and more ceviches. 
Las Vegas native Flores started in the restaurant world when at the age of 16, he began an apprenticeship with famous chef Jose Andres. He went on to work with Aitor Zabala, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger, and Lorena Garcia. Heading to Mexico City to become a stagiere for Jorge Vallejo’s restaurant, Quintonil; Flores then returned to Las Vegas to open Meso Tortillas.
Las Vegas Fremont Street and the overhead canopy of lights is a fun spot to spend one evening when you are in town. 
Take a walk and you will uncover numerous unique venues including the Mob Museum, the Speakeasy below it, and the infamous El Cortez.
