Haute Top 5: The Best Bakeries in Las Vegas in 2017

Jean Philippe Patisserie at Aria lacks the floor-to-ceiling chocolate fountain of their Bellagio location, but features plentiful seating for fascinating people watching. The dessert oasis right in the middle of Aria's casino floor features a full menu from a single, artisan chocolate bite to lunch spot favorites. They'll even pack meals to-go in airline friendly packaging. But it's the shifting variety of expertly crafted desserts poised behind the glass cases, that pull the players from gambling steps away. The added gelato and crepe choices make a single visit an impossibility.

The legendary name of chef Thomas Keller isn't only attached to his revered Bouchon Bistro. Off the Venetian's casino floor, Bouchon Bakery tempts with sweet and savory treats that aren't just for breakfast. Choose from croissants, muffin or a lemon tart, or gravitate to fulfiiling soups and sandwiches. Don't forget to pick up at least one macaroon for a late afternoon pick-me-up.

No one does cupcakes better than Retro Bakery. Look for tasty combinations such as salted caramel crunch, a coconut cake and the namesake Retro that's much like a chocolate cupcake from Hostess, only better. The glazed doughnut comes drenched in glaze while the milk and cookies features a giant cookie on top. You’ll definitely eat one cupcake before you get home.

A mainstay at Las Vegas weddings or celebrity parties, Freed's has notched half a century of serving the city. Expectational design and fast turn-around make them a trusted source for cakes to impress. Mini-pastries like apple turnovers or elephant ears, join cookies in rounding out a smaller bite dessert menu. The store even features individual cakes slices cut from their roster of famous wedding and extravagantly inspired cakes.

A hidden treasure at the The M Resort. Temptation might sway you toward the pastries, cakes, or gelato, but the cupcakes will probably win your heart. Unusual twists on mini-desserts include the "Orange Chocolate" with diced candied orange, ganache and milk chocolate mousse or their hit creation, the red velvet cupcake with cream cheese frosting. Nine cupcake options are hand crafted every day.